Vintage Windmill and Wind Generator Forum

When I bought my B-702, this massive winch came with it and the previous owner said that is what his Grandfather had used on this mill. This is going to be an "in-town, garden ornament" and I will want to let it spin as much as possible, but still not run at full speed and scare the neighbors. I'm wondering if I use a winch instead of the furling handle, can I furl the tail partially without having the brake drag? (Also, any ideas what company might have made this winch? The only marks on it are "30 A" cast into the handle)

That looks like it was made for a big windmill most have handles about 6 inches. A man in Washington was looking for one that size for a 20ft Samson. . Yeah you could do what you are saying.