Abstract

The invention is a quick adjusting choke winch, wherein in contrast to a winch where the strap is threaded from an end of the choke strap, the choke strap is side-threaded along a longitudinal edge. The invention is appropriately sized so that multiple width straps can be accommodated. The quick adjusting choke winch is comprised of: a base plate having a bearing; an open-ended split-center shaft; at least two pack rollers for controlling the tangential angle of strap being wound; a means for guiding the choke strap within the winch; a ratchet plate; a releasable main pawl; a releasable safety pawl; a means for turning the open-ended split-center shaft; a cover plate; and at least one fastening element for attaching the cover plate. The ratchet plate is co-axially affixed to the open-ended split-center shaft, so that when the ratchet turns the open-ended split-center shaft turns through the same rotation. Mounted on the same side of the plate are an end of the open-ended split-center shaft, an end of the at least two pack rollers, the means for guiding the strap, an end of the main pintle, and an end of the safety pintle. The cover plate is removably mounted to at least the pack rollers, and receives the open-end of the split-center shaft. The split-center of the open-ended split-center shaft has an opening that is sufficiently wide to receive the thickness of the choke strap.