Harken Winches

[cmead]

I have a 1994 Hunter 28 and have never, ever done anything to the self-tailing winches adorning the boat. These are probably original and Harken.

They seem a bit crunchy now but don't get tons of use or abuse...so they work fine.

Should i go ahead and try to service them - scary. Are parts even available? Anyone tackle this on their own before? Advice?

 

[kloudie1]

These guys have the spares kits.. http://www.mauriprosailing.com/Harken/harken-winches.htm
Good idea to have one in hand before starting.. Not a hard job.. Use the box trick: cut a hole in the bottom of a box same size as the drum.. put it over the winch before you start disassembly to help catch wandering parts.. An article to read;
http://www.harken.com/winches/Harken_servicingwinchesmikelee.php
The Harken website should have blow-ups of the parts and how they come apart and go together.. Take pictures so you know what they looked like as you remove parts.. Only caution is to not put grease on the pawls and springs.. use oil.. Good Luck

 

[cmead]

Great idea and info! Thanks so much.