New Windlass - V1 or V2 for 1993 Hunter Legend 35.5 (13000lbs)

[skunther]

I need to replace my Simpson Lawrence Sprint 1000 windlass. Lewmar's website states the most direct replacement is the V1. I'm not sure that this will meet the load requirements though, and am considering purchasing the V2 instead. Does anyone have any knowledge regarding these two units for my setup?

I am in the Salish Sea, where typically a 4/1 scope is used. As such, we're more chain dependent. I will be running 100' of 5/16" G4 chain (possibly to be upgraded to ~200' at some point in the future) along with a 33lb Bruce (original). I currently have ~150' of line attached to the 100' of chain.

I would love to make the upgrade as simple as possible and not have to replace wiring/solenoid if possible, nor to have to make significant modifications in order to be able to mount the windlass, but I will do what is necessary.

Any input is appreciated.

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

Installed a V1 about ten years ago. Calculating the working load can be tricky.

1. What will be the maximum load the windlass will ever see with possible upgrades (an increase in the chain length you had mentioned) ?

2. What is the AWG and length your 12V (+) and (-) cables leading to and from your battereis to your windlass ?

Next, looking at which windlass .

 

[jssailem]

Skunther, you boat is about the same size as my call. You are 2000lbs lighter in displacement and a little less in windage. So you may get by with a lighter anchor system. That is what you are retrieving.

I have a 35lb Mantus with 105ft of 3/8 chain about 160 lbs. I wanted a windlass that privides a fast retrieve and a solid reputation. The Lewmar V3 received high remarks in windlass reviews. Easy to install. Difference between V 1 to V3 is just money and power rating. Very pleased with V3 performance.

Bought an inexpensive auto winch remote in addition to the wired switch remote provided by Lewmar. The remote works as advertised. Lets me go to the bow and manage the anchor.

 

[skunther]

Very clean install @Ralph Johnstone.

Is the x4 calculation based on the max load or working load? If working load, this is to say the V1 shouldn’t pull more than 62.5lbs of ground tackle? My ground tackle is currently ~150lbs. At a 4x calculation, I would need 600lbs working load, which would put me into the V4. If I increase my chain to 200’, then I’d need 1000lbs of working load, which puts me between the V5 and V6. Do I really need so much windlass?

West Marine, which seems to be the only Lewmar dealer in the immediate area that carries their windlasses, only sells the V1 and V2 with 5/16” Gypsies. Their smallest V3 gypsy is 3/8. I was hoping to take advantage of their current 20% off pricing, but perhaps I should be looking elsewhere?

 

[jssailem]

i called SBO. @Dave Groshong He was able to quote me a fair price delivered. Took a couple of weeks. Came in just after Christmas.

Worth a shout to see what is possible.

Here is the report from 2005. Doubt much has changed.

Windlasses: Maxwell, Lewmar Look Good; Lofrans Project 1500 Slips - Practical Sailor

Since 1974, Practical Sailor’s independent testing has taken the guesswork out of boat and gear buying.

www.practical-sailor.com

Just looked up Fisheries’s V1 in stock. https://www.fisheriessupply.com/lewmar-v1-v2-v3-vertical-windlasses

 

[skunther]

Seems the V3 would be the best option for the potential 200’ chain upgrade, but also seems it requires some more mods, such as a larger house breaker at the DC parallel panel (mine is currently 100a) as well as a new chain and rode. Probably a rewire of larger gauge wiring as well. I currently have 5/16” G4 chain and can’t find this unit smaller than 3/8”. I’m also not sure about cost for these mods, Would the V2 suffice?

 

[jssailem]

I suspect the V2 would serve your purpose.

I guess I was brainwashed by Tim Allen on Tool Time. “Bigger more power is always the best option.“.

I ran the power leads direct to the battery power bar. Had the wires made in Everett at the Interstate shop. They used a mechanical swage to attach the lugs to the cables. Not cheap. Needed about 20 feet in my boat. Making Your Own Battery Cables - Marine How To

I can run the windlass off battery alone for short burst needs, but I always have the engine running when I using the windlass. The windlass came complete with the breaker, and the contactor (switching solenoid control) installed in the bow Anchor locker.

 

[skunther]

V2 ordered. 20% off at West Marine seems a pretty sweet deal.

Now I just need to figure out installation...

 

[jssailem]

Read the manual.