STEIN RCW-3001 User manual

Please read this document carefully, it gives instructions for the correct use of this product
RCW-3001
Part Number: SS-RCP9009

Language: English
1
Please read this document carefully, it gives instructions for the correct use of this product
CONTENTS
Page Description
2 Warnings
3 Product Identification and Markings
Product Life
4 RCW-3001 Box Contents
5 RCW-3001 Part Identification
6 RCW-3001 Product Information and Warning Labels
7 RCWINCH Box Contents
8 RCWINCH Part Identification
9 RCWINCH Assembling the Winch
10 Mounting Methods
Tree Protection Mounts
Work Zone
11 Ratchet Strap Mounting
Base Anchor Point
Top Attachment Point
12 Device Mounting Instructions
13 Routing The Rope
14 Attaching the RCWINCH
15 Operating the RCWINCH
Advancing the system
16 Lowering Operations
Warnings
17 Inspection Record - RCW-3001
18 Inspection Record - RCWINCH
Manufacturer Details
Fletcher Stewart (Stockport) Limited
Newby Road Industrial Estate
Hazel Grove
Stockport Cheshire SK7 5DA
United Kingdom
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.fletcherstewart.co.uk
This product is Produced Under Licence

RC Instruction Manual
2
WARNING
Activities using this type of equipment are inherently dangerous. It is not possible to cover every eventuality
relating to the use of this equipment. Purchasers and users of RC devices should seek professional training from
a fully qualified and competent instructor prior to engaging in any activity. If you are not able, or not in a position
to assume this responsibility, do not use this product. The manufacturer its distributors and retailers do not
accept any liability if users do not follow the instructions correctly. Only the techniques shown in the diagrams
are authorised. Any other use deviating from those shown may result in serious injury or death.
Prior to each use a complete risk assessment must be carried out to ascertain that the device chosen configures
with and is appropriate to the work being undertaken. The RC device chosen must also be compatible with all
the other components within the system.
Users must always ensure that all components of the work system are suitable for the foreseeable loadings that
may be applied during use. Poor technique and shock loading may cause catastrophic failure of this equipment
and should be avoided. Where a failure of the product may occur a suitable backup system must be installed
and used. All components of the system used with the device must be inspected before and after each
lowering/lifting operation. Retire the RC device from use if there are any tactile or visual signs of wear or
damage. The retention devices must also be inspected & checked for both tension and wear after each lowering
or lifting operation to ensure they are securely attached to the RC device and the mounting point.
The RC Lowering Devices should only ever be used with the correct diameter of rope, You must never exceed
the recommended maximum diameters. Each device has a Working Load Limit (WLL) – This is the maximum
load allowed to be applied to the device either for lifting or lowering above which catastrophic failure will occur.
These values are based on a vertical load being applied and used as specified within these instructions.
Although these devices have been issued with a Working Load Limit (WLL) it is your responsibility to ensure that
all the components used in conjunction with the device are matched equally with their Working Load Limit (WLL)
or Safety Factor (SF) or Safe Working Load (SWL). If you are unsure on a products individual specifications
you should contact the manufacturer. You should never exceed the lowest rated section or component within a
rigging system. When calculating any rigging system the strength of the anchor and attachment points must also
be taken into account.
�RC devices must never be used for lifting or lowering people. They are not intended or rated for use as
Personal Protective Equipment. (PPE)
�Always keep body parts, loose clothing, and debris away from the device when in use.
�Always use appropriate hand protection when operating the device.
�When holding the working line NEVER wrap the line around your hands or other body parts. Always ensure
it can run freely in case you need to release the line in an emergency.
�Do not stand or allow others to stand directly under the load being lowered or under the work being
performed above. Ensure users and other persons are working and operating the device from a safe distance.
�Any potential dynamic/shock loading must always be kept to an absolute minimum
�All connecting devices or components must be retired from use if they are subjected to impact loading.
�To avoid damage to the device you must minimise all if any free fall distance.
�Always maintain control of each and every suspended load until it has safely reached the ground and been
untied.
�All pivot points and moving parts must be lubricated regularly using a suitable lubrication spray. Ensure no
excess lubrication comes into contact with any area of the textile fixings or working line. Remove all excess
lubrication immediately.
�Products covered under these instructions should never be resold or used by a third party after it has been
used by the original purchaser.
�The manufacturer recommends this product should be inspected prior to use along with periodically
independent inspection in line with UK LOLER 1998.
�Always use appropriate hand, head and eye protection when operating the device
�See additional warnings on Page 16
As part of any method statement we recommend that all users of this equipment must be given a copy
of these instructions. They must read them, understand them and explicitly follow all instructions and
cautions attached. Any person using this equipment should be fully trained and competent in its use
before carrying out any rigging operations.

Language: English
3
Product Identification and Markings
Each RC Device is fitted with a Product Identification label as shown below.
1 Manufacturers Name
2 Trademark
3 Product Model Number
4 Type Of Use
5 Working Load Limit
6 RC Device Weight
(1) With Rubbers
(2) With Rubbers & Mounting Straps
(3) With Rubbers & Mounting Straps & Winch
7 Individual Serial Number
8 Country of Origin
Model Maximum Rope Diameter Working Load Limit (WLL)
RCW-3001 19mm 3000kg
The RC Lowering Devices should only ever be used with the correct diameter of rope, You must never exceed
the recommended maximum diameters. Each device has a Working Load Limit (WLL) – This is the maximum
load allowed to be applied to the device either for lifting or lowering. These values are based on a static vertical
load being applied and used as specified in these instructions. However, a dynamic load can multiply the forces
incurred on a rigging system; a dynamic load weighing considerably less than the WLL of the device can still
exceed the limit due to the multiplied forces caused by its motion. Therefore, all potential dynamic loads should
be carefully calculated and minimised where possible.
Product Life
If the product shows tactile or visual signs of wear, chemical contact, abrasion, or crushing it should be retired
from use immediately. These times are for guidance purposes only taking account of all the individual
components which are supplied with the RC Device.
Daily Use: max 2-years
Weekly Use: max 3-years
Occasional Use: max 5-years
The total maximum life of this product (storage before use + lifetime in use) is limited to 10 years. In good storage
conditions this product may be kept for as many as 5 years before the first use without affecting its future
duration in use. The working life depends on the frequency and type of use.
1 Fletcher Stewart (Stockport) Limited
2 STEIN
3 RCW-3001
4 Lowering Device
5 3000kg WLL
6 (1) 13.3kg
(2) 20.3kg
(3) 29.0kg
7 RC-3001-serial number
8 United States of America
�You must ascertain that the device chosen is appropriate to the work being undertaken.
�Working Load Limits will vary depending on the type of mounting used (see page 12)
�The Working Load Limit is based on using the supplied mounting Ratchet Handle & Strap and backed up
with a sufficiently rated Anchor Sling.
�If you are using both the Top Attachment Point and the Device at the same time the Working Load Limits on
both areas should be taken into account. Example: the devices WLL is 3000kg the top attachment point is
100kg so the devices WLL will be reduced down to 2900kg.
WARNING:
By not installing and operating the product correctly as per the instructions and by misuse of the product it is possible to destroy this product and
its components during its first use

RC Instruction Manual
4
Box Contents
1 1 x RCW-3001 Lowering Device SS-RCW3001
2 1 x 5.8m Ratchet Strap Tail c/w Hook End SS-RCP5001
3 1 x Ratchet Strap Handle SS-RCP5000
4 1 x Pair of Rubber Protection Mounts SS-RCP5006
5 1 x Instruction Manual SS-RCP9009
Your RC Device will consist of the the following items:
1
2
3
4
5

Language: English
5
1 Attachment Point (100kg WLL)
2 RCWINCH Mounting Point
3 Rear Fairleads
4 Front Fairleads
5 Side Anchor Point
6 Base Anchor Point
7 Rubber Protection Mount Slots
8 Bollard
Part Identification
11
22
33
4
4
5 5
5
66
7
7
Model: RCW3001
Front View Side View
88
Identify the Parts of the RCW3001
LEFT SIDE RIGHT SIDE

RC Instruction Manual
6
1 Product Warning Label
2 Product Warning Label
3 Product Information Label
4 Attachment Point Label
5 Attachment Point Label
6 Attachment Point Label
7 Product Warning Label
8 Identification Plate
Product Information and Warning Labels
WARNING:
It is important that all Safety Labels are visible and present. It is
recommended that you replace these immediately if they are
removed or un-readable. New labels can be ordered using the
appropriate part numbers.
Model: RCW3001
Front View Side View
Identify the Warning Labels
1
2
3
4 5
6
7
8
3 2
7
5
6
1
4
SS-RWL3001 - Warning Label Kit

Language: English
7
Box Contents - RCWINCH
1 1 x RCWINCH Assembly SS-RCWINCH
2 1 x 5.0m Winch Line (supplied loose) SS-RCP6005
3 1 x Securing Pin SS-RCP6006
4 1 x 70cm Accessory Cord SS-1EM0070
5 1 x Steel Karabiner SS-1H8321
61 x Instruction Manual
(Original Winch Manufacture) SS-RCP9009
Your RCWINCH Device will consist of the the following items:
1
2
3
4
5
6
SS-RCWINCH - Available as an Optional Extra
WARNING:
The RCWINCH is supplied un-assembled and must be assembled
according to the Winch Manufacturers Instructions.
Example of assembled unit
RCW-3001 not supplied
WARNING:
The RCWINCH CANNOT be fitted to the RC3001.
No attempt should be made to try to retro-fit this unit to the RC3001

Language: English
8
1 RCWINCH Assembly
2 Winch Handle
3 Winch Drum
4 Pin Retaining Hole
5 Warning Label
6 Warning Label
7 Winch-line Guide Ring
8 Securing Pin
Part Identification
WARNING:
It is important that all Safety Labels are visible and present. It is
recommended that you replace these immediately if they are
removed or un-readable. New labels can be ordered using the
appropriate part numbers.
Model: RCWINCH
Front View Side View
Identify the Parts of the RCW3001
2
1
4
8
5
3
2
3
5
7
6
6

Language: English
9
Assembling the RCWINCH
The RCWINCH is supplied un-assembled and requires assembly as per the Original Manufactures
Instructions. If the Winch is not assembled as per the manufactures instructions this will void any warranty.
Image of components Winch Handle Assembly Example of Winch-line retention
RCWINCH Maintenance
To maintain the RCWINCH please refer to the section WINCH MAINTENANCE in the manufactures
instruction booklet.
WARNING:
If the Winch is not assembled or maintained as per the manufactures instructions this will void any warranty.

Language: English
10
Mounting The RCW-3001
Tree Protection Mounts
The device is supplied with a set of rubber protection mounts.
To fit these insert one in the top channel of the device and one in the
bottom, these are designed to be a tight fit.
The mounts should be inspected carefully prior to use and rotated
each time the device is used.
Bollard Working Zone
The user should position the
device so there is a clear
working zone of 120 from the
front of the device. The lowering
line must stay within this
working zone to ensure correct
rope alignment. This also
prevents the rope from
overlapping on the bollard and
makes full use of the fairleads.
Working Zone
120°
Method 1
Protection Mounting
Working Load Limit 500kg
This method of mounting
is used where selected
limbs are being removed
but the tree remains. This
method helps protect the
tree from damage.
Method 2
Sunken Mounting
Working Load Limit 3000kg
This method of mounting
is used where the tree is
being dismantled and the
limbs lowered are of a
heavy size and where
impact loading may occur.
When using method 2 the sunken cut should not
exceed 2cm. Any deeper than 2cm and this will
interfere with the base anchor point and will make
the top attachment point unusable.
Maximum cut
depth 2cm
40cm
Maximum cut
depth 2cm
When mounting the device it is recommended to locate it at a height where the rope will be tailed out as close
to horizontal as possible. This will ensure the maximum use of the fairleads.
WARNING:
Never use the device with only one of the rubber protection mounts fitted
WARNING:
The Working Load Limit is based on using the specified
mounting Ratchet Handle & Strap and backed up with a
sufficiently rated Anchor Sling. The ratchet strap tensions should
be checked after each load, and re-tightened if appropriate
WARNING: Never attempt to mount the RCW-3001 with the RCWINCH fitted. The RCWINCH should only be mounted once the RCW-3001
is securely positioned and mounted correctly.

RC Instruction Manual
11
Ratchet Strap Mounting
Base Anchor Point
The Working Load Limits (WLL) are based on using the specified
mounting Ratchet Strap and backed up with a sufficiently rated
Anchor Sling. This is to be connected directly to the base anchor point
as shown in the diagram below using a chocked hitch and terminated
around the tree using a suitable self-tightening hitch such as a
cow-hitch or timber-hitch.
This must be inspected & checked for both tension and wear after
each lowering/lifting operation to ensure it is securely attached to the
device and the mounting point.
Anchor Sling
Top Attachment Point
The top attachment point has a
Working Load Limit (WLL) of
100kg. This can also be used to
support the weight of the device
to help with the initial mounting by
an individual person and with the
removal of the device from the
mounting point.
(5) (6)
WARNING:
The RC Device should never be operated
or used without an Anchor Sling fitted and
secured properly using an appropriate knot.
Top Attachment Point
(1) (2) (3) (4)
When fixing either end of the Ratchet Strap ensure the hook faces outwards as in diagram (1) and is pulled
horizontal. By fitting the Ratchet as pictured in diagram (2) the hook could slip out during use. Never pull the
Webbing Straps at an angle as shown in diagrams (3) & (4).
When tightening the ratchet ensure the webbing enters the ratchet evenly (5) and is not in contact with the
side guide plates (6). This will cause premature wear to the webbing and possible webbing failure. The
retention devices must be inspected & checked for both tension and wear after each lowering or lifting
operation to ensure they are securely attached to the RC device and the mounting point.

Language: English
12
Device Mounting Instructions
(7) Using the supplied Ratchet Handle and Ratchet
Strap attach the device to the tree.
(8) Ensure the Strap Hooks are fitted correctly and
the Webbing is fed through the Ratchet Handle
as shown on page 8
(9) Tighten the Ratchet System as tight as possible
ensuring the device is securely mounted to the
tree.
(10) Once the Device is securely mounted a backup
Anchor Sling must be attached to the base
anchor point. and tied off using a suitable
termination hitch. Ensure the sling is of a
sufficient length to terminate the hitch properly.
(11) Once the device is mounted correctly the top
attachment sling can either be removed or
detached from the device.
(4) For ease of mounting we recommend that you
place a STEIN Mounting sling above where the
device is to be mounted.
(5) Using the Top Attachment Point attach the
lowering device to the Karabiner.
(6) Ensure the device is suspended at a height
where it can be safely operated.
(1) When selecting the best place to mount the
device try to locate an area where there is little
or no stem taper. If the tree is being removed
this can be achieved by shaping the stem to be
parallel.
(2) You must then decide which type of mounting
method is required for the job you are
undertaking (see page 7)
ENSURE THE WORK AREA IS FREE & CLEAR OF ANY OBSTACLES AND A FULL
RISK ASSESSMENT HAS BEEN UNDERTAKEN BEFORE USING THE RC DEVICE
These mounting instructions are the same for using both methods of mounting as described on page 7
NEVER USE THIS DEVICE WITHOUT A BACKUP ANCHOR SLING ATTACHED
8
8
8
Example of termination hitch - not to scale

RC Instruction Manual
13
Routing The Rope
(1) Ensure the working line enters the device from a
vertical point directly above the device.
(2) If the RCWINCH is not fitted the line can enter
the device from either the left-hand or right-hand
side of the bollard.
(3) If the RCWINCH is fitted the line can only enter
the device from the left-hand side of the bollard.
(1) The rope must take a single wrap,
passing behind both rear fairleads
(2) Pull the rope tight and continue with
further wraps in between the rear and front
fairleads
(5) Apply a couple of wraps, more wraps maybe
required subject to the size of timber being
lowered. More wraps give more friction.
(6) If at any time you need to suspend/lock a load,
simply wrap the working line a minimum of 4
times around the bollard and finish by applying 2
half hitch's on opposing exit fairlead’s. Subject to
the size of load being suspended extra half
hitch's maybe required.
The following instructions demonstrate the correct routing of the working line for the RCW-3001 without the
RCWINCH attachment fitted. Never use alternative routing as this may result in serious injury or death.
Once you are in a position to commence lowering, stand well clear of the drop zone ensuring the working line
will not be obstructed by the item being lowered. Where a load is being cut from above the rigging pivot point
the operator should draw slack out of the system. This can be achieved by quickly pulling on the working line
as the branch/log begins to fold and then release the working line as normal as the load passes the rigging point.
If it is necessary to pre-tension the working line tighter than what can be physically achieved by
simply pulling down on it, a mechanical advantage of 3:1 can be achieved by incorporating the Stein
RC-3100 Pre-Tension pulley or by adding the RCWINCH attachment.

Language: English
14
Attaching the RCWINCH
The following instructions demonstrate the correct method of attaching the RCWINCH to the RCW-3001.
Never use alternative methods of mounting as this may result in serious injury or death.
(1) Ensure/check that the winch is correctly assembled as per
separate winch instructions
(2) Ensure you working line is securely tied off.
(3) Align the RCWINCH with the RCW-3001
(4) Once in place align the securing pin holes
(5) Insert the Securing Pin fully pushing the pin to depress the spring
(6) Flip the pivoting pin end and release the pressure on the securing
pin
(7) Double check the pin is securely locked in place
(8) To dismount the RCWINCH reverse the process ensuring the
Working line has been securely tied off and the Winch-line has
been detached from the working line.
“VT”
Using a minimum of 4 wraps
“Klemheist”
Using a minimum of 4 wraps
“Schwabish”
Using a minimum of 4 wraps
Friction Hitch / Knots
The following instructions demonstrate the correct method of attaching the Winch-line to the main working line.
Never use alternative methods of attaching as this may result in serious injury or death.
The RCWINCH is supplied with a STEIN “COPIOUS” sewn eye friction cord. Attach the friction cord to the
working line using one of the approved friction knots as shown below. As the friction hitch / working line wears
extra wraps will be required to maintain grip. Extra wraps may also be necessary on narrow gauge working lines.
on Always test the friction hitch before each use.
WARNING: Always ensure the Fiction Hitch is operating correctly before use.
Extra wraps maybe required to increase the grip. Destroy and replace damaged or excessively worn friction hitches.
If you are unable to tie any of these friction knots you should seek professional training from a fully qualified and competent instructor.
WRAPS
}
WRAPS
}
WRAPS
}

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15
Operating the RCWINCH
(1) Ensure the working line is securely tied off on the bollard (1).
(2) Draw out an appropriate length of winch line by simultaneously pulling on the line and back-winding
(anti-clockwise) the lever. The operator should use at least an arms reach of winch line to get the most
benefit from the winch system. Only release as much winch line as is required
(3) Attached the friction hitch to the working line and test accordingly; attach the Winch-line to the friction hitch
using the supplied Steel Karabiner (2).
(4) Slide the fiction hitch up the working line as far as you can physically reach (2).
(5) Once the friction hitch has been positioned and dressed to ensure it is gripping the working line correctly
slowly turn the winch handle clockwise to take up the slack and apply tension to the system.
The following instructions demonstrate the correct method of using the RCWINCH to advance the working line
to the RCW-3001. Never use alternative methods as this may result in serious injury or death.
Tensioning and Lifting operations
(1) With the working line under tension slowly release the working line on the bollard ensuring any load is
supported on the bollard with the appropriate number of wraps.(Refer to page 13 )
(2) Whilst one person is winding the winch a second person is required to ensure the working line is kept
under tension on the bollard drawing slack out of the system. Wind the winch as far as required (3).
(3) If further winching is required securely tie off the working line and release the winch slowly. The load will
be supported on the bollard allowing the process to be repeated. Repeat the above process as many
times as is required (4).
Advancing the System
WARNING: As the winch line pulls down on the working line, the slack induced into the working line (between
the bollard and the friction hitch) must be simultaneously removed by pulling the line outside of the exit fairlead,
either by the operators free hand or a second person. A minimum of 2 wraps of working line must be kept on
the bollard whilst removing slack or more depending on the diameter of line and weight of the load.
WARNING: Never use the RCWINCH for lowering a load. The Winch should always be disconnected from the
working line before any lowering operations commence.
(1) (2) (3) (4)
Keep
Under Tension

Language: English
16
Lowering operation
(1) Never use the RCWINCH for lowering a load
(2) Never use the RCWINCH for lifting/lowering humans
(3) The RCWINCH should always be disconnected from the working line before
any lowering operations commence.
(4) The RCWINCH and components should never be subjected to Dynamic
Shock Loading. If any part of the RC System is subjected to any Dynamic
Shock Loading it should be inspected by a competent person and replace
accordingly.
(5) Never release the winch without securing the working line on the Bollard.
(6) Never allow slack in the system as this could allow the working line to snag
and apply dangerous dynamic forces to the System and working line (3)(6).
(7) Never retract the winch-line past the Winch Guide Ring. We recommend
leaving at least 10cm of winch line beyond the Guide Ring (1).
(8) Never retract the winch line past the Red Warning Marker (5)
(9) The winch line must stay within the working zone to ensure correct rope
alignment (2).
(10) Never allow the working line to enter the bollard from the right-hand side when
used in conjunction with the RCWINCH (4)
(11) Never use the RCWINCH for operations other than its intended purpose.
(1) Once the load is in the correct position ensure the working line is securely tried off on the bollard.
(2) To commence lowering the load release any tension from the winch system and remove the friction hitch
from the working line.
(3) Subject to the position of the load the RCWINCH can remain in position whilst the lowering operation is
undertaken however we would strongly advise the RCWINCH is removed from the RCW-3001 prior to any
lowering operation to avoid possible damage to the winch should the load swing and collide with the winch.
(4) If the RCWINCH is staying in position ensure the winch line has been retracted appropriately to avoid any
snagging on the working line.
(5) Once you are in a position to commence lowering, stand well clear of the drop zone ensuring the working
line will not be obstructed by the item being lowered. Where a load is being cut from above the rigging
pivot point the operator should draw slack out of the system. This can be achieved by quickly pulling on
the working line as the branch/log begins to fold and then release the working line as normal as the load
passes the rigging point.
ADDITIONAL WARNINGS
(1) (2) (3) (4)
(5)
Working
Zone
These warnings are in addition to those on listed on page 2 and those in the
Winch Manufactures Operators Manual
(6)

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17
PERIODIC EXAMINATION RECORD
Date Reason for entry Examination Notes Name signature
Model
RCW-3001
Serial Number Purchased from
Purchase Date
Date first used
Comments
The manufacturer recommends this product should be inspected prior to use along with periodically independent
inspection in line with UK LOLER 1998.
Inspection Record

RC Instruction Manual
18
PERIODIC EXAMINATION RECORD
Date Reason for entry Examination Notes Name signature
Model
RCWINCH
Serial Number Purchased from
Purchase Date
Date first used
Comments
The manufacturer recommends this product should be inspected prior to use along with periodically independent
inspection in line with UK LOLER 1998.
Inspection Record

Language: English
19
STEIN Products Limited
Newby Road Industrial Estate
Hazel Grove
Stockport Cheshire SK7 5DA
United Kingdom
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.steinworldwide.com