Lowering the Keel
- Thread starter atrometer
- Start date
then rotate the winch handle counter clock wise. you will feel it ease up when the keel is full down.
What keeps it from lowering by itself - no ratchet or anything? My handle has a spring mechanism on it but I don't know how it works?
There should be no lock mechanism on your winch, if there is one then you are in trouble! the type of winch that uses a lock is free turning when the lock is released, that is the type of winch you should have on the boat trailer only.
I'm sure you have the correct type of winch because you mentioned the spring at the base of the crank handle. Yes, as Piper pointed out it has to do with the clutch mechanism. On the keel winch you should be able to crank the handle in either direction but it will always be in a controlled manner, the winch will never freewheel. It can only raise or lower the keel as fast as the handle can be turned.
I'm sure you have the correct type of winch because you mentioned the spring at the base of the crank handle. Yes, as Piper pointed out it has to do with the clutch mechanism. On the keel winch you should be able to crank the handle in either direction but it will always be in a controlled manner, the winch will never freewheel. It can only raise or lower the keel as fast as the handle can be turned.
Just wanted to add that when sailing, make sure the keel is all the way down. My first time out on my C22 swing keel I was not impressed. I thought that this thing tracks like crap. I found out I was not all the way down. Not sure if the cable was wedged on the spool or what. I first cranked it up a little and then down faster until I heard a thump. Tracked great then 