[TowerTalk] Fwd: Re: Tri-Ex winch problem

[Bob Richards]

-------- Forwarded Message --------
Subject: 	Re: [TowerTalk] Tri-Ex winch problem
Date: 	Sat, 14 Oct 2017 09:28:01 -0700
From: 	Bob Richards <rwrcon at mindspring.com>
Reply-To: 	bob at rwrconsult.com
To: 	DAVE WRIGHT <kanives at yahoo.com>



Hi Dave,  I just installed a new Tashjian W-51 crank up tower which came
with 2 Fulton K 1550 winches, one for tip over and the other for
cranking up and down.  I replaced them both.  As I'm sure you've seen
the K 1550 is a single speed with a gear ratio of only about 5:1.  The K
1550 got the tower up and down with considerable effort before
installing the mast, rotator and beams.  It couldn't handle the extra
weight of the mast, etc. once installed.  This included the clutch
binding you're experiencing. Same problem with the tip over once the
mast etc. was installed. Once you resolve getting your tower unstuck I
suggest you consider replacing your K 1550 with a 2 speed racheting
winch.  I installed a Dayton 2 speed which gives me about a 17:1 ratio
for up and down and an older Fulton 2 speed racheting winch gives me
about  a 9:1 ratio.  Once cranked up I lock the cranking handle in case
the ratchet slips.  No clutch binding issues and much easier on the arms.

I you do decide to stick with the K 1550 winches I have 2 virtually new
ones in my garage that are for sale.

Bob  NZ6G


On 10/14/2017 8:44 AM, DAVE WRIGHT via TowerTalk wrote:
> Greetings,
>
> I'm having a problem w/my winch on my Tri-Ex LM-354 tower. The stock hand-winch is "stuck" & will not move "downward."
> Apparently the friction clutch has stuck as it has not been moved much over the last several years. It does move UP just fine. But when I try to go down, it refuses to move; even when great strength is applied.
> I've only managed to get it to move an inch or two after several tries. I fear if I try too hard it may suddenly just come totally "free" & the tower will "fall" all the way to the nested position, likey damaging the tower.
> Should I continue to try to "force-it" down & take the chance of it falling? Or should I try to "lever" or "jack"  it past the "hard-spot?"
> I likely will replace it after this problem is solved. No sense taking more chances. I really appreciate any suggestions you may have. BTW, Tashijan Tower has the part listed on their price/part listing as below:
>
> | K1550 Fulton Winch  | 041-0335  | 20 | $165.00 |
>
>
>
> Thank you,
> Dave K6JOX
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