use of bow roller

[jerry]

My newly purchased O'Day 28 is equipped with a bow roller. What is this used for? Should the anchor rode go through the roller and then to the bow cleat while at anchor? Or is this utilized only while dropping or retrieving the anchor?

 

[Griffin]

Bow Roller

I always used the bowroller to store the anchor, deploy it, retrieve it, AND it makes for a great way to keep the anchorline close to centerline as well as providing decent chafing protection. Aside from that, take a look in the catalogs at the larger rollers...you will notice a metal keeper over the roller...that is to keep the rode in place and on the roller.Happy anchoring!Griffin.

 

[jerry]

Thanks Griffin

Griffin - Thanks for the info. One more question: I'm currently at a mooring. Is it preferable to run the mooring line through the bow roller, or through the doohickey (I don't know the technical name) that keeps the line straight before tieing to the bow cleat.

 

[Griffin]

For extended times,

I would run two lines through the doohickies at bow like two span-sets. If you are on a mooring, I would use at least 3/4" line and at least 15' of scope (that would make 2 30' span sets). Additionally, I would get some leather, fire hose or garden hose and make chafing guards at all rub-points. The previous suggestions are from bitter experience. My old boat a 30' Hunter went walk-about in Sarasota Bay off of Oleary's when I was away from her an extended period. Lucky for me I kept a CQR on the roller at all times. A good-hearted and fool-hearted fellow cruiser rowed out in his dink, caught my boat and set the CQR leaving me 10' from the rocks! Saved my home!Fair winds!Griffin.