California residents see PROP 65 WARNINGS
Stainless Steel Internal Halyard Flagpole Winch
This gearless winch, also known as the West Winch, raises and lowers the flag on internal halyard flagpoles. Cast bronze internal brakes release only when the handle is inserted and turned. Remove the handle and the brake engages, locking the flag at any height. The winch is built in stainless steel and made in the USA. See Made in the USA.
Choosing the Drum Size
If you are replacing an existing winch, match the drum size you have. If you don't know it, choose by flagpole height.
| Size | Drum (Spool) | Width | End Flange | Mounting | Flagpole Height | MPN |
| Standard | 1 1/2" | 2 1/2" (2 15/16" at center bushing) | 4 1/4" square | 2 holes, 3 1/2" centers | Up to 45' | 360047 |
| Large | 2" | 3" (3 7/16" at center bushing) | 4 1/4" square | 2 holes, 3 1/2" centers | 45' to 80' | 360048 |
| X-Large | 5" | 6" (6 7/16" at center bushing) | 4 1/4" square | 4 slots, 3 1/2" centers | Over 80' | 360049 |
X-Large spool capacity: The maximum recommended capacity, meaning the most cable that can safely fit and wind onto the XL drum, is 135' of 1/8" cable. This includes a minimum of five "dead wraps" that must always remain on the spool.
Dimensional Cutsheets
Installation Notes
The West Winch is designed to be used in flagpoles for raising and lowering flags securely. We recommend high-quality 1/8" cable on this winch, and our handle as the means of raising and lowering the flag.
Use the spool screw provided with the winch. The screw in the spool that tightens against the cable end, or "stop," must be the one supplied with the winch. The length of this screw is critical. A longer screw will disable the braking mechanism, and the winch will not function properly.
Check the cable stop size. If the cable end or "stop" is large enough to tighten against the axle when the screw is tightened, the braking system will likely malfunction. The axle is the tube visible when you look into the spool cable end slot, near the screw.
Make sure both mounting bolts are tight and stay tight.
Lubrication and Cleaning
Lubrication
We recommend high-quality light machine oil. Add it liberally to the space between the brake drum and spool while rotating the winch with the handle. Lubricate monthly.
Cleaning
For proper cleaning, we recommend that an experienced flagpole installation and maintenance company remove the winch from the pole, clean it, and re-install it.
The winch can be cleaned by carefully flushing the braking area with kerosene while rotating it with the handle. Once it is clean, drain the excess kerosene. Re-oil the winch before using it.
Operating and Maintenance Rules
Lack of lubrication, the wrong spool screw, and an oversized cable end cause the majority of winch issues that come to our attention.
- Never operate the winch "dry." Lack of proper lubrication is one of the main causes of malfunctions.
- Do not use brake cleaner to clean the winch. It is extremely drying.
- Never lubricate with anything that contains silicone.
- Never use graphite to lubricate.
- Use the proper handle to operate the winch.
- Maintain a firm grip on the handle when it is installed in the winch.
- Do not operate in windy or stormy weather, or when lightning is possible.
As always, remove the flag before expected storms and high winds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which drum size do I need?
If you are replacing a winch, match your existing drum size. Otherwise, choose by flagpole height: Standard (1 1/2" drum) for poles up to 45', Large (2" drum) for 45' to 80', and X-Large (5" drum) for poles over 80'.
Is the winch handle included?
No. The Winch Handle is sold separately and is required to operate the winch. One handle fits all three sizes.
Are mounting bolts included?
No. The winch mounts with two 5/16"-18NC stainless steel bolts on 3 1/2" centers. All sizes use two bolts.
What cable should I use, and how much fits on the drum?
Use high-quality 1/8" stainless steel cable. The X-Large drum holds a maximum of 135' of 1/8" cable, including a minimum of five dead wraps that must always stay on the spool.
What lubricant should I use?
Use high-quality light machine oil, applied monthly between the brake drum and spool while turning the handle. Never use silicone-based lubricants or graphite, and do not clean with brake cleaner.
Why is my winch slipping or not holding the flag?
The most common causes are lack of lubrication, a spool screw other than the one supplied with the winch, and a cable end or "stop" large enough to tighten against the axle. Each of these can prevent the brake from engaging properly.
Is this winch made in the USA?
Yes. See Made in the USA.
Questions about your winch? Contact us.