Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a gear-driven cargo winch?
- A cargo tie-down winch tensioned by turning a handle against a gear set rather than by levering a steel winch bar against the drum. Ours use a 22:1 worm gear, so working tension is reached with roughly 40 lb of force at the handle and nothing is inserted into the drum.
- What is the working load limit?
- 6,600 lb (3,000 kg) on every winch model in the range. That is the figure used in the aggregate calculation under 49 CFR 393.106(d).
- Why is the tensioning limit 2.5 tons when the working load limit is 6,600 lb?
- They describe different moments. Tensioning force is how hard you pull while tightening the strap; working load limit is what the assembly is rated to hold once secured. Over-tensioning does not increase the working load limit, it just stresses the gear set.
- Which winch fits my trailer?
- It depends on the cargo track already fitted. C-channel track takes the Double C Slider; L-track takes the Double L Slider. Decks with no track at all take the weld-on model, which mounts to the frame rail. The two track profiles are not interchangeable, so measure before ordering.
- Can I use a normal winch bar with these?
- No. Tensioning is done with the winch handle or ratchet wrench, which fit the 24.8 mm gear socket. Using a pipe, cheater bar, or impact tool can damage the gear set and voids the warranty.
- The small handwheel will not turn. Is the winch faulty?
- Almost certainly not. The locking teeth are loaded and cannot move. Turn the big handwheel slightly in either direction to relieve them, then pull the small handwheel, turn it to the lock or release position, and let it go. This is the most commonly reported issue and it is normal behaviour.
- How do I tell whether a winch is locked?
- Look at the gap between the small handwheel and the gear body. A small gap means locked; a large gap with the handwheel standing clear means released. The state can be read during a walk-around without touching the winch.
- How many winches does my trailer need?
- Two independent tests apply and a load must pass both. The aggregate working load limit of all tie-downs must be at least half the article weight under 49 CFR 393.106(d), and 49 CFR 393.110 sets a minimum count based on article length and weight regardless of capacity. The count rule often decides the answer on long articles.
- Do you sell directly to fleets?
- No. We are a manufacturer and supply distributors, trailer OEMs, and fleet equipment suppliers. If you operate trucks, email us with your location and we will point you to a distributor who stocks the models you want.
- Do you publish prices?
- No. Distributors set their own retail pricing, and landed cost in the US varies with tariffs and freight. For wholesale terms, contact us with the models and annual volume you have in mind.
- Can you private-label the winches?
- Yes, at volume. Branding, finish, and packaging can all be specified. Packing is 120 units per pallet, and terms are FOB Ningbo or DDP with 30/70 T/T payment.
- What grease should be used, and what temperature range is it good for?
- Showa Shell Alvania RA-J, rated from -40 F to 266 F (-40 C to 130 C). Valvoline Full Synthetic Moly Fortified grease is an accepted alternative.
Still need an answer?
Technical questions go to sales@cnbwinch.com. Longer reference material is under operating instructions and compliance.