Re: Are you considering a lowering and lifting dev
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I have no experience with the Hobbs, but would be curious to hear comments from Hobbs users on the question: Is rope jamming a common problem with this device?
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I have used both devices, for many years. In fact I learned tree work using the Hobbs.
However, once the GRCS was introduced I bought one and never looked back.
To answer your question, the Hobbs does a great job of fairleading the rope into and out of the drum.
As does the GRCS.
But with both devices, proper handling of the ropes is essential. For example, when lowering loads the operator stands at a distance from the device and is allowing the load to 'run' (thereby reducing the shock loading effect), the rope can develop slack between the operator's hands and the device.
This slack can cause the rope to 'jump' and create a wrap on the drum.
Both the Hobbs & the GRCS have developed fairlead systems to overcome this. However no device can overcome improper use.
A great feature of the GRCS is that the design of it allows the operator to re-position the unit away from the landing zone so your out of the way of the loads and thus able to safely operate the unit by standing as close as you want to.
Also the 'pig-tail' fairlead allows the operator to stand in any direction from the tree/unit, and, stand as far away from the device as the rope will allow.
I dont recommend ANYONE use these devices without proper training.
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But we overcome that by using a big, reversible Milwaukee drill. Now we can use the GRCS in a more crane-like way. It saves a great amount of effort--less bending, less dragging, less lifting. We love it.
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The drill feature is fantastic! I use a 3000 watt ultra quiet honda generator for those places with no available power.
DO NOT USE AN IMPACT DRILL! Not a good idea at all. The Milwaukee drill works just fine for me. but the gas powered drills are very slow.
-WARNING-
HERE IS A SHAMELESS PROMOTING OF THE GRCS.
I like the GRCS, I have met the inventor, and I call him my friend. However, if I thought the GRCS was in anyway inferior to any other lifting and lowering device, I would not promote it. Furthermore, I am not paid to promote the GRCS. I just feel that it is a superior tree tool that is an essential tool for any tree service.
So here goes:
This drill feature is only one of the many reasons for my personal choice of the GRCS. The Hobbs just cannot compete with this superior technology in my opinion.
Here are a few more reasons:
-Truck mount. Mounts in any towing receiver. So it can be mounted anywhere you weld a receiver on the truck. Even the side if you want. Portable Purchase Point!
-Drill feature. Effortlessly lift loads, haul a climber to the top of the tree, haul the rescue dummy on aerial rescue training exercises, or haul up tools to the climber
-True one man operation. The GRCS is designed and engineered so that ONE (1) person can EASILY operate the device.
-Self tailing. This means that you can instantly lock off a load. This allows ONE (1) person to lift loads with no hassles whatsoever. No tying the rope onto the drum so you can lift the load. No having one person hold the rope tight on the drum so another can crank up the load. No heavy truckers bar to operate the drum. Simply a light composite handle which locks and unlocks onto the end of the drum.
- Two speed winch. The handle on the GRCS can be turned in BOTH directions. The winch has a gear reduction so turning it one way is very fast, and turning it the other way results in massive torque to lift even a car off the ground if you really want.
-Choice of two (2) different drums and both are included in the purchase price of the GRCS. One drum which is the two speed winch, and one fixed alum. drum which has a massive diameter which allows you to drop even the largest loads and reduce glazing because the drum is made out of thick alum. tubing. The diameter is larger than even the largest portawrap commercially available.
- Lighter and easier to carry/transport and mount on the tree. This is because by sliding out one pin, the drum is separated from the base plate. MUCH easier and lighter to mount on the tree with the drum removed.
- The visor. This is a plate which holds the GRCS from sliding up the trunk on removals. The GRCS cannot slide up the trunk even with the largest loads applied. This plate can be attached or removed in seconds. So if you are doing a removal, use the 'Visor' attachment. When you are pruning, take it off. Easy peasy no sweat just one single pin slides in and out to remove or install.
If you are considering a lifting and lowering device, the GRCS is by far the best investment.
