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Mounting a Capstan Hoist to a Pole, Tower, or Beam with the Chain Bracket

Capstan hoists revolutionized the art of lifting and rigging. What used to have to be done by hand or with complicated rigs that utilized truck power can now be done with a lightweight single unit piece. The capacity of the capstan depends on the model that you get and depending on the capacity, the way that you secure the hoist may be different. This week our Gear ExpertsÂ® are going to break down how to mount a capstan to a pole, tower, or beam with the chain bracket.

Chain Bracket vs. Swivel Mount vs. Straight Mount

Before we go over how to mount a capstan with the chain bracket itâ€™s important to outline the other options, when each is appropriate, and why you would use the chain bracket. The three main mounting options are a chain bracket, swivel mount, and straight mount. The straight mount and swivel mount bracket fit onto the hitch of a truck, while the chain bracket is attached to a pole, tower, or beam. The straight mount bracket can be used when you have easy straight access to your rigging location. The downside? It doesnâ€™t have the ability to change direction without moving the vehicle it is attached to. If you think moving direction might be something youâ€™ll need to do while on the job site, then the swivel bracket may be better suited for your rig setup. The chain bracket is similar to the straight mount bracket due to flexibility being limited. However, the chain bracket can handle more weight. In fact, the chain mount bracket is the ONLY bracket that can be used in combination with the 3,000 lb Capstan Hoist.

Pole Mounting

Mounting the hoist on a pole is a simple process that can be done in just a few minutes. Before beginning to mount the hoist the first step is to open the binder as far as possible by turning the handle counter-clockwise. The bolts in the chain tubes should be removed to allow the tubes to pivot. Next, place the chain over the top of the drum of the capstan and hold the hoist against the pole. It is recommended that you hold the capstan against the pole with your leg so that you have both hands free for the next steps. Next, Wrap the chain around the pole and hook them into the slots on the bracket. The final step is to turn the binders clockwise to tighten the connection of the hoist to the pole. ** Please note that after a heavy initial load you may need to re-tighten the binders.

Tower/Beam Mounting

The majority of steps for tower/beam mounting of the hoist are the same as pole mounting. However, there is one main difference. That difference is making sure that the two bolts located at the wheel tightener end of the chain binders have been secured in place through both the binders and the bracket. If secured correctly a 90Â° angle should be created between the chain binders and the bracket. This 90Â° angle allows the hoist to be mounted to square surfaces like those found on a tower/beam. After the angle has been created the remaining steps in the pole mounting section can be followed. Looking for more information about capstan hoists or mounting options? Click here to contact one of our Gear ExpertsÂ®. â†’ Click here to see the 1,000 LB Capstan Hoist â†’ Click here to see the 3,000 LB Capstan Hoist â†’ Click here to see our selection of capstan mounting brackets â†’ Click here to see our entire selection of lifting & rigging gear **The content of this blog is not intended to replace proper, in-depth training. Manufacturerâ€™s instructions must also be followed and reviewed before any equipment is used.