portable winches

[sapman]

I remember a thread talking about portable winches, but don't see a title by that name. Just wondering if anyone uses one, and has recommendations on brand, size, cable/rope length,etc.

Thanks,
Tim

[upsmapleman]

I have had a Farm I Winch for years.No complaints. The first I bought used which had seen a lot of service. I abused it even more. It got a little loose and the cable would sometimes jump the drum. I sold it at a auction and bought new about 5 years ago and use it a lot getting out fire wood and logs.I have over 500 acres of woodland so there is no shortage of trees to skid out. I use it on a 60 hp 4wd JD and I can skid a pretty good pile to a time. There web site is www.farmiwinch.com

[BreezyHill]

Farmi here also. 290 I think is the model. Great on a 65 4wd tractor and ok on a 50hp 2wd.

Cable...7/16 swedged has been the best. fit 175' in the drum. We have three chain locks and deep end hook that can do two chains. Slots for 7 on the lock rail. Don't like to draw logs with the cable due to breaking the cable issues.

It is very handy to have a power corner that will allow the cable to pop out when the chain hooks get there...rather than walk to it and unhook it and pull the cable out. get it on the 2" web sling so as to not damage trees.

Mine pulls from high point but the newer ones that have a pulley down near the log hook point are safer. Nice to be able to pull on top of the pile as I do.

Great for pulling down hung trees and cleaning wind damage.

Good Luck!

[sapman]

I appreciate the replies. I was actually referring to the portable winches, run by a little gas motor. I'm thinking it would be perfect for areas where I can't get close with truck or tractor. Although, I know you can reach quite a ways with the tractor winches.

Thanks

[David in MI]

I think one of the so-called "chainsaw winches" would work for your application. I can't be of much help as I don't know much about them but a quick google search brought up one called the Lewis winch. I've often thought something like this would be really useful for a number of applications.

[sapman]

I just looked at them online this morning. Seems like they would do what I'm looking for. Definitely need two saws to make it work, or I'd spend all day switching back and forth when felling trees.