Looking for windlass. Suggestions?

[CTdave]

I'm looking at a lewmar V4 windlass for my 50 conv.
It comes with or without a drum but I can't figure why I would need the drum with a fully automatic windlass. Thoughts?
Any good or bad experiences or your suggestions on other units to look at?

Thanks
Dave

 

[Bob Bradley]

I have an Ideal windlass for my all-chain rode, but I still use the drum. I take the chain out of the wildcat and use the drum to retrieve my rope rode when I anchor in the deep offshore (1800' rope plus 35' chain). My anchor ball pulls the anchor and rides as far as the point where the rope meets the chain, then it hangs up. Since it's heavy (35' of 3/8" chain + 70# anchor) I wrap it around the drum and retrieve the last 100' or so with it.

 

[rwetherington]

You may want to look at a Maxwell windlass they have a rope chain windlass that we install on most boats for Hatteras

 

[GJH]

It's pretty hard to beat the Ideal line for quality and terrific customer service, including lifetime parts availability and advice. Terrific, old fashioned USA company. It would never occur to me to buy anything else. Give them a call and discuss your needs. 401.884.2550

 

[jim rosenthal]

Maxwell are what Nordhavn uses, I think. I think any of the good ones are fine if they are used often and maintained as needed.

 

[CTdave]

Thanks guys!
I'm bouncing between Maxwell & Lumar.
I like Lumar as it's all stainless. I like Maxwell because it's what new Hatts normally use. They both look great and I have found nothing wrong with either.
Next up, under water lights. UGH!!!! too many choices.

 

[Bob Bradley]

I installed the Abyss lights. I like the fact that they are surface mount with minimal thru-hull penetrations. I had to drill 1'4" holes for the wires, and was able to do that above the waterline. Prices weren't ridiculous either.

 

[lumina]

Hi All,

We installed a new Maxwell on our 48' 1974 Yachtfish and love it.

 

[spartonboat1]

You may want to look at a Maxwell windlass they have a rope chain windlass that we install on most boats for Hatteras

Check with Sams...sometimes they have some Maxwell's on hand. I bought mine from them.

 

[CTdave]

Thanks for all of your thoughts guys!
I bought a Maxwell RC10-10 today. Internet pricing was all over the board. $995-$2300http://www.samsmarine.com/forums/images/smilies/confused.gif
I didn't buy the cheapest as they were internet sites I've never heard of & there was no way to contact them. West Marine worked with me & dropped their price from $1700 to $1320,
I figure the $300 difference from the lowest internet price is money well spent. If I ever have a problem, West is right down the street & they are very easy to work with.