Windlass

B

Brian

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Member
Joined
Mar 2, 2000
RO Number
64
Messages
334
I am thinking of buying a new windlass and it is getting old pulling the anchor up manually. I like both the Lewmar and Maxwell. Also I think the vertical configuration is best. Any opinions?? My boat is a 33 chris commander. Also the wiring. What gauge is needed?
 
I like the Good windlass. Whatever you get make sure it takes rope and chain; and is freefall. I like the vertical providing it is enclosed but it is really a matter of your anchor locker.
 
Size of the wiring will vary a bit with distance from your batteries. But as with most high-amp draw devices, the heavier the gauge the better. I was lucky that I had 0# already in place when I installed my windlass (which by the way was one of the best additions to my boat). I agree with the above about rope/chain and free-fall.
 
Ditto above, rope + chain + freefall.

I have a Lewmar and while I have had some issues with it, service and warranty have been great.

A rope drum would be handy, though.
 
why do you guys prefer free fall?

I have all chain and suspect that there is a depth at which the suspended chain would be heavy enough to pull it all out if it was free fall.
 
The free-fall windlasses I've seen still have the power-down option, so you have your choice.
 
I like the Good windlass as well - I have a free fall rope model, I regret not getting the rope/chain model because I still have to pull up the last six feet (chain) by hand and then tie it off. I'll upgrade at some point.
 
I've had a Good freefall windlass for 2 seasons now. I replaced (upgraded with a tradein allowance) to a rope/chain as well. The freefall option is really nice, because the rope is not engaged in the windlass, letting it pay out as you set your scope, then you hit the switch and lock it.

They usually provide you with 10' of chain, but you can negotiate this a little. I got 15' of chain and the standard 200' of rope, which has been more than adequate for my 33' Sundancer. If you have existing wiring, try that first with your new one. You may be able to use it. Good also has decent customer support.
 
The only advice I can offer is that whatever you buy, get more chain rather than less. For example a boat length of chain is nice to have, 6 feet isn't enough.

Also, if you do not get the rode from the windlass supplier, make sure you get the recommended line and chain size and type. If it says "3 strand" don't get "8-plait" because someone said it will "work". Been there, done that, had to change it.
 
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