Are electric sheet winches bi-directional?

[Otter]

Do they only power in and you trim out by hand as usual on a self tailer? Or is it one button for in and one button for out? We're considering fitting one for our single winch conversion. Thanks.

 

[prv]

Some are, some aren't.

The original ones just motorised the standard action, so you'd motor it in but let out as usual. Then, to allow full remote-control from the helm, they invented ones which could wind in or out.

One-way ones are more commonly seen; I imagine the two-way variety are more expensive.

Pete

 

[Dave-Shafa]

One-way ones are more commonly seen; I imagine the two-way variety are more expensive.
Pete

I am particularly interested in the Bi-Directional expensive wenches.

 

[ditchcrawler]

I am sure you know about it , but the WinchRite cordless winch handle is first class and operates in both directions with the flick of a switch.I use mine on my single speed 16ST and my twin speed ST40s.
I have had mine for 4 seasons now and find it first class.
I apologise if you are set on an electric winch.

PS I am in SYH so you could try it yourself.

 

[Otter]

Thanks - does it actually spin in both directions? I thought it was just twin speed in one direction.

 

[Otter]

Ooops - I see it's reversible. Now if I could lock that in place and wire in a remote switch.....

 

[prv]

Thanks - does it actually spin in both directions? I thought it was just twin speed in one direction.

If you think about it, you'll realise they are the same thing, at least for a standard two-speed winch. And neither will allow the winch to pay out, you need a dedicated reversible motorised winch for that.

Something like:

Pete

 

[Otter]

Ah, you're right, I've thought about it. Dang. So anyone have a reversible electric winch for sale

 

[lpdsn]

Do they only power in and you trim out by hand as usual on a self tailer? Or is it one button for in and one button for out? We're considering fitting one for our single winch conversion. Thanks.

Mine are certainly two-speed winding in. Just like a two-speed manual winch, the motor runs the other way for a lower gearing.

 

[Adamastor]

Harken Rewind Winches.
Based on their Radial winches.
Very good- I used to sell them, but limited in their application. It's the old cost/value question...