40 Hard top hoist modification question for racor owners

[tubalubb]

Hey gang, I glanced through the threads on hard top hoists but can't find an answer to this specific question. Has anyone modified or seen a modification to a Racor hard-top lift? Mine arrives tomorrow and I want to hook it up to an electric winch (I know it has a power drill attachment but I'm trying to do something different). I just want to see if anyone else has done something like this before I do it. The last time I rigged up a hoist I pulled the ceiling down and began a big project that ultimately allowed me to create a 14' ceiling and loft. I don't want to have to climb a ladder to operate the lift.
Thanks
Tub

 

[1911]

The Racor lift comes with a bell crank and a long handle for it. My lift is installed over 12 feet high, and I don't have to stretch or reach to operate the bell crank (standing on the floor of the shop). Also, the weight of the complete hard top is easy to crank up by hand, with the bell crank. I would recommend that you install the lift and try it by hand before you go to the bother of electrifying it; you may find it unnecessary.

 

[dfclimber]

I have the racor lift. I found the cable difficult to work with. It would unravel when not weighted. It was hard to level out the hooks used lift the hardtop. changed out the cable for high strength thin rope.

Agree with 1911, easier to crank by hand than with cordless drill. Especially when lowering. With 14 foot ceiling may need to make an extension.

 

[tubalubb]

Well I finally installed it after a few rough starts. I used the hooks you used in your setup as well as a backup strap system when hoisted. Mine did ok, cables on axle started to wrap over each other towards the end. I have a kayak positioned in the way and it made using the hook handle cumbersome.
A few years back I tried my own "drop down through the sheetrock" system that bonded and ultimately lead to the diy garage renovation. I really wanted to rig an electric hoist to it. A direct drive like my garage door opener I installed would work great on the Racor but I'd need a smaller setup. Ultimately I want to install some track on the ceiling so that items can be rolled over to loft storage.
I'm not keen on the stiffness of the axle so far, it is already flexed. Time shall tell.
Thank you for your advice.
Tub