Manual Windlass on 321
Steve, The windlass that I installed is a Lewmar (Simpson-Lawrence)Anchorman Manual w/ 3/8" chain gypsy and the optional Rope Drum. I purchased on Ebay, but they are available through most chandleries for around $625.00+. Cannot find a photo of the anchor locker on a 331, but there is one at our marina. If my memory serves me correctly, there is a small recessed area just aft of the chain locker door expressly for installation of a vertical shaft windlass (either electric or manual). Installation of the manual should be pretty straight forward for your boat. I believe that this is the windlass normally provided from the US factory. The major problem with all Bs in this size range is the shallow chain locker. Without adequate freefall for the chain or rode it tends to bunch up and then jump out of the gypsy. An all chain rode will be less likely to jump the gypsy. Chances are you will have to have someone monitoring the chain or rode when hoisting the anchor. There goes the primary advantage of an electric unit! The manual is vastly easier and less expensive to install, so I would think carefully about how often you will be anchoring, and whether crew will be available to assist. Even though I singlehand most of the time, I have been able to drop anchor retrieve in normal conditions alone. Have not tried it in a major breeze. I have photos of our installation, but the arrangement on the 321 is quite different than your boat. Feel free to contact me offgroup at jmcclain@southshorelabs.com. Good Luck! Jon
