Abstract: A cable storage reel for a hoist is provided with a drum having a plurality of spaced concentric grooves to receive the cable thereon. The reel is mounted upon an elongated bearing and is free to slide longitudinally thereon. The drum of the reel is provided with a longitudinal gap traversing the concentric grooves. The reel is also keyed to the elongated bearing. An elastomeric roller is freely carried adjacent the storage reel with the reel flanges in frictional contact with the roller. When the reel is driven by the bearing to take up the cable, the cable as it reaches the gap, crosses over to the next concentric groove causing the reel to move laterally along the elongated bearing, the flanges to follow a helical path across the roller to drive the reel laterally and to level wind the cable.

Abstract: A rigid boom is provided with a cable receiving winch drum and a traction sheave to receive the cable therethrough. The drum is laterally removable from the boom and a latch and split cable guide mechanism on the sheave permits a new drum and cable to be installed on the boom in a short interval of time.