[TheOtherMe]

I was looking at this winch for putting my hardtop on/off. Anyone ever use one? I'm unfamiliar with worm drives and was wondering if they will hold the load in place once lifted until it can be secured by other means.

http://www.harborfreight.com/2000-lb-capacity-geared-winch-5798.html

 

[shadowulf]

Oh ya, I used one for my hadtop lift. it is "self braking" of sorts. Sure keeps the top in the air until I can tighten the "holding straps" on. I even hook up one of my 1/2" drills to it to speed things up a bit. Just remembe4, it is not a hoist. Your top prolly maxes out the safe load limit for that use

 

[UnlimitedMatt]

That looks like the one I use except my handle was on the side. It is very slow but it doesn't bother me since I only use it twice a year. I ended up removing the handle due to the way I mounted it to the wall. I welded the nut back on and use a 1/2 drive ratchet as the handle. Once the roof is where I store it, I use heavy duty straps to secure it to the ceiling.

 

[TheOtherMe]

Just remembe4, it is not a hoist. Your top prolly maxes out the safe load limit for that use

It states it's rated for 2,000 lbs., is that only for inline pulling? If so, how do you calculate the lifting capability?

 

[shadowulf]

Riggers safety ratio is 20% of rating, if I remember right. Depends on the cable too.

I've used mine for about 2 years with no problems.
Just make sure you have it and any pulleys/frame anchored well, and dont use it to hold the load for a long period of time. Mount some eyes/hooks to secure it when its in the air.