Winchrite ABT

Mikem

.
Dec 20, 2009
820
Hunter 466 Bremerton
Does anybody have experience with the new and improved Winchrite ABT? My boat has about 1100sq ft of sail area split almost evenly between main and jib. In mast and roller furling. Right shoulder arthritis forces the issue. Thanks.
 
Sep 25, 2008
1,096
CS 30 Toronto
Milwaukee 2704-20: 1200 inch lb, 0-550 r.p.m.(low gear) 0-2000 r.p.m. (high gear) $349.00 + $49.95 = $398.95
Double as an on-board cordless drill.

WinchRite ABT: 1150 inch lb 0-120 r.p.m. (slow speed only) $749.00
Single purpose
 

Mikem

.
Dec 20, 2009
820
Hunter 466 Bremerton
How well has this combo worked for you? How does it fare in weather/spray/ rain? Thanks
 
Sep 25, 2008
1,096
CS 30 Toronto
Had it for 3 years, only to raise sail and quick sheet in for main before gybing. Very high torque. Battery is good for 20 sail raising. Friend on a Hunter 33 bought one too, loving it.
Goes into the locker right after the sail raising and I have a dodger so rain is not a problem. There is no brush and exposed comutator thus better in the rain. It uses electronic switching and rare earth magnet.
Check it out on youtube for brushless drill.
 
Jan 22, 2008
8,050
Beneteau 323 Annapolis MD
The winchbit... reminds me I bought a used short 3/4 inch drive extension. Cut the socket end off and grind three flats onto it for the drill chuck. Grind the square end down to (11/16?) to fit the winch. Alot cheaper, and you won't cry if it falls overboard. Scout the flea markets and second hand shops.
 
Nov 26, 2008
1,966
Endeavour 42 Cruisin
I had a milwaukee 28 volt rite angle drill and winch bit. Very heavy, especially for my wife to handle. And it didnt seem to have the torque to do the job very well.

Acquired the 2nd version winchrite and love it. Battery lasts much longer, much easier to handle. I mounted the holder to the pedistal in the cockpit and ran a 12v wire, cut off the wall wart and spliced in the charger connector. So we have it on charge at the ready, easy to us.

My only complaint is that it is louder than the Milwaukee.

Dont know my sq ft off hand but we are 42', masthead rig of 62' with a 135 gen and in-mast main