I started a thread a few months ago about the new Winchrite electric winch handle. Basically I was trying to find out any history about what seemed an incredible device. As it turned out no one had bought one because the first deliveries had not then arrived.
What I did get was a lot of naysayers some of whom would amazingly prefer to have an industrial drill floating around the cockpit, others doubted the torque would be enough and others thought that the shape was such that you would have difficulty holding it against the torque.
Well having now received my Winchrite I can report the following:
1. My slender partner winched me up the mast without problem. This is a big plus for elderly cruising couples.
2. I then tried it out on one of my crew who weighs 120 Kg without problem.
3. We then went on our weekly round the cans race and raised the main and did some final trimming using the weakest crew memberand finally neatly furled the headsail in 20 knots without problem.
Its an excellent bit of kit and sits flat on the deck without moving even when well heeled. Needless to say I have no connection with the company.
What I did get was a lot of naysayers some of whom would amazingly prefer to have an industrial drill floating around the cockpit, others doubted the torque would be enough and others thought that the shape was such that you would have difficulty holding it against the torque.
Well having now received my Winchrite I can report the following:
1. My slender partner winched me up the mast without problem. This is a big plus for elderly cruising couples.
2. I then tried it out on one of my crew who weighs 120 Kg without problem.
3. We then went on our weekly round the cans race and raised the main and did some final trimming using the weakest crew memberand finally neatly furled the headsail in 20 knots without problem.
Its an excellent bit of kit and sits flat on the deck without moving even when well heeled. Needless to say I have no connection with the company.
