Help finding a windlass for a new install on 2005 Hunter 33

[kbgunn]

I'm wanting to a windlass in the anchor well on a 2005 Hunter 33 sailboat that did not have an electric windlass installed from the factory/dealer.

The anchor locker on this Hunter sailboat is essentially a well in the deck. I'm looking to purchase a vertical, gypsy only windlass for this application. The rode/chain traverses through the gypsy and falls forward into the well.

The windlass I've looked at on the Lemar website all have a hole and cover for the rode/chain to pass through and drop vertically into a hawsepipe. Other owners report this configuration in the Hunter anchor well causes the rode/chain to bunch up and jam without constant manually adjusting the fall of the rode/chain.

I had a Hunter 38 sailboat that didn't have this problem. Hunter sailboats with a factory/dealer installed windlass have a modified base that doesn't have a hole and cover where the rode/chain exit the gypsy. They have a channel that guides the exit into the fall more smoothly.

None of the windlass on the Lewmar website have this type of base. Has anyone ordered this type of base aftermarket?
Can I order a new Lewmar Windlass with this different base? I am interested in a VX1 or VX1L or similar gypsy only, horizontal windlass.
My inquiries to Lewmar via email have not been returned promptly.

Many thanks for any help provided!

 

[jssailem]

Send a message to @Dave Groshong he works at SBO and might have specific answers to your question.

 

[Hello Below]

I touched base with Lewmar a few years back about the windlass on my 2012 Hunter e33. I could not tell from the labels if it was a V2 or V3 and images from their website did not help me. They responded very quickly. I was told that my windlass is a Lewmar V3 Modified specially made for Hunter. So I would try contacting them and see if they can help out. Other than redesigning the front of the boat I am afraid you do have to manually deal with the chain so it doesn't jam as it is brought in.
Here is a link to
Windlass 2007 Hunter 33 Post

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

If you're handy with a myriad of tools, you can fabricate this setup :

If not, maybe you can have a yard make it for you.

Is your first shot a 2005 Hunter 33 ?

 

[kbgunn]

If you're handy with a myriad of tools, you can fabricate this setup :

Is your first shot a 2005 Hunter 33 ?

That is a clever mounting solution Ralph! And a darn good writeup. Thanks for sharing. The first picture is the Hunter 33 needing the installation.

Do you find any affect on operation with the forward section of the windlass cantilevered over the well? Any vibration, etc? Did you have to modify the under side in the v-berth any for fastener clearances or tool access? Luckily the motor can be oriented in several directions. My mounting surface is flat without the moulded pedestal. But I will certainly take some measurements to see if this solution would work in my case.

I also thought of grinding out the portion of the casting that closes the loop and aligning with the drop slot.

How hard was it to cut the weep slot on your casting?

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

Ah, the way you're set up, it'll be a walk in the park, do it in your sleep. At least in theory. You'll find reality to be somewhat more taxing.

Do you find any affect on operation with the forward section of the windlass cantilevered over the well?

No. It's as solid as a rock with the pedestal and the built in 3/8" aluminum plate. The 3/4" starboard is also very solid because of the small overhang.

Any vibration, etc?

Again none because o f the FG base. You hear it but cannot feel it in the deck under your knees.

Did you have to modify the under side in the v-berth any for fastener clearances or tool access?

No modifications required other than wire supports installed etc.

My mounting surface is flat without the moulded pedestal.

What is the thickness of the FG base ? As mentioned, my pedestal could be used to lift the entire boat if you're ever looking to impress your friends ! I'd be concerned about the strength of yours. Drill a 1/16" hole for exploration.

I also thought of grinding out the portion of the casting that closes the loop and aligning with the drop slot.

It's a VERY interesting direction to go. My only concern is if the chain is even momentarily backed up, it would grind to a halt against the sides of the FG channel. Glad to see you'll be doing your own work.

How hard was it to cut the weep slot on your casting?

Not bad. Started out rough grinding on a bench grinder and finished using a file with a live edge.

PM me if you get going on this install and I'll describe the extreme difficulty in measuring the mounting location for the windlass against the forward wall of the anchor locker. A near catastrophe. Hopefully yours is not like mine was.