Lewis Winch
The Lewis Winch is a handy tool for moving small logs for firewood, cleaning out a stream, or building a log house. Hunters also like it for pulling in big game animals. It has hundreds of uses, because it can be used anywhere you can take a chain saw.
The winch weighs only twenty pounds (not counting the cable or saw motor) and is designed to pack a lot of power in a small spot. Pulling capacity depends on the size of the saw you use for power, but maximum single line pull is about 4000 lbs. If this isn't enough, its pull can be doubled by using a snatch block and doubling back. We usually recommend powering the winch with a modern saw with an engine size of 3.0 cu.in. or larger.
How To Attach A Lewis Winch To A Chainsaw Engine
Saw engines can be attached two ways: On saws with an external clutch, the winch is connected by using a short guide bar and cutter-less chain. It simply bolts on to the bar pad like a guide bar. On saws with an internal clutch, the direct connection works best. Power from the clutch spline is coupled directly to the winch. No chain or bar is necessary with this type of connection. This also eliminates the need for chain oiling.
The Lewis winch is available in several configurations, but the version we carry comes with 150' of 3/16" aircraft cable. It also comes with all the adapters to fit your saw (engine) including the direct connection for saws with internal clutches and the the short bar cutter less chain for saws with external clutches. The snatch block and tree-saver strap (shown) are available at extra cost.
Standard equipment also includes a brake for stopping or holding the drum. This is actuated by pulling on a handle. Tension on the brake band is controlled by the handle position. When engaged, the drum rotates when the saw's clutch engages. When the saw idles (the chain is not moving), the drums stops. When the winch is in a hard pull, the drum will turn backwards when engaged, but can be held with the brake. The drum can also be released for free-spooling.
How To Secure The Winch To An Object
The winch is secured on a mounting point under the gearbox (not shown). This allows the winch to be secured to a solid object, like the stump of a tree. Hunters report the best way to pull most animals is to hook the winch up backwards (to how most people would think to do it). By hooking the winch to the animal and the end of the cable to where you want to pull, It is easier to control the animal's speed and direction -- guiding it away from rocks, stumps, or brush. Most people never think of hooking up a chain saw winch this way because they are not used to the flexibility of a Lewis winch.
A Lewis winch is a versatile tool and can be used in many ways. If you've got a spare saw, its a great way to turn it into a powerful pulling tool. Used occasionally, it will serve you for many years.
The Benefits of Chainsaw Engine Power
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A gas powered winch excels for pulls in rough terrain where vehicle access is difficult or impossible
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A winch powered by a chainsaw engine is not tied to a vehicle's engine or battery and is not affected by its running condition
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A chainsaw powered winch can easily be carried by hand, in a back pack, or in a vehicle or boat
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When not in use, a portable chainsaw winch can be locked up and stored away from thieves and the elements
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With chainsaw engine power, loads can be pulled long distances or continually without overheating the motor or loss of pulling power