When we wanted to test our tripod to 12,000 pounds, we simply could not find a suitable pulley
on the market to help us with this test. The solution, make our own! That effort resulted in our pulley 1.0, which worked, but needed some improvements.
To the left you will see our version 2.0. The biggest change is the continuous becket at the bottom. This allows for termination of the rope at any location,
thus improving the balance of the load on the pulley. Other features include double sealed roller bearings. This decision was a result of the fact that when
we used a commercial pulley with sleeve bearings on a change of direction and only a 1400 pound load, we ruined it! We did not want to spare any expense in
making a piece of equipment of which we could be proud to produce. In addition, when the pulley is being assembled, each unit is individually shimmed so that
the sides of each pulley will not rub the frame. If any maintenance is required, the shaft can be removed by pulling the cotter pin at one end.
However, please consult with us before this attempt is made!
The hook has a working load rating of 10,000 pounds with a 4:1 safety ratio. Rope that is either
1/2 inch or 5/8 inch can be used, although 1/2 inch is preferred. The pulley set can be rigged for ratios from 2:1 up to 10:1.
To access a PDF with suggested
configurations for each ratio, click: Pulley Rigging Suggestions
Order a Pulley Set (pair) on either our Accessories or
XXL and Zoo Equipment ORDER page.
On 29 November 2017, our version 1.0 pulley was subjected to a destructive load test at Mazzella Lifting
Technologies. You can see the results to the right. While there were no visible cracks or other damage noted to the aluminum parts that we produce, the
point of failure was obvious, with the very heavy steel hook opening up. This was quite the surprise. Even the 1/2 inch nylon rope did not appear damaged.