Help with identifying windlass

[jip40]

Hi All

I have a 2002 330 express that I bought 1 1/2 years ago, it's been great but needs some tweaking. I had a problem with standard anchor not holding a few weeks ago and had a larger custom anchor made that other boaters in the area use. I need to find out the largest chain links that will go through the windlass (which is the original one installed by Grady).

My problem is that the boat is in FL and I am in GA, six hours away. All of the boat documentation is on the boat. I would appreciate it if someone with a similar year/model would post a response with the make & model of the windlass, I could then hopefully get the info online.

Thanks :noob

Jeff Pollack
jip1940@yahoo.com

 

[ocnslr]

I'm certain that other 330 owners will respond.

But since you are new to the forum, and possible new as a GW owner, then I will suggest you contact GW Customer Service. Give them your HIN and they will tell you what windlass model was installed at the factory.

Every windlass is rated for one size of line, and one size of chain - not a range of sizes.

And I assume you are aware that windlass chain is not the same as the normal galvanized chain used on a non-windlass anchor rode.

Congrats on the 330.

Br

 

[jip40]

Thanks ocnsir

I'm not new to boating but I am new to windlasses. I assumed that the windlass could handle a range of chain sizes (within reason). A captain friend suggested that I add heavier chain as well as changing the anchor - he runs a 2003 306, which I believe, has the same windlass & he claims that the heavier chain works fine on his boat - although when I checked out his setup, the chain was on the deck and not connected to the anchor rode??

Jeff

 

[ocnslr]

I think the windlass is a Lewmar V700, vertical windlass. If so, then it is designed for 1/2" line, either 3-strand or 8-plaint, and 1/4" G4 or BBB chain. Larger chain will not fit properly in the gypsy and will either jam or damage the gypsy. This damage will be in burrs that will, in turn, grab the line and prevent proper operation when the line is in the gypsy.

If not a V700, then whatever make and model it is will still have a specified line and chain size.

Brian

 

[jip40]

I'm having someone go on the boat & check for me.

Regardless of the model, can I use a shackle to connect the chain to the rope or should I have the line woven directly to the chain? Is there a difference in breaking strength?

Jeff

 

[ocnslr]

I'm having someone go on the boat & check for me.

Regardless of the model, can I use a shackle to connect the chain to the rope or should I have the line woven directly to the chain? Is there a difference in breaking strength?

Jeff

A shackle will NOT pass through the windlass. You need to have a spliced connection between the rode and the chain.

You can use a shackle to connect the chain to the anchor, but a swivel connection would be even better - particularly if you are using 3-strand line and not 8-plait.

I recommend you go to this web site to have a rode and chain made and shipped to you. You get to pick the type, size and length of line as well as the size and length of the chain. You can also order the swivel connection for the anchor. http://www.secosouth.com/category/custom_anchor_rodes.html

I just installed a Lewmar ProFish 700FF on a neighbor's boat, and he used that source for a 300-ft rode of 1/2" 8-plait, with 15-ft of 1/4" G4 chain, with the swivel connector.

Brian

 

[jip40]

Brian

Thanks for the advice I really appreciate it.

Jeff

 

[ocnslr]

Brian

Thanks for the advice I really appreciate it.

Jeff

Nice of you to say so, and very happy that I could be of assistance.

Brian