Herkules winches winter flying in Poland

Does anyone out there have hands-on experience of using the Herkules series of diesel winches ? I would be most obliged for any practical details.

As regards winter flying in Poland - I know a fair amount about it & will be most happy to pass on any details - particularly at Jelenia Gora which is, in my opinion, by far the best and friendliest site. This would include accomodation. Do drop me a mail. Stan.

I would also like to know more about this winch.

I do know that they can be imported into the USA by Blanik America for about $85,000 USD.

The specification quotes 185 HP which would seem to be a very low figure. But, if the diesel powerplant has high torque at low RPM, it might be just enough. I seem to recall that they can be ordered without an engine.

The cable transport seems to have two small diameter, wide drums each equipped with a level winding (Paying on, Br.) mechanism.

Most pictures of them show them trailer mounted.

Bill Daniels

Stanislaw J Kochanowski a écrit :

There is one at La-Motte-du-Caire.

You will find email address on their web site at :

We use two old Herkules (ca. 20 years old) winches. With 1000-1200m cable we launch to 350-400m with Gobe, Pirat and Cirrus. IS28b2 will end up with less altitude (250-350). It doesn't require too much maintenance. The only problem I see is that you have to spin the broken cable immediately (other winches allow you to know it and spin it at night). Just send me a mail if any specific info is needed. Regards,