H216 Mast Raising Electric Winch

[rangerpaul]

I just completed the installation of my electric winch to aid in raising the mast on my H216. Now easy to raise/lower mast and doesn't require any help. Total cost about $90. I can supply pix later if anyone is interested. I got the electric winch at Harbor Freight...winch has both a power release and pull. Mounted it vertically on front mast support using a U-bold heated and beat into shape. Swapped steel cable for 1/4 inch line. A barber hauler attached to the jib cleat keeps the line winding evenly. Control unplugs from winch via a trailer 4-prong connector for easy storage. Wiring was pretty simple...had to be extended to reach the back of the boat. Step mast, put mast on shoulder, push button and walk the mast forward. Slicker than snot on a doorknob.

 

[Ray T]

There is really something to be said for doing this by yourself. At present I attach the fore stay to the trailer winch and my wife cranks the winch while I walk the mast forward. You got a good deal on a winch and its paid for. I'm still paying for my wife.

 

[Quoddy]

Winch pics

Winch pics would be good, as your work may be applicable to many other boats. Anything that makes stepping the mast easier would be of interest to quite a few people, I would think.

 

[LDM]

RangerPaul, I would be very interested in some pictures of your mast winch. I will be sailing with my 12 year old son the majority of the trips and we will need some helpful gadgets.

 

[rangerpaul]

I have prepared an article that will go under Boat Info/Hunter Owner Modifications. Said article is supposedly being reviewed and will be published shortly. I will let you know when this happens. I also prepared an article on replacing the jib tang with an off the shelf "mast hound" and another article on the Garhauer rigid vang.