Ratchet Lever Hoists

There are some further names a ratchet lever hoist can be referred to as; they are a lever hoist or a puller hoist. They are a frequently utilised tool for lifting and tensioning tasks.

Ratchet lever hoist's are frequently utilised for tensioning utility lines/power cables, moving and the placement of heavy plant machinery, pipe setting, holding items in a certain position for repairs etc. And in many cases for pulling out tree stumps; as it is easy to see they have got an exceptionally wide variety of uses and are especially beneficial in industrial areas, car garages and forestry applications.

Let us now look more thoroughly at the basic workings of a lever hoist. Ratchet and pawl systems are generally used within a lever hoist, the ratchet will be the wheel or gear that the chain rolls over and the pawl is either a hinged or pivoted catch (typically spring controlled)  which engages about the teeth of the gear/ratchet to prevent it slipping in the other direction to which it is being pulled.  The lever or control handle is pushed and pulled up then down which turns the chain over the gear wheel to raise the load gradually; the more you crank the handle the more it's going to lift up. By the flick of a switch the process is reversed and so therefore will lower the load.

A ratchet lever hoist will typically possess a chain release device to allow the chain to be pulled out freely to the length required to fix to a load. They will also have a top hook to fix the hoist to some secure fixing point, and there will be a hook with safety catch at the end of the chain to attach to the load itself.

Using a ratchet lever hoist will have scores of benefits, their lightweight design means they are easy to move about, and the small versions will easily fit into a large tool box. Lever hoists are easy to use and maintain and re-chain if required. Ratchet lever hoists are an incredibly versatile tool as they can be utilized in almost any position, with just about any length of chain, they're also advantageous where there is no electricity. Usually found with lifting capacities up to 10,000 kgs they are excellent for numerous operations.

Here is a step-by-step guide to using a ratchet lever hoist; Watch a how to video here.

1, attach the hoist to a suitable and secure fixing point by means of its top hook.

2; Advance out the chain to the length needed to attach to the load by employing the free chaining facility

3, following safe slinging practices, you can now connect the load, ensuring it is going to be as evenly balanced as possible by positioning the sling about the centre of gravity.

4; Push the lever setting to the up or raise setting

5, raise the lever/handle all the way up then all the way back down again, continuing this cranking movement until the load reaches the desired position.

6; By placing the switch to the lower or down position after which pushing and pulling the lever, the load will now lower.

7; Now the load is securely rested, you may remove any sling or chain from around the load, your job is complete.

To use a ratchet lever hoist safely you must always follow manufacturers instructions, safety procedures and safe slinging practices, next we have highlighted a few of the fundamental procedures to follow at all times.

ALWAYS:

Examine and check for defects on a regular basis, and the brake before each use;

Make sure the bottom chain hook can get to the lowest position required without entirely running out.

Keep the chain oiled, however the brake must be clean and free from grease.

You should NEVER;

Attempt to lengthen the lever handle

Swap the chain for an extended one before consulting the provider

Use if any chain links are damaged or distorted in any way, Use if the safe working load markings are unreadable.

Most significantly make sure you have your lever hoists tested and inspected regularly, this is a necessity.

In conclusion then a ratchet lever hoist offers a versatile, lightweight and easy to use piece of lifting equipment that no industrial workers van/toolbox ought to be without.