Centerboard winch

[RobHale]

Hi folks!

I need some advice about replacing the winch that raises and lowers my centerboard. I believe the centerboard is 400 - 600 lbs. It is cast iron. I bought the boat used, and the present winch looks like a trailer winch. It has a steel cable, which is fraying because it rubs where it goes through the hole in the cockpit floor. I feel the winch is unsafe, because it can spin freely if you let go of the handle, and it spins around so fast that it could cause serious injury. I want to replace the winch with a two-speed winch that needs to be cranked down or that has a built-in brake. Would appreciate advice from anyone who has dealt with this problem. Thanks!

-- Rob Hale, Glastonbury, CT.

 

[dscribner]

Ron,

I have a fixed shoal keel, so I have no experience with the centerboard winch issue. But, there was a discussion about brake winches about a week ago. Apparently, you can leave the handle at any time and the winch won't back out. They are more expensive than a standard winch with a pawl, but I guess they are worth it. Go to Northern Tool for some examples.

Here's their description of their 800 lb model ($59)

Multiple application winch to raise or lower boats, sailboat keels, grain augers and more. Automatic brake holds load in position when handle is released, making it ideal for pulling loads. Minimum operating load of 50 lbs. Rugged construction, 7in. handle. U.S.A.

Fair Winds!

Don

 

[MrUnix]

The Mac's/Ventures all came with pawl type winches. They can easily be replaced with a brake type winch that is safer. If your cable is fraying, then you need to replace it as soon as possible; it is a major PITA to replace if it snaps while the boat is in the water.. trust me, I know first hand :neutral: Now is a good time to also check the related attachment hardware and centerboard pivot bolt. I doubt that a two speed winch is necessary given the short travel, but it's your dime!

Cheers,
Brad

 

[DJN51]

Check out Dutton-Laison Website.They make worm gear winches for sailboat keel applications.Replaced mine years ago on my Chrysler 20.Most boat builders used them.

 

[Timo42]

That isn't the original winch and is dangerous, the Macs and Ventures came with the Dutton-Lainson brake winch, the ones that are available now have a different bolt pattern, but it's simple to drill the extra hole. Single speed winch works just fine, if you search in the Macgregor forum, there are quite a few threads about the winches and how to make a replacement cable. Be careful with the old cable , wear heavy gloves, it can bite you with all the broken strands you will find. You can change the cable and winch on the trailer.

 

[oldiesrocker2001]

Dont forget to replace the stainless bolt that the cable drags over - It's probably got a groove cut into it which is what tore up the cable. That's pretty easy to do with two people.
My V21 has the same trailer type winch and MUST be held when lowering. The Wood step it bolts to is cracked, though and I'm finishing off a piece of mohogany today to replace it with(couldnt find teak..)