> > Lets say that a winch is rated at "9000lbs single line pull".
> >
> > Does this mean that the winch (if so used) would be directly capable
> > of lifting 4.5 tons?
> >
>
> Yes. Some caveats, though. First, winches are not rated for overhead
> lifting. So you don't want to do that, generally.
>
> Second, the rated pull is only available on the first wrap of cable
> around the drum. On the subsequent wraps, pulling power is markedly
> reduced.
One other thing to check ... winches are sometimes sold where the cable is
rated for less than the "first wrap" pulling power of the winch.
Best practice is to have the cable rated at least 1.5 times the maximum pull
you expect to encounter, since they do weaken with use.
Randall
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