Servicing keel winch

[newsailor72]

Found a few broken strands in the winch cable and since the winch has some surface rust, so might as do the whole thing.

Plan to soak the winch in some rust remover over night. Is there anything I can put on it afterwards to keep the rust away while not interfering with the winch operation?

For the cable, should I get 5/32" 316 s.s. 1x19 cable?

 

[newsailor72]

Actually, I think it's probably beyond repair, thinking about getting an electric winch from harbor freight, has anyone done that? Any drawbacks?

 

[SteveHughessails]

Good choice to replace it. We installed a new winch. Never considered electric as the task requires minimal effort for us. Post a pic if you do.

 

[douglaskjensen@gmail.com]

By now, you probably invested in some sort of winch. Just in case, you need to get a Winch w/ Automatic Brake. You want the winch to lock in place when you release the handle. Cranking in the opposite direction will allow the keel to lower safely.
Also, $100 compared to $500.
Doug

 

[LLoyd B]

The ratchet winch on my Mac 22 failed causing personal damage to myself. I replaced it with a worm drive winch from harbor freight so I don't have to worry about the keel freewheeling and causing damage to me or the boat when released from the up position.