Windlass installation for a 384

[jesse_garman]

I am looking at purchasing a Lofrans Progress II electric windlass similar to the Maxwell VWC. I am concerned that the height difference between the anchor roller and the chain gypsy (~5")will result in a poor angle causing the chain to bind. A teak pad under the windlass will reduce this difference to ~4". All of the installations pictured and described on the site have mounted the windlass behind the forepeak bulkhead, which appears to work. My issue is as part of painting the deck this summer I covered the anchor locker resulting in a continuous deck surface at the bow(I have pics of this project if anyone is interested). I want to mount the windlass several inches forward of the forepeak bulkhead. Unfortunately, this will result in a more acute angle of the chain to the gypsy compared to installing the windlass aft of the bulkhead. Does anyone have an opinion as to whether this will be a problem or not? Additionally, does anyone have any opinions about Lofrans' quality?

Jesse Garman

 

[maluhia]

Why not angle the pad or increase the height? If the angle is to acute, the chain or rode will slip off.
Jim

 

[terry_thatcher]

Jesse: You definitely should consult the windlass manufacturer about installation. At some point, there discrepancy you describe will be a problem. But, more selfishly, I would like to hear about your windlass investigation and selection. I shouldnt' rely on them too much, but Practical Sailor had some doubts about one of the new Lofrans; they like one, but not the other. maybe it wasn't the Progress. On the other hand, they seemed to like the new Lewmar and I am afraid to buy one because I have heard and read horror stories about dealing with warranty claims and repairs. (Some of our 38X folks, however, like the older Lewmars.) I may end up with a Maxwell again if I can't repair my 15 year old Maxwell. How did you decide which way to go?

 

[dickkilroy]

Jesse: I have Lofrans Progress 1's on both of my boats. The one in the Caribbean is 5 years old with 125 ft 5/16 Ht chain and 125 ft of 5/8 rode, its only problem is the foot switches need cleaning on a regular basis. The one on the Morgon up here in Mass. is 4 years old and has had no problems, has simmilar chain and rode. The rode is not acctually 5/8 it is the metric e qual but somewhat smaller so it rides better in the windlass cat. My installation is on the original teak starboard wood which I reinforced with 3/4 plywood. As the teak was in 2 pieces on the original 38-2 the port side is where I open it and kneel while retiriving chain and uncastling it. Works fine and I didn't have to go into the forward cabin.

Finally Imtra up here in New Bedford is the importer and are close to me should there be problems. Down south I'm on my own.

Dick

 

[jimcleary]

Jesse: Is the Lofrans winch a vertical or horizontal axis? If it's a horizontal axis the height of the chain lead shouldn't be a problem. On a vertical gypsy, the lead in angle is critical. If the chain doesn't lead fair into the gypsy it will constantly jamb. The same will happen on a horizontal gypsy if the lead is off center on either side. On the vertical axis your choices are to raise it or angle it until you achieve the correct lead angle.

Jim

 

[jesse_garman]

Thanks for all of the good advice!
Jess