Abstract: Multi-pedestal winch system with disconnect automatic reconnect.

Abstract: A three speed winch has two alternative inputs. The first input shifts the winch between first, second and third gear trains by successive reversals of the direction of an input member. The alternative input drives the winch at two different speeds responsive to rotation of an input member in opposite directions. The alternative input may be connected to drive the winch in either first or third gear so that the winch provides seven gear ratios. There are four pairs of gear ratios available by simple reversal of direction of an input, and the winch has three different ratios between the gear ratios of the different pairs.

Abstract: A pedestal winch with variable radius crank arms. The winch is intended for use on a sail boat or the like. The crank arms each include two telescoping sections together with a locking apparatus for locking the sections together in differing positions so as to achieve differing radii. A thumb-actuated operating member is positioned adjacent each crank handle for controlling the locking apparatus. Accordingly, an operator need not remove his/her hands from the crank handles in order to switch the winch between a short radius position for high speed winching and a long radius position for high power winching.