Windlass recommendation

[Rickysa]

I have done a search here and read thru just about all of the "windlass" threads...especially the "Ideal removal" thread, and the deck rot info (as I'm sure that's probably in the cards as well).

The Galley Maid on the boat is a hunk of rust. I have 24v going to it. I need to replace it, however wondered what would be the best way to go....chain/no chain, free fall release, etc.

We have never anchored the boat...but for safety reasons and the option in the future I will be installing one. I know a bunch of you folks have a wealth of knowledge on this topic, and rather than delving into another learning curve, I'd just like to hear what you have to say.

Here in NC, it's muddy/sandy bottoms, I don't believe I'd ever anchor offshore (other than in case of emergency)....etc.

All info appreciated!

oh...'85 45C

 

[Timeout]

I added a Maxwell RC series and 220 ft. of chain. Very happy with the results. I was lucky enough not to have an existing hole to cover.

 

[GJH]

The best way to go is to have Ideal rebuild it. Then you have the best windlass on the market for the price of something inferior.

 

[z28jimi]

I disagree. For significantly less than Ideal wanted to rebuild mine and add a gypsy and a reversing motor, I bought a Maxwell RC10-10 with a capstan and a gypsy, and along with the windlass, got new solenoids and new foot switches. The Maxwell has a much higher rated pull (this will get the "how do you rate pulling power" discussion started). Mine is 12 volts, not 24, and I did have to drill all new holes, but I'm extremely happy with the new setup, and was very happy to consign most of the old Ideal to the scrap heap ( I sold the motor to an HOF'er who needed one). Ideal is good, but just because it was OEM doesn't mean there's no better.

 

[SeaEric]

Avoid the Anchorlift windlass product. It's junk, and they do not stand behind their product. See this thread:

http://www.samsmarine.com/forums/showthread.php?20930-Anchorlift-windlass&highlight=anchorlift

 

[dastahl]

We recently installed a Maxell RC12/12 1/2 inch chain windless using 24 volts. We got a chance to use it anchoring on our way to Florida and its great. 14 day trip 10 days at anchor.
The Maxell is almost twice as fast both in and out as the old Ideal. It is rated 35% more powerful than the Ideal. Brand new it is the same price as re-building the old Idea (not including re-chrome which it needed). It free falls better. It has a workable emergency crank system. It is much smaller. It looks better. Downside it makes more noise, which comes from the big chain on the pulpit going much faster. The windless itself does not make much noise.
Also, when we installed the windless at Jarrett Bay we made a shoot to better center where the chain builds up in the locker. Now we have proven that we do not need to manually flake the chain on the way in so it does not tangle in the locker. This is a huge deal because before we had to flake the salty dirty chain every time we pulled it up. Now we just try to wash it off best we can.
Skooch
58 Hatteras LRC
Fort Pierce FL

 

[Rickysa]

Thanks for the feedback all...good info

 

[madhatter1]

Take a look at Good Automatic Windlass Co. I have one and it works great. Freefall drop. Also by design the rode does not need to be tied off after anchoring. The windlass can hold the load.

 

[workingonadream]

I also have a good windlass. good is located in new jersey, I bought right from them. they were very helpful. i needed the extended shaft windlass due to the thickness of the pulpit and the deck.