Why We’re So Excited About the CM Lodestar Hoist

Here at Empire Rigging, we’re proud to provide USA-made rigging solutions to corporate accounts, hobbyists, and independent contractors. We only supply the best equipment available, because we know that the right tools are essential to getting the job done. In order to make sure that everything we sell is top notch, we do a lot of testing and analysis. Often, the equipment is good but not great. Those items never make it into our inventory. Our customers expect the best, and “good enough” equipment simply doesn’t make the cut. On occasion, we come across equipment which really excites us. These are the things we provide to our customers on a daily basis.

The latest piece of equipment to catch our eye is the CM Lodestar hoist. We’ve dealt with a lot of similar equipment, so we when we first decided to take a look, we weren’t expecting much of a “wow” factor. We were wrong. To say we were thrilled is an understatement. Here’s a look at the features which make the CM Lodestar hoist one of our favorite pieces of equipment.

Oh, the Things You Can Do
There are multiple builds and styles of the hoist in question, but today we’re going to focus on the 2-ton, single-revved unit. This device is compact and surprisingly lightweight, with incredible versatility. It’s ideal for transport and built to last. The device meets international standards with its clutch-outside gear train, and the control panel has been completely redesigned from previous models for easier access and fuse installation. Even if you’ve owned a similar hoist, this particular model will be an incredibly satisfying upgrade.

CM has always been known to produce high-quality machines, and this hoist makes the reasoning for that reputation clear. The hoist is rated for ⅛ to 2-tons of weight. Its movement is smooth and surprisingly quiet. The standard lift is a comfortable 60-feet, but there are other lift additions available, making the Lodestar one of the most versatile options on the market. The hoist speed can be varied dynamically with a range of 5 to 100-feet per minute. Even at top speed, the machine runs exceptionally quiet. Tests in empty garages have shown that even with the echo, the noise level was minimal.

What’s New?
CM is always upgrading their products and improving upon their past work. This wonderful piece of equipment is no exception. Indeed, the improved features are a testament to the incredible engineering that goes into these machines. The CM Lodestar Hoist has new-and-improved safety features to ensure the well-being of the operator as well as potential bystanders.

All electronics are encased in non-conductive plastic for low headroom. Should you happen to accidentally overload the machine, the patented Lodestar protector technology will stop the hoist in its tracks, preventing injury to surrounding individuals and avoiding damage to the machine itself.

The machine also comes with the implemented standards that loyal CM customers have come to expect. It has a dual-braking system as well as upper and lower limit switches. The device arrives from the factory pre-lubed for life and comes with the world-renowned CM Hoist alloy load chain fitted with a standard rigid hook. Even more importantly, CM makes every single one of their hoists in the United States. Their American workers are proud to produce tools for their fellow American professionals. What could be better than that?

Commitment
With other hoists we’ve dealt with, we often recommend that customers rent before they buy. This is because of the fact that, when working with less optimal hoists, the client may benefit from a test drive. Most hoists have a few key quirks which the client will see clearly within a few days of use. This allows them to do a cost-benefit analysis and determine whether the upsides outweigh the downsides. However, with this particular piece of equipment, we don’t feel that such a “test drive” is necessary.

The CM Lodestar hoist is investment-grade equipment designed for the discerning professional. We’ve found that we’ve come to enjoy the performance of this hoist more with time. Whether you’re making the purchase for your business, shop, or garage, this is a piece of equipment that is easy to commit to.

Here at Empire Rigging, we strive to provide you with the best information possible. We believe that well-informed customers make the best decisions, and we know we’re the best at helping you stay informed! Ready to take the next step? Check out our inventory! Need more information? No problem! Our friendly, USA-based customer service representatives are here to help. Email us, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to helping you and your business succeed in the tough, rewarding industry we know best!