Frequently Asked Questions

Hoist Zone’s Shipping Policy

Orders processed within 24 hours. Hoists will ship via freight (5–12 Business Days) and other products will ship via UPS (2–5 Business Days).

Does Hoist Zone price match?

No, Hoist Zone offers the best quality at a fair price for our customers.

What do I do if my hoist doesn’t work?

You can’t afford to have a malfunctioning hoist. That’s why Hoistzone offers support Monday – Friday 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM EST. Contact our helpful staff by phone (574-742-1185) or by E-mail (info@hoistzone.com) to assist you in figuring out what is going wrong.

How do I replace my transmitter?

If you order a new transmitter from us to replace your old one, we will program your new transmitter to work out of the box with your system.

What is Variable Speed?

Variable Speed gives you the power to choose the lifting speed of your hoist with just the twist of a knob on your pendant.

How do I maintain my Hoist?

Hoists requires very little maintenance on your part. Oil the chain. Don’t lift over the rated capacity of your hoist.

How do I maintain my Chain?

Keep your chain oiled to prevent rusting.

How do I know if I have enough electric power in my building for the hoist or system I am going to buy?

Your safety is very important. That’s why we recommend contacting a certified electrician in your area to inspect what kind of power you have in your building.

Can I just contact Hoist Zone and explain my situation, and they recommend the system I should get?

Yes, with the help of our hoist experts we will find the solution that is right for you.

Can I replace my Hoist?

Yes, Hoist Zone will recommend a compatible hoist for your situation

What is Step?

“Step” is the term used to refer to the number of different lifting speeds a hoist has. Sometimes the term “speed” is used instead of “step.” A single step (or single speed) hoist can only lift at the speed that it was originally programmed. A two step (or two speed) hoist can be programmed to lift at a slower speed and faster speed. A variable speed hoist has a lift speed that can be adjusted on the fly by the hoist operator with only the twist of a knob.

What is Motion?

Motion is the term used to refer to how many different components a radio can control. A 1 motion radio is used to control a hoist. A 2 motion radio is used to control a hoist and trolley. A 3 motion radio is used to control a hoist, trolley, and a bridge. Radios with 4 or more motions are for more advanced applications where the operator wants control multiple hoists, trolleys, or bridges all at the same time.

What is an I-beam?

An I-beam, sometimes called an S-beam, gets its name because it resembles a capital I when looking at a cross section of it. The top and bottom of the I-beam are referred to as flanges and the vertical part between the flanges is called the web. An I-beams flanges are tapered with their thickest point closest to the web and their thinnest point at the edge. An I-beam is made by pushing steel through a series of rollers until it has been stretched into the desired size.

What is an H-beam?

An H-beam, sometimes called a wide flange or W-beam, gets its name because it resembles a capital H when looking at a cross section of it. The vertical sides of an H-Beam are called flanges and the horizontal part between the flanges is called the web. H-beams are made by adding layer after layer of steel until the desired size is reached. Because an H-beam is made by building and not rolling, a steel mill can produce whatever size is needed. H-beams are much more commonly used in construction today than I-beams.

How is the size of a beam determined?

A beam size is always defined by the height of the beam followed by the pounds per foot that the beam weighs. Thus, if someone is using a 10×15 as the main support for their house, they are using a beam that is 10 inches tall and weighs 15 pounds per foot.
So the next time you are ordering a beam or just describing a beam to a contractor or to your boss, you can describe what you’re talking about with confidence.

When do I need to replace the wire rope in my wire rope hoist?

Examine the wire rope carefully. Look for kinking, crushing, birdcaging, or any distortions. Also make sure that the diameter of the wire hasn’t reduced. If the wire rope passes these two tests, you’re good to go.

What’s the difference between a sling hook and a grab hook?

Hoistzone offers two different hook styles when you buy a CM Chain Sling. You can either choose the grab hook or the sling hook. The hook style that is right for you depends on the application. If you are looking for a more economical hook that is specifically designed for chain rigging, then you should choose the grab hook. However, if you will be using a variety of chains, slings, and straps to do your lifting; then the sling hook would be your best option. The sling hook also comes with a built in safety latch to ensure an optimal lift.

How do I perform a hook inspection?

Examine hooks for the following:

  • Missing or illegible hook manufacturer’s identification or secondary manufacturer’s identification
  • Missing or illegible rated load identification
  • Excessive pitting or corrosion
  • Cracks, nicks, or gouges
  • Wear—any wear exceeding 10% (or as recommended by the manufacturer) of the original section dimension of the hook or its load pin
  • Deformation—any visible apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook
  • Throat opening—any distortion causing an increase in throat opening of 5% not to exceed 1/4” (6mm), or as recommended by the manufacturer
  • Inability to lock—any self-locking hook that does not lock
  • Inoperative latch (if provided)—any damaged latch or malfunctioning latch that not close the hook’s throat
  • Damaged, missing, or malfunctioning hook attachment and securing means
  • Thread wear, damage, or corrosion
  • Evidence of heat exposure or unauthorized welding
  • Evidence of unauthorized alterations such as drilling, machining, grinding, or other modifications

If signs of any of those listed above are visually apparent, then use of said hook is mandated to be out of service until proper repair by qualified personnel has been performed.

How often should I perform a hook inspection?

In order to ensure your safety, the ASME requires hooks to be periodically inspected once a month. If a professional recommends even more often, then this supersedes the periodic monthly inspection.