Stein RCW 3001 Lowering Device Complete

The Stein RCW 3001 lowering device is a trunk-mounted rigging control system that combines a friction drum for lowering with a winch for taking up slack and lifting. Sold complete, it gives a removal crew more control over heavy pieces than a plain friction device.

What the RCW adds to a rigging system

A friction device at the base lets you lower wood, but it cannot pull. The RCW mounts to the trunk, takes wraps of the rigging line like a friction device, and adds a winch so the ground crew can pre-tension the line, lift a piece clear of its cut, or take slack out before the catch. Pre-tensioning cuts the drop distance and the shock load.

It works best on heavy removals where control matters: wood over structures, big leaders, and pieces that need to be lifted a few inches before they swing. Use rope within Stein's listed diameter range and check Stein's ratings for the RCW 3001 before planning a lift.

Mounting the device on the trunk also means the ground worker stands off to the side of the drop zone instead of in front of it.

Setup and inspection

Mount it to a sound trunk following Stein's instructions, keep hands clear of the drum, and use the winch handle only as directed. Inspect the strap, drum, winch, and fasteners before every job. See other options in our lowering devices section.

Rigging forces are dynamic and can be several times the weight of the piece. Follow the manufacturer's ratings and ANSI Z133, inspect every component before the job, and keep rigging work to trained crews.