mast winch for reefing

[splax]

I have been advised that I need a winch mounted to tension the reefing lines through the boom to reef properly. There is a pedestal below the boom on the mast for mounting. What do others use or have ?

 

[JoeWhite]

I would not advise use of a winch as it may tear the sail. Pull by hand only.

 

[DougMc]

Clew must be pulled in tight to flatten and depower main. Very hard to do without a winch, I would use a cabin top one with clutch so the same winch can be used for second and third reef.

 

[crazy frenchman]

We have one on our 40 and the wife lowers the main as I am reefing work's great. On the 28.5 it is a pain in the butt to reef unless you are HEMAN :theman:

 

[Claude L.-Auger]

I have been advised that I need a winch mounted to tension the reefing lines through the boom to reef properly. There is a pedestal below the boom on the mast for mounting. What do others use or have ?

I set my 2 reef lines running to the cockpit so I use the cabin top winches when necessary.