What is the ArkPak?

The ArkPak is a portable power source that comes with both a 12V car charger and quick release mounting brackets. This product is essentially a battery box that turns a plain ole’ deep cycle battery into a multi-use portable power pack.

Through the use of a built-in 150 watt inverter, USB charging port, and 12V accessory ports, this device can come in handy at a campsite, during a power outage, or even while tailgating — so it definitely has it’s appeal with the off-road crowd.

When you use a deep cycle, high capacity battery, the ArkPak will offer 120V and 12V power for extended periods of time. It all depends on what you are using it for, but some large items can even run off the ArkPak for almost two weeks. The ArkPak will recharge from a 120V outlet or 12V vehicle accessory ports. You can also even recharge the ArkPak with solar panels (not included, but adaptable) — most solar panel kits run about $50 and up from the local retail stores. Included with the ArkPak is also a 50 amp Anderson plug for recharging.

How is it Powered? 

The ArkPak does not come with a special battery, so you are free to use any standard 12V lead-acid battery group 31 or smaller in the device. ACM, calcium, gel, or “wet” lead-acid battery types are all compatible. The manufacturer does, however, recommend that you use a zero maintenance deep-cycle RV or marine battery.

Wondering more about this solar charging features? We don’t blame you, because it’s pretty cool. The ArkPak is able to be recharged with solar panels, but you have to use a charging controller too. You may be able to completely recharge your ArkPak daily this way, but it depends on the battery and the panels you are using — this makes it a very environmentally friendly product and keeps you from having to charge the battery at the wall so often.

The uses are vast, but most commonly, people use the ArkPak as a secondary power source for vehicles, electric winches, electronics, and like we mentioned before, camping.

While there are other products like it on the market, the ArkPak is the one that stands out to me, it makes the most sense.

Yellow Top Batteries – These are high-performance AGM batteries that offer dual purpose versatility. They perform above any expectation as a tractor or forklift battery, but also work for many other applications. The premium cranking power and cycling make this battery ideal for accessory-loaded vehicles — because of this, the yellow top is most popular on vehicles loaded down with navigation systems, off-roads lights, and more.

Red Top Batteries – The red tops are AGM batteries with the highest amount of ignition power. These batteries outlast regular batteries when used on vehicles with demanding starting and cranking power. Red top Optima batteries are most popular for large trucks, SUVs, and modified hot rods/street cars. If you have a truck without a lot of accessories, the red tops might be a good choice for you.

Blue Top Batteries – These batteries are made for boat and RV applications. They have exceptional running time and can handle more recharges than a traditional battery. This series of Optima batteries has little use for off-roaders, but would be perfect for your boats that have trolling motors &/or extensive electronics, and RVs equipped with all of the creature comforts.

Choosing an Optima battery is pretty simple when you know the information above. They are certainly not one-size-fits-all, but that’s perfect because your vehicle is not going to have the exact same needs as the next car or truck. New Optima batteries can cost as little as the mid $100s, but they can also run into the $300s and up. Some people choose to buy used, but those who do should have the battery fully tested before making the purchase. There’s really no alternative or off-brand comparable to the Optima brand, not one that’s mass produced at least. A good Optima battery can be a lifesaver when you use a winch and need your battery to hold up under added stress.

Learn to Use Your Winch 

This is the first and most basic safety tip that will keep you safe while using your winch. Proper operation is key to avoiding accidents and injuries. Thoroughly read over the owner’s manual for your model to learn to operate all features — each winch will come with a different set of instructions.

Inspect the Winch 

From time to time, it is important to check your winch for function BEFORE you are relying on it on the spot. Check to make sure all bolts are tightened to spec, do a visual for any damaged parts, and do a test cycle in a controlled situation.

While Winching, Make Sure You Have Cleared the Area

When the winch is in operation, don’t let people stand in the area. Also, do not step over the cable or rope, and don’t let anyone do so either. Because cable failure is always possible, a person could be seriously injured if it snaps  while under load. Stay away from the cable under load to avoid injury or death.

Check the Cable Frequently

Cable, straps, and rope should all be checked very frequently to ensure reliability and safety. If fraying or any kind of damage is spotted, replace it before the next use – do NOT take your chances with a damaged rope.

Have Proper Working Conditions

When using your winch, make sure the area is well lit, free of flammables, and clear of any objects that could cause you to trip and fall. Make sure you are also dressed appropriately for the job, don’t wear loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the gears — and keep hair longer than ear length pulled back! Always use leather gloves when handling wire/rope.

The ExtremeTerrain Jeep Adventure Contest is going on right now. Entry is free and the prize includes an amazing off-road adventure trip. Sign up today!

Click here to view the embedded video.

People interested in the contest need to visit the ExtremeTerrain Contest Page by 6:00:59 PM E.T. on January 21, 2014.

Good luck! If you win, let us know!

Spur Gear Drive

There are very few spur geared winches still on the market. A winch of this kind uses a set of spur gears — a bigger one of the motor shaft and a smaller one for the winch shaft. Winches with spur gears are very quick and have a low draw for their speed due to a lower gear friction internally — they do, however, need a strong brake to hold the load. Only people with the legendary Warn brand 8247-50 model winches will have the kind with spur driven units.

 Worm Gear Drive

Worm gear driven winches are commonly used on light duty 4-wheelers. The worm gear is good at holding a load and lowering under power. Winches with this gear drive are much slower than other models, although the drivetrains are usually robust and they only need minimal brake power to hold the load.

Planetary Gear Drive 

Planetary gear driven winches use a small gear similar to that used in an automatic transmission. These units are more compact, lighter, and cost less than other types. Most winches sold today are driven by a planetary gear — also, most most off-road recreational vehicles and trucks use winches with this kind of gear drive.

Next time you find yourself shopping for a winch and can’t decide between models, take the internal gears into consideration and use this information to make a smart choice. Winches are not one size or one job fits all, and your selection should be based on what you’ll be using the unit for the most. You might even find that you could benefit from having multiple kinds of winches on hand if you do a lot of winching for different reasons.