sailboat power winch

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Electric winches: a buyer’s guide

• Sam Fortescue
• March 9, 2022

Electric winches are becoming cheaper and simpler to fit, making effortless sailing an affordable option, says Sam Fortescue

Converting to push-button powered electric winches is easier than you might think

Electric winches have been with us for decades, and are often specced as upgrades on cruising boats. But as the idea of all electric yachts becomes more prevalent and battery performance improves, electric winches are also fast becoming more comonplace.

The technology behind it is pretty unimpeachable these days, but manufacturers are always finding small incremental improvements to distinguish their product from the competition.

Take major supplier Lewmar, now part of the US Lippert Group. Its sleek Evo winch, which weighs 20% less than the familiar Ocean range, is available in a fully electric version from size 40 upwards.

And so is its Revo range – designed to backwind so that you can sheet out at the touch of a button too.

Though touted as a racing feature, this is exceedingly useful for shorthanded crew or solo sailors, where it might otherwise mean letting go of the helm to dive into the cockpit and manually slip a line.

An electric Evo 40ST costs from around £2,810, while the Revo version is priced according to exact requirements.

You can use handles in electric winches, but the technology is very reliable. Credit: Mike Turner

An upgrade even allows you to connect two electric winches together, so that one backwinds while the other takes in the slack when tacking – at the touch of a single button.

‘We would not generally sell the Revo winch system to an aftermarket customer, as they require very specific set-up requirements,’ says Claire Martin, group marketing manager at Lippert.

Harken is often considered a step up from Lewmar, with racing pretensions.

Here, too, the basics are well covered with a range of instantly recognisable black anodised self-tailers (bronze and chrome finishes are also possible).

Electric versions start at size 35, and cost from around £2,586.

And the Harken Rewind Radial is also able to backwind at the touch of a button, like the Lewmar Revo.

It goes a step further in that a knob on the winch itself allows you to switch between forward-reverse mode and two-speed winding in one direction.

The Selden E40i has an internal motor. Credit: Selden

This feature kicks in from size 40, costing from £4,168.

Antal is another strong winch brand with a stout electric option in the XT.

You’ll need the control box that houses the solenoids, and should consider the additional load control box, called the WBC.

This starts the winch in its fast gear, then steps down to the more powerful slower speed when the winch reaches its maximum safe working current.

It cuts out altogether when it hits this limit in slow gear. At £3,220.87 for the winch plus more for the WBC, this is not a cheap option.

If there’s a limit to Lewmar, Harken and Antal’s otherwise well-engineered and soundly priced systems, it is the choice of control buttons available.

Continues below…

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There are just two options, both for deck mounting, which have a housing that allows them to be activated with a finger when closed, or by a foot when open.

It doesn’t allow you to put a button on the instrument console or wire it into a digital switching system.

Denmark’s Andersen is reputed for the quality of the build of its all-stainless steel winches, which run from size 12 up to 110.

The E1 is its entry-level electric winch, which operates with just a single speed.

Two- and even three-speed versions start from the 60ST size, which roughly equates to genoa sheeting on a 45ft-plus boat.

The Harken Performa winches are available with manual, electric or hydraulic drives. Credit: Harken

A super-simplified Compact Motor system is available, where all the gubbins from gearbox to controller is built into a single, low-profile unit.

‘It uses a brushless DC motor matched to a low profile planetary gearbox, which requires less space for installation and draws considerably less current than traditional motor/gearbox configurations,’ explains Andersen’s Thomas Galster.

‘Simple electrical installation requires no external control box, and the low profile above or below deck motor allows installation even if the original boat design did not allow for space under the deck for a motor.’

Another nice feature of the Compact Motor is the variable speed system, where a pressure-sensing button controls the rate of rotation: the harder you press the button, the faster the winch will turn.

Pricing for the Compact Motor starts at around £2,250 for the 28ST unit, and £2,940 for an E1 of the same size.

A relatively slim plastic or stainless-steel hinged lid protects the button, which is designed with a built-in LED which tells you when the system is powered up.

Electric winches: connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, however, Selden is streets ahead with the launch of its E40i electric winch (£2,850).

This is unique in its ability to talk to other Selden devices in a push-button system that might include a furling main or headsail.

It uses its own bus network to shuttle information between units and in principle, just a single power supply unit (£592) is required to run all the components.

It is not yet compatible with a multifunction display (MFD) or your NMEA instrument network, but that is surely just a question of time.

The motors involved all run on 42V, which has several benefits over 12V or 24V without running into the restrictions associated with ‘high-voltage’ equipment over 50V.

Electric winches can make sailing shorthanded a lot easier. Credit: Selden/Dan Ljungsvik

This higher voltage means lower amperage during power-intensive use, so wiring runs can be lighter and motors smaller.

This has allowed Selden to engineer a powerful motor that actually fits inside the drum of the E40i winch, so there’s no heavy-duty drilling required to install, fitting on deck exactly as a manual winch does.

Launched last year in Sweden, the E40i has proved popular with boat owners in the 35-45ft range, especially those who sail with limited or inexperienced crew.

‘It’s convenient and easy for everyone onboard, such a simple way to hoist, furl and trim the sails,’ says Anders Lagerberg, owner of a Najad 400 with an E40i installed.

‘I’m experiencing much smoother sailing than ever before, especially when sailing by myself.’

Anderson’s electric winches are all stainless steel. Credit: Anderson

Six years ago, Jeanneau teamed up with Harken to launch the ultimate in connected winches.

A Harken Rewind was linked to a dedicated sail handling display to automatically trim sails without the skipper having to raise a finger.

It could handle wind shifts, gusts and course changes, and even to tack the jib.

Jeanneau had expected 20% of those buying its 50-plus foot boats to opt for the €15,000 system, but it appears to be no longer available, which tells its own story.

Electric winches: main brands

Credit: Lewmar

The Ocean and Evo (above) winches can be electric but conversion kits for manual are also available.

www.lewmar.com

Credit: Harken

Harken’s motor drives the central shaft, using the winch’s gears, rather than driving the drum directly, so reducing the power draw.

www.harken.com

Credit: Antal

Antal says its winches deliver 490W or 700W at the winch drum, compared to a human arm at 400W.

www.antal.it

Credit: Anderson

Andersen winches are distinguished by the use of a ribbed drum surface, which doesn’t abrade ropes like the commonly used rough finish.

www.andersenwinches.com

The E40i’s internal motor means that there’s no big hole in the deck, and no motor protruding into the space below.

www.seldenmast.com

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Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

Electric winches, handles and furlers – a buyer’s guide

• Duncan Kent
• March 14, 2020

From the cockpit to the pulpit, there are Electric winches, handles and furlers on the market that can help take the strain out of sailing. Duncan Kent reports

Maybe you want to spend more time sailing single-handed, or perhaps you’re reaching the age when winching up the mainsail by hand is starting to take the fun out of a weekend sail. Whichever it is, why not accept a helping hand from Mr Volt?

Kitting out a sailing boat with electric winches and furlers may look to be expensive, but if it keeps you on the water isn’t it worth it? In fact quite a few sailors end up moving over from sail to power because they no longer have the physical strength to manually winch in the sheets or haul on the halyards. But the extra cost often works out at considerably more than if they had invested in simply upgrading their sailing yacht.

For instance, a good many manual winches can be electrified by buying a conversion kit (Lewmar, Harken and Andersen all sell manual-electric upgrade kits for their two-speed winches), which often works out costing half the price of a new winch – especially if you’re good with the DIY and can modify the drive unit, and install the electrics yourself. The latter is easier than you may think as all the components are supplied, along with full instructions and an easy-to-understand circuit diagram.

Andersen electric winch

To keep costs down people often just convert one halyard winch, usually on the side of the mainsail halyard. Then, with a bit of clever rerouting of the genoa sheets via one or two new turning blocks, you can often use the same winch for hauling in the bulk of the genoa. This is a fantastic help if, like me, you have a huge overlapping genoa. If you’re feeling a little flush, why not convert one of the primary winches too?

In fact, I’ve sailed on a boat that had one electric primary, to starboard, that could be used haul up the halyards and take in the port genoa sheet simply by taking one turn around the manual winch and then leading the sheet or halyard onto the powered one. This way, once the bulk of the sheet/halyard has been hauled in, it’s easy enough to take another couple of turns around the non-powered winch ready for manual trimming if necessary.

Depending on your boat’s layout, you may want to install a second deck switch so you have a clear view of the headsail on both tacks. The owner had even set it up so he could electrically winch the kedge anchor from the stern – essential when mooring bows-to in a Mediterranean harbour to protect the rudder or for privacy in the cockpit.

Comparison table: electric winches

Reduce friction

In a similar way to reducing your power consumption before planning a new electrical system, it makes good sense to look at reducing the friction in your sail control systems before considering how best to assist you with the hard graft of winching and hauling.

Boats older than 20 years will probably have outdated blocks with plain bearings, as will many of the newer, lower cost production boats. Just spending a few hundred pounds replacing blocks and travellers with ball-bearing versions can reduce frictional loads by up to 40 per cent. Now ally this with a little thought into how you can reroute lines so as to diminish the angle of turn and maybe even take a turn out altogether where possible, and you could find you need half the elbow grease you did previously to hoist the main or sheet in a genoa.

Then there’s the sail plan. Changing to a non-overlapping jib will noticeably reduce the effort required when tacking and you can still save the big genoa for when your kids join you. Besides, with a well-cut jib you’ll lose little speed to windward in a good breeze and if you add a furling asymmetric downwind sail you’ll notice little difference on a reach too.

Modern yachts frequently sport non-overlapping jibs and sometimes even self-tailing headsails, but this usually means the mainsail is bigger to compensate, thereby increasing the effort required to hoist it in the first place.

Reefing can also be exhausting, particularly if you have a single-line reefing system, as they create a lot of friction due to the reefing lines turning around multiple blocks. If you can, use a two-line system – one line for the luff and another for the leech. Okay, it’ll mean a little more string, but it’ll need far less winching effort to drop in a neat reef.

Lastly, regular maintenance of deck gear is essential. If you don’t service your winches every year, not only will they eventually fail, but also the amount of effort required to operate them will increase until half of your hard work is wasted in turning the winch rather than doing the job. The same goes for electric winches – the increased friction will simply decrease your battery power more rapidly and you risk the circuit breaker cutting out just when you don’t want it to, should it become overloaded.

Keep a close eye on any deck switches, too. After a while water can penetrate their seals and if one of these goes faulty there’s a danger the winch or windlass might remain on – possibly with disastrous consequences.

Powered winch handles

Before you start planning to upgrade your manual winches to electric, consider the possibilities of buying a powered winch handle instead. Like everything there are pros and cons of course – as with most bits of boat kit – but we have had many boat owners writing to us to say that they’ve only been able to continue sailing thanks to one of these devices to help them on board.

First, the cons: they’re not particularly cheap, they need charging regularly and they can be lost overboard if the user is careless or loses their balance. Furthermore, if you’re sailing singlehanded it will be much easier and safer if you have self-tailing winches in order to keep both hands on the electric winch handle, as there will be a fair amount of rotational torque once the power really comes on.

The pros: they will effectively electrify every standard top-drive winch on board (although obviously only one at a time) and they don’t require you to modify your boat or install heavy-duty power cables as you would need to when fitting an electric winch.

Winchrite powered winch handle

The most popular is the Winchrite (£599), now in its second generation with more power thanks to a greatly improved motor and gearbox and extended charge duration. Yes it’s still a little noisy, but then so is any electric winch. Being low-geared for maximum power, they’re a bit slow (120rpm), so you might still prefer to pull the bulk of the sheet in by hand before letting the Winchrite take over. It also needs a steady grip to keep it from rotating when under a heavy load.

A recently launched ‘power assist’ winch handle called the ewincher is a little less bulky and lighter than the Winchrite and, better still, has two-speeds, making it more suitable for hauling in and trimming headsail sheets without needing to resort to hauling the bulk of it in by hand.

Shaped more like a traditional winch handle, the ewincher allows the user to winch manually as normal, but then assists when the load really comes on. Alternatively, it can be used purely as an electric winch handle, like the Winchrite. The good news is the 24V battery pack is removable, as with all modern cordless power tools, so you could have a second, back-up power pack sitting on the charger ready for a quick swap out. The bad news is it currently costs close to £2,700, so you really wouldn’t want to drop it overboard!

Milwaukee 8 drill

Another alternative is to use a right-angle cordless power drill, although it would need to be very powerful. A popular model is the 28-Volt Milwaukee drill, which has a 16in (40cm) long handle and is available on eBay for around £400, including a single 28V lithium-ion rechargeable battery. You can even buy a purpose-made, 8-point ‘winch-bit’ or Cranker chuck replacement for this and other 0.5in (12mm) chuck drills. Spare battery packs and a padded cover are also available, but it only has a 220V AC charger so it can only be recharged underway using an inverter.

A note of warning – both the electric winch and the powered winch handle manufacturers strongly advise you not to use any of these devices for hoisting a crewmember up the mast. This is because they have been known to fail and endanger the lives of the crew being hoisted and others below. I, too, wouldn’t condone this practice for my own reasons, but in reality many do use them for just this purpose. If they’re sensible they take additional precautions, such as not relying on self-tailing winch jaws to take the strain and attaching a second halyard with someone else other than the wincher taking up the slack and belaying it between hauls. Having another person standing by at the main power switch in case it gets stuck on is also a good plan.

Of course, the usual point of not using an external halyard to go aloft counts for both manual and powered winches. If a sheave or bearing breaks on an internal halyard at least you’re not going to plummet to the deck!

Electric furlers

Loop eFurler

In truth, headsail furlers on small to medium-sized sailing yachts shouldn’t ever need winching – manually or electrically. If they do then something is usually wrong. Either the swivel bearings are salted up or dried out, the halyard has been hoisted up too hard, or you have halyard twist at the top swivel.

But for those that simply want to ease the amount of physical work involved in sailing, there’s no reason why you can’t fit an electric furler, or an electric winch that the furling line can reach.

Code 0 and asymmetric spinnaker furlers usually have continuous loop furling lines that can require a crewmember to leave the cockpit.

However, since the advent of small but powerful Lithium-ion battery packs other solutions have been developed. The new, German-made Loop EF1500 E-Furler uses a small 18V Li-ion battery pack to drive an electric furler, designed so that it is all neatly contained within the bowsprit pole itself. It comes with a wireless remote control so the sail can be furled and unfurled from the cockpit and a spare battery can be kept in an onboard charger ready for a quick swap out if necessary.

Anchor windlass

Lewmar V1 electric windlass

Cruising sailors, both power and sail, have long been aware of the delights of an electric anchor windlass and since the development of the rope/chain combination gypsy, the whole process of lowering and raising the anchor can be automated by remote control from the cockpit.

Once again the least expensive way to take the strain out of anchor hauling is to find a mechanical windlass that can accept a standard winch handle and then buy something like the Winchrite to operate it. This saves on the expensive and heavy wiring necessary for a permanent electric windlass and doesn’t put so much load on your house batteries.

Windlass comparison table

Power considerations

Whatever way you decide to electrically ‘assist’ your sailing you’ll need to consider the effect on your boat’s electrical energy reserves. An electric winch or windlass draws a serious amount of power when operating, some 80-150A, so make sure your battery banks and circuit protection can cope with this.

While adding an additional battery to the service bank is easy, keeping it fully charged is less so. Boats that have more than one deep-cycle battery need a proper charging regime – usually in the form of a smart alternator regulator and/or more powerful alternator.

But along with more Amps going in and out comes the need for better monitoring and overload control, with careful thought given to the safety of the electrical system. Using wires that are too small in diameter not only lowers the voltage available to the device, but also increases the risk of fire on board should any of the wires overheat.

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

iWinch test: new electric winch handle option

• Bruce Jacobs
• February 11, 2022

The iWinch is a borderline-genuis idea, which allows anyone with a drill to have an electric winch handle on their boat. Bruce Jacobs, tests it out

Sometimes, a solution to a problem comes along that is so obvious, you wonder why it hasn’t been there for years. In my opinion the iWinch, an electric winch handle fitting for a drill, is a case in point.

Some tasks on a yacht are just hard work: getting that halyard up, sheeting in a headsail, tightening the reefing pennant – all big, heavy jobs and none of us are getting younger.

You’ll always get the traditionalists who say electric winches are unnecessary or dangerous as you can’t feel any blockage or snagging. The truth is though, that sometimes having some powered assistance is very useful, especially when you’re sailing short-handed .

If you’ve ever thought about getting electric winches as a solution, you may well have stopped short when you’ve seen the £3,000 price tag (for a common 44 size) – and then there’s the space they need under the deck and the power drain on the batteries. Space and cost are show stoppers for many.

Previously, we’ve looked at the so-called powered winch handles. The WinchRite is probably the most well known, and it is definitely an effective tool; likewise for the Ewincher .

What stopped us using either on an ongoing basis was firstly their size (where do you store them?) and secondly their cost. The WinchRite costs over £600 and the Ewincher close to an eye watering £2,000. Great ideas both of them, but ultimately not something we could justify.

Which brings us to this neat idea. We’re a bit late to the party on the iWinch, but we love it. It’s basically just a winch socket and drill bit combined. It fits into a standard drill, though you do want one with around 90-100Nm of torque, and it will need a 13mm chuck, so do check this. Otherwise that’s it. You have a powered winch handle that’s highly effective, but only costs £55.

We have given the iWinch quite a beasting over the summer, using it on our heavy 60ft expedition yachts where the loads are much greater than you’d expect on a standard 40ft cruising yacht. Every skipper, without exception, loved the iWinch for its utility and practicality, even if it wasn’t seen necessarily as being an everyday piece of kit.

Your drill may not have the full 110Nm torque of the WinchRite or Ewincher, but so long as it has around 100Nm this is such a useful, cheap solution to a problem that you really can’t go wrong with it (other than dropping your drill overboard or risk it getting salted up!).

Highly recommended.

Buy the iWinch now from Force 4

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Other electric winch handles.

The Ewincher is a sophisticated product that can actually be used as a manual winch handle as well as an electric motor. It has a variable speed reversible motor and generates a useful 80Nm of torque.

We tested it in the Norwegian Sea, en route from the Faroes to Arctic Norway, just as the winds hit gale force. The crew were feeling a bit breathless after swapping out our yankee 2 for the yankee 3, the yacht was screaming along and I was feeling guilty about asking them to trim the sails yet again.

I brought out the big yellow handle to general looks of astonishment and amusement, but this died down as I effortlessly trimmed in our headsail and the double-reefed main while drinking my tea. Suddenly there was a host of crew trying to grab the handle for their go and I had my first inkling that this could be a big success.

I did worry we might drop it overboard or that it would run out of battery now my crew had become lazy, but neither happened.

After two hours of hard sailing and trimming, it still had plenty of power, and these were big sails in strong winds. When the warning light did finally come on it took only seconds to swap batteries and we were off and running again.

Price £1,900

Buy the Ewincher from Marine Chandlery

Rachael agreed to try out the WinchRite on the Ocean Crossing Masterclass she was running from Spain to Madeira. This was a crew full of aspiring Yachtmaster Oceans and a serious test for any piece of kit.

Again, it was tactically deployed as the winds reached Force 6 and the loads all became that much heavier.

As a reef was called (a skipper’s perk and what skipper in their right mind would go forward where the hard work happens and it’s bouncy and wet) one of the crewmembers commented that he’d been to the mast so often he was now on first name terms with the deck fittings up there.

He was given the WinchRite and the change in mood was conspicuous. He came back beaming and there was no going back thereafter.

The powerful motor made short work of the next reef and the genoa too. Bearing in mind we are sailing 60ft expedition yachts and the genoa sheet is on a 66:1 ratio winch, this was pretty impressive. The WinchRite doesn’t have the capacity to be used as a normal winch handle, and the battery is built in so when it runs out the unit is unavailable until recharged.

Buy WinchRite from Foxs Chandlery

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Sail Boat Winches: The Ultimate Guide

by Emma Sullivan | Aug 5, 2023 | Sailboat Gear and Equipment

Short answer: Sail boat winches

Sail boat winches are mechanical devices used on sailboats to assist in hoisting, trimming, and controlling sails. They consist of a drum or wheel around which the line is wound, providing leverage to adjust sail tension and maneuver the boat efficiently. These essential components contribute to the overall performance and handling of sailboats during sailing activities.

Understanding Sail Boat Winches: A Beginner’s Guide

Title: Understanding Sail Boat Winches: A Beginner’s Guide

Introduction: Sailing is an exhilarating experience that combines the awe of nature with the technical skills required to navigate the open waters. One crucial component of any sailboat is the winch , a mechanical device that allows sailors to control and adjust the sails. In this beginner’s guide, we will delve into the world of sail boat winches, unraveling their mechanisms, types, and importance in sailing.

1. The Functionality Behind Sail Boat Winches: When it comes to manipulating sails efficiently, sail boat winches come to the rescue. These devices work by utilizing a drum-shaped spool around which sailors wrap ropes or cables called sheets. By rotating this drum with a handle or an electric motor, immense force can be exerted onto these sheets for adjusting various aspects of your sails such as tension and angle.

2. Types of Sail Boat Winches: There are two main types of sail boat winches—self-tailing and standard winches. Standard winches require manual tailing or holding onto the sheet while turning the handle to increase or decrease tension. On the other hand, self-tailing winches feature a built-in mechanism that automatically grips and holds onto the line when it is turned in one direction but easily releases when rotated in reverse.

3. Choosing the Right Size for Your Vessel: Selecting an appropriate size for your sail boat winch is crucial as it will directly impact its functionality on deck. Factors such as displacement (weight), type of sailing (cruising or racing), and anticipated wind conditions all dictate what size winch you should choose. It is advisable to consult experienced sailors or experts who can guide you towards making an informed decision.

4. Maintenance Tips for Optimal Performance: Like any mechanical equipment, sail boat winches require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance throughout their lifespan. Here are some key maintenance tips:

– Regularly lubricate winches to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. – Clean the self-tailing mechanism periodically, as dirt and grime can hinder its functionality. – Check for any signs of wear or damage, such as frayed ropes or loose parts, and replace them immediately to avoid accidents.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid: In the excitement of sailing, beginners often make some common mistakes when it comes to sail boat winches. Here are a few things to steer clear of:

– Overloading the winch: Be aware of the winch’s load-bearing capacity and avoid pushing it beyond its limits. Overloading can lead to premature wear and tear or even breakage. – Not using proper techniques: Take the time to learn proper winching techniques such as tailing or wrapping the line correctly around the drum. This ensures efficient power transfer, preventing unnecessary strain on both you and the winch.

Conclusion: Understanding sail boat winches paves the way for a smoother sailing experience. By grasping their functionality, choosing wisely according to your vessel’s needs, conducting regular maintenance, and avoiding common mistakes, you will unlock an essential skill that truly elevates your sailing adventures . So go ahead, hoist those sails confidently with your newfound knowledge of sail boat winches!

How to Properly Use Sail Boat Winches: Step-by-Step Instructions

Sailing enthusiasts know that properly using sailboat winches is crucial for smooth sailing and efficient maneuvering. These powerful devices are used to handle sails, control lines, and make adjustments on the boat. However, if used incorrectly, they can lead to strained muscles or even accidents on board. In this step-by-step guide, we will take you through the process of using sailboat winches correctly to ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with Winch Components Before embarking on your sailing journey, it is essential to understand the different components of a sailboat winch . The three main components are the drum (where the line wraps around), the handle attachment point (often referred to as the “winch socket”), and the winch handle itself.

Step 2: Assess Line Placement Take a moment to assess how various lines are set up on your boat . Identify which lines go through specific winches or blocks connected to them. Understanding this configuration will help you determine which winch you need to use for each task.

Step 3: Choosing the Correct Winch Size Not all winches are created equal. Sailboats usually have multiple winches onboard, each with a different purpose based on load requirements. Choose an appropriately sized winch based on the size and tension of the line you will be handling.

Step 4: Securely Attach Winch Handle Once you have selected the appropriate winch, firmly attach its handle to the winch socket by sliding it in and giving it a slight twist until it locks in place securely. Always ensure that the handle is fully engaged before applying any force.

Step 5: Winding Lines onto Drum To start winding lines onto the drum, hold onto the standing part of the line (the part that doesn’t move) with one hand while turning clockwise with your other hand on top of the drum using gentle pressure. Gradually increase the pressure as needed, but remember to avoid excessive force to prevent damage to the winch or potential injuries.

Step 6: Releasing Tension When you need to release tension from a line, hold onto the standing part with one hand and use your other hand on top of the drum. Turn counterclockwise while maintaining control of the line’s speed. Always keep track of your fingers’ positions and be cautious not to get them caught between the line and drum.

Step 7: Two-Person Operation For larger boats or when handling heavy loads, consider using a two-person operation method for increased safety and efficiency. One person can handle managing the lines while another operates the winch handle, ensuring smoother coordination and reducing strain on both individuals.

Step 8: Regular Maintenance Proper maintenance ensures longevity and optimal functionality. Regularly inspect your winches for signs of wear, lubricate them according to manufacturer guidelines, and replace worn parts promptly. This upkeep will help prevent unexpected failures at critical moments during your sailing adventures .

By following these step-by-step instructions on using sailboat winches properly, you can navigate with confidence, maintain control over your sails, and enhance overall safety while out on the water. Remember always to prioritize caution and respect for these powerful tools – they are there to make sailing more manageable, more enjoyable, and above all else, safe!

Frequently Asked Questions about Sail Boat Winches: Your Answers Revealed

If you are a sailor or boat enthusiast , then chances are you have come across the term “winch” at some point. Sail boat winches are an essential piece of equipment that play a crucial role in controlling and maneuvering your sailboat. However, despite their importance, many people still have questions about how they work and why they are so vital on a sailing vessel . In this blog post, we will dive deep into the frequently asked questions about sail boat winches to provide you with detailed, professional, witty, and clever explanations.

1. What is a sail boat winch?

A sail boat winch is a mechanical device designed to make it easier to hoist sails by multiplying the force exerted by the crew members. It consists of several important components such as the drum (where the rope is wound), gears (to increase power), and handles (to turn the winch). By using leverage and gearing mechanisms, sailors can effortlessly control high loads and adjust sail settings with minimal effort.

2. Why do I need a winch on my sailboat ?

Well, imagine trying to hoist a heavy mainsail or trim a jib without any assistance – it would be quite the workout! Sail boat winches allow sailors to efficiently handle large loads produced by strong winds and heavy sails. They enable precise control over various aspects of sailing like raising or lowering sails, adjusting tension in lines, and controlling angles during maneuvers. Without winches, performing these tasks would require immense physical strength that could quickly exhaust even the most seasoned sailors.

3. How do I choose the right winch for my sailboat ?

The size and type of sailboat winch depend on several factors such as boat size, rigging setup, type of sailing (cruising or racing), and personal preferences. Generally speaking, larger boats with more powerful rigs require larger winches to handle the higher loads. However, it’s important to strike a balance as excessively oversized winches can be unnecessarily heavy and harder to operate efficiently. Consulting with experts or seeking advice from experienced sailors is always recommended when selecting the right winch for your specific sailboat .

4. Can I use an electric winch instead of a manual one?

Absolutely! Electric winches have become increasingly popular among sailors due to their convenience and ease of use. Electric winches are powered by electricity and can significantly reduce physical effort , making them an excellent option for those with limited strength or on larger boats where loads can be substantial. However, it’s worth noting that electric winches come at a higher cost compared to their manual counterparts, require additional wiring and power supply, and may need regular maintenance.

5. How do I properly maintain my sail boat winches?

To ensure your sail boat winches keep performing optimally, regular maintenance is essential. Firstly, keep them clean! Saltwater, sand, and grime can cause corrosion and damage over time. Lubricating the moving parts regularly using appropriate marine-grade lubricants will help prevent wear and tear while ensuring smooth operation. Inspecting the components for any signs of damage or excessive wear is critical to catching potential issues early on before they turn into bigger problems.

Now that we’ve revealed the answers to some frequently asked questions about sail boat winches, you should have a better understanding of their importance in sailing, how to choose the right one for your sailboat, consider electric options if desired, and maintain them properly for optimal performance. So go ahead – hoist those sails with confidence knowing that your trusty winch has got your back!

Choosing the Right Sail Boat Winch for Your Needs: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you an avid sailor looking to upgrade your sail boat winch? Or, perhaps you’re new to sailing and in need of guidance on how to choose the perfect winch for your needs. Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the right sail boat winch.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that a sail boat winch plays a crucial role in managing and adjusting the tension of your sails. It allows sailors to control their sails effortlessly, ensuring smooth sailing experiences without any manual exertion. But with so many options available on the market, choosing the right sail boat winch can be overwhelming.

To simplify the process, let’s break down some key factors that should influence your decision-making:

1. Size and Power: The size and power of a sail boat winch should correspond to the size and weight of your boat as well as the strength needed for efficient operation. Consider factors such as the size of your sails, wind conditions in your sailing area, and the effort required for control. Opting for a more powerful winch may provide ease of use in challenging conditions or if you have physical limitations.

2. Self-Tailing Functionality: Do you desire convenience while on deck? If so, consider investing in a self-tailing winch. This nifty feature allows for easy one-handed operation by automatically holding onto lines when released or during adjustment. It eliminates the need for additional crew members or using extra equipment like clamps or cleats – definitely handy!

3. Winch Material: When it comes to materials used in making sail boat winches, stainless steel is often a popular choice due to its durability against harsh marine environments. However, aluminum options are lighter and less expensive while still providing decent performance.

4. Gear Ratio: The gear ratio refers to how many turns are required on the handle or drum to turn the line (rope) on the winch. A higher gear ratio will provide greater power, allowing you to control larger sails or handle higher wind loads with less effort. Conversely, a lower gear ratio will require more physical exertion but can be ideal for smaller boats or lighter sail handling.

5. Single Speed vs. Two-Speed Winches: Single speed winches function with a fixed gear ratio while two-speed winches offer the ability to switch between different gear ratios using a secondary speed handle or button. If you frequently sail in variable wind conditions, having the flexibility of switching gears quickly can be advantageous.

6. Maintenance and Ease of Use: Consider how easy it is to maintain and service the winch. Look for models that have accessible parts and clear instructions for lubrication and cleaning. This ensures longevity and keeps your winch performing at its best for years to come.

7. Budget: While cost should never be the sole determinant, it is worth considering your budgetary limitations before making a purchase. Remember that investing in a high-quality sail boat winch may save you money in the long run by providing increased reliability and minimizing maintenance costs.

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to assist you in choosing the right sail boat winch for your needs! By considering factors such as size and power, self-tailing functionality, materials used, gear ratio options, single speed vs. two-speed choices, maintenance requirements, and budget constraints, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision that enhances your sailing experience .

Fair winds and happy sailing !

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Sail Boat Winches

Sailing enthusiasts and boat owners alike can attest to the excitement and joy that comes with setting sail, harnessing the power of the wind, and gliding across the open waters. And when it comes to maneuvering your sailboat efficiently, winches are an essential tool. These mechanical devices make it easier to control and adjust the sails, maximizing their efficiency and ensuring a smooth sailing experience.

However, even experienced sailors can occasionally fall victim to certain mistakes when using sail boat winches. To ensure that you make the most of these valuable tools, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of common mistakes that you should avoid:

1. Neglecting Proper Maintenance One of the biggest oversights sailors often make is neglecting regular maintenance on their sailboat winches . Over time, saltwater exposure, debris accumulation, and general wear and tear can cause winches to become less effective or even malfunction entirely. It’s crucial to clean your winches regularly (especially after every outing), lubricate them with appropriate grease or oil, inspect for any damage or corrosion, and replace parts as necessary.

2. Improper Usage Winch systems are designed specifically for certain operations such as hoisting sails or trimming lines. Using them incorrectly not only decreases their efficiency but also increases the risk of accidents or equipment damage. Familiarize yourself with your specific winch system’s capabilities by thoroughly reading through its user manual.

3. Overloading Winch Capacity Each winch has a specific load capacity which must never be exceeded; otherwise, you risk damaging the gears or even causing them to fail altogether. Make sure you understand your sailboat’s specifications regarding maximum loads per winch size before loading it up excessively.

4. Incorrect Line Placement Placing lines incorrectly on the winch drum is another common mistake made by both beginners and experienced sailors alike. A misaligned line can lead to poor control over sheet tension or cause slipping during critical moments. Always ensure that the line wraps evenly and securely around the winch drum, without overlapping or crossing over itself.

5. Jerky and Rapid Cranking Using excessive force or aggressively cranking the winch handle in a jerky manner can put unnecessary strain on both the winch and yourself. It’s essential to maintain smooth , controlled movements when cranking the winch handle. Distribute your efforts evenly, using your whole body instead of relying solely on arm strength for a more efficient technique.

6. Ignoring Safety Precautions Operating sailboat winches without taking proper safety precautions can lead to severe injuries or accidents. Ensure that loose clothing or jewelry is secured before handling winches to prevent entanglement. Additionally, wearing appropriate gloves will provide you with a better grip while decreasing the chances of rope burns or blisters.

7. Lack of Communication In any sailing endeavor involving multiple crew members, communication is crucial when it comes to working with winches effectively. Failing to communicate clearly about intended maneuvers or anticipated adjustments can lead to confusion and mistakes, compromising both efficiency and safety. Establish clear signals and procedures beforehand to minimize misunderstandings when operating sailboat winches.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll undoubtedly be able to enjoy smoother sailing experiences while prolonging the life of your sailboat winches significantly. Remember, it’s essential always to prioritize safety and maintain regular maintenance routines for optimal performance on your sailing adventures !

Tips and Tricks for Maintaining and Troubleshooting Sail Boat Winches

To all the passionate sailors out there, we know that sailboat winches are a crucial part of your sailing experience. These mechanical wonders help control and trim sails, making your boat glide gracefully through the water . However, like any other piece of equipment on a sailboat, winches require regular maintenance and occasionally encounter problems. Fear not! In this blog post, we will reveal some valuable tips and tricks for maintaining and troubleshooting sailboat winches like a pro.

1. Understand Your Winch: Before diving into maintenance or troubleshooting, it’s essential to understand how your specific winch works. Study the manufacturer’s manual or consult an experienced sailor to gain a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms involved. This knowledge will serve as your foundation throughout the process.

2. Cleanliness is Key: Saltwater, sand, and grime can quickly build up on sailboat winches, compromising their functionality. Make cleaning a regular part of your maintenance routine. Use freshwater to rinse off any dirt or salt residue from the winch drum, gears, and pawls. A small brush can be handy for reaching intricate areas.

3. Grease Them Up: Lubrication plays a vital role in ensuring smooth operation and longevity of your winches . Apply high-quality marine grease to lubricate moving parts such as gears and pawls periodically but avoid over-greasing which can attract debris.

4. Check for Wear and Tear: Regular inspections are crucial to identify signs of wear and tear before they become major issues during your sailing adventures . Pay close attention to the condition of drum bearings, gear teeth, pawls, springs, and screws – any abnormalities should be addressed promptly by replacing or repairing worn-out components.

5. Tension Adjustment: Maintaining proper tension on your winch lines will enhance performance while reducing wear on ropes (halyards) or sheets in use. Familiarize yourself with different types of line grips available for your winch model to optimize tension settings accordingly.

6. Smooth Rotation: Ratchet mechanisms play a vital role in sailboat winches, ensuring that the drum rotates freely when sailing but locks when you need it to. If you’re experiencing excessive resistance or the ratchet is slipping, it may be time to disassemble and inspect these crucial parts for wear or debris accumulation that hinder smooth rotation.

7. Pawl Springs: The pawls and springs are responsible for holding the line securely in place after each winching action. Inspect these components to ensure they engage smoothly and securely with no signs of weakness or damage. Replace any worn-out pawl springs promptly as they can affect the reliability of your winch.

8. Winch Servicing Kit: Consider investing in a winch servicing kit designed specifically for your brand and model. These kits usually contain an assortment of replacement parts, such as new pawls, springs, bearings, and seals – all conveniently packaged together for easy maintenance.

9. Seek Professional Assistance when Needed: Sailboat winches can be intricate pieces of machinery requiring specific expertise for complex repairs or maintenance tasks. If you encounter major problems beyond your capabilities, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from experienced marine mechanics or reputable sailboat service centers.

10. Prevention is Better than Cure: Regular maintenance is key to avoiding unexpected issues during crucial moments at sea. Establish a maintenance schedule and stick to it diligently – this will ensure that your sailboat winches are always ready for action when you cast off!

Now armed with these essential tips and tricks for maintaining and troubleshooting your sailboat winches, you’ll be able to keep them functioning at their best while enjoying worry-free sailing adventures on open waters! Happy sailing!

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WinchRite® ABT by Sailology Cordless Winch Handle

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WinchRite ® ABT by Sailology Cordless Winch Handle is a lightweight, safe, cordless electric winch handle designed specifically for use on sailboats. A perfect addition to your sailing gear, the WinchRite ABT features an efficient 21.6v Lithium-ion battery, an ergonomic design and comes complete with a holder for when not in use.

The cordless WinchRite features an Advanced Brushless Motor for increased efficiency, greater torque, and less internal heat to give you a more reliable electric winch. The WinchRite was designed with safety in mind, it features an integrated rubber inlay for anti-skid prevention and a weather-resistant cover for increased durability and protection. The winch cog contains a unique drive to prevent failure in both rotation directions and will not unthread or snap the retaining screw.

This electric winch handle works on all single and two-speed winches where a standard eight-point handle is utilized. It features a chimed soft start speed acceleration and a sealed circuit board. Operate the WinchRite handle at the lowest speed of your winch to ensure maximum pull and lowest battery consumption.

• WinchRite ABT
• Drive Cog (2 each)
• Plastic WinchRite Mountable Holder (with screws)
• A/C Charger Universal 100V - 240V AC Charger
• Euro/UK/Japan Plug Adapters
• Storage Tote Bag
• Powerful Brushless Dual Direction Motor with Rechargeable Battery
• Electrify All Your Winches for a Fraction of the Cost of an Electric Winch!
• Works on All Standard 8-Point Winches
• Strengthened Gear Box Design
• Universal Multi-Charger
• Safety Chime Soft Start
• Ergonomic Design
• Variable Trigger
• Dual Rotation
• Multi-Stage QA Testing Performed By Manufacturer: 242lbs (110kg) Weight is Lifted and the Unit is Fully Charged

Item Specs:

• Weight: 6 pounds 5 ounces (2.8kg)
• Torque: Achieves 110+NM (81 lb/ft) of Torque to Stall
• Rotation: 0-130 RPM via Variable Speed Technology in Both Directions
• Allowing for Two-Speed Winch Rotations
• Battery: Internal Rechargeable 21.6V Lithium Ion
• Charging: 100-240V AC

This item is of a size or length that requires additional shipping fees.

Lithium Ion Tools can ONLY be shipped Ground to the 48 contiguous United States.

Flammable items can ONLY be shipped Ground to the 48 contiguous United States.

Lithium-Ion Batteries can ONLY be shipped Ground to the 48 contiguous United States.

Free Ground shipping is not applicable to this item.

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Six-Brand Winch Test: Anderson On Top

Anyone who has been on the bitter end of the sheet when a big genoa starts to fill—whipping and shaking with terrifying violence—knows how important it is to have a winch to convert that flailing energy to forward propulsion.

Winches are to sailboats what the inclined plane was to the Egyptians.

They make the difficult easy, place the impossible within reach.

The equivalent of a dozen or more men needed to heave on a square rigger’s halyard or brace is represented on a modern sailboat by a small, precision-made, cylindrical machine packed with levers and gears.

The refinement of gearing and the development of smooth-operating self-tailers has promoted modern winches from two-man to one-man workhorses with amazing power.

Their only negative is their proclivity to induce fidgety idlers to rotate them mindlessly, just to hear the pawls ratchet. These idlers usually can be broken of this annoying habit by shouting, “Winchclicker! Winchclicker!! Winchclicker!!!” If that fails, they generally are put ashore (if in harbor) or put to death (if on a long sea voyage).

Let’s take a close look at two common sizes of winches. They’re all expensive, because they are well-made precision equipment. They’re also among the most frequently retrofitted items; it’s worth repeating here that an oft-heard saying aboard a lot of sailboats is that the winches they came with are not big enough.

In the two categories selected, these winches are from six manufacturers—Andersen (Denmark), Antal (Italy), Barton (England), Harken (United States), Lewmar (England) and Setamar (Germany).

Small Winches The first category is very small winches. Those represented in this evaluation are among the smallest made by five of the manufacturers. One maker, Antal, makes excellent small winches in several sizes, but could not supply one for testing.

Small, single-speed winches, either with a handle or simply snubbing winches, are invaluable on small boats, for halyards, jib sheets, spinnaker sheets, reefing gear, vangs, etc., and handy, too, for many tasks aboard larger boats. Small winches do not come with the self-tailing mechanism; most manufacturers (Andersen is the exception) start the self-tailers with #16s, which also happens to be the minimum size for two-speed gearing.

Small winches are said to have a gear ratio of 1:1. That means they are direct drive. The only power advantage is that provided by a winch handle. It’s simple leverage, with two sets of pawls (one pair to restrain the drum; the other pair to permit the handle to ratchet freely). One turn of the crank is one turn on the drum. On a small boat, the single-digit power ratio provided by the handle often is ample for sheets. Non-geared winches take in line rapidly. Such winches often are used for halyards on somewhat larger boats. (The power ratio is the length of the handle divided by the radius of the drum.)

Snubbing winches, which do not accept a handle, turn in one direction only. They need only a single set of ratchet pawls. If enough wraps are applied, snubbing winches give the user time to get a new grip or to simply hold the line lightly while friction between the drum and the line takes the load.

They provide little mechanical advantage, but snubbing winches facilitate a good utilization of intermittent muscle power, They also have good line retrieval speed, which always is a consideration when dealing with winches.

Simple and trouble-free, they are of great value when the line load is no more than one’s weight or pulling strength. A halyard can be sweated up very taut by the “heave and hold” method of pulling hard on the line perpendicular to the mast with one hand while grabbing slack on the winch with the other hand.

With either small, direct-drive winches with handles or simple snubbers, the line retrieval rate is an undiluted derivative of the drum diameter, i.e. one revolution of the winch hauls in a length of line equal to the drum’s diameter multiplied by that popular symbolic 16th letter in the Greek alphabet. As a practical matter, line in equals line out.

Because they are simple devices, these small winches were not tested.

The Roaring 40s The second category is the very popular “Number Forties.” Winches are given numbers that correspond to their lowest and most powerful gear ratio. The power ratio of a geared winch is the length of the handle divided by the radius of the drum, multiplied by the gear ratio.

The big winches in this test are Andersens, Antals, Bartons, Harkens, Lewmars and Setamars. We tried to include the Australian-made Murray bottom-action winches, but could not find a U.S. distributor.

The versatile #40s—or their close equivalents—serve as genoa sheet winches on 30- to 35-foot boats, for spinnaker sheets and mainsheets on boats up to 48′, and for halyards, topping lifts, vangs, etc., on much larger sailboats.

The #40s in this collection are all two-speed. Three-speed winches usually are found on racing boats; they come in bigger sizes and get complicated and expensive.

All but one of these winches are self-tailing. In the beginning, several decades ago, self-tailing winches were troublesome…as is usual with most new things. Now perfected, the self-tailing mechanisms represent the only way to go on either racing or cruising boats.

Because winches are such beautifully made gear and rarely get worn out, marine consignment shops across the country are clogged with standard winches—mostly Barients—that once were highly coveted (as well as highly priced). We know of at least one instance in which dozens of perfectly usable standard winches were sold as scrap metal.

There even are a few early-model self-tailers (from various manufacturers) showing up now in the consignment shops; they’re okay for moderate duty but, generally speaking, are not good buys because the self-tailing mechanisms often are not as refined as those on current models. In plain English, that means they slip under heavier loads. Many also have abrasive drum surfaces that devour line.

The Test The Practical Sailor test, designed to establish efficiency ratings for winches, involves mounting each winch on the workbench.

To measure the force exerted, a 15″ torque wrench was used instead of a standard 10″ handle. (The extra length of the torque wrench required adjustments in the calculations.)

Sta-Set X, a modern, rather slippery line, was used, with some of the early tests repeated using Regatta braid, a fuzzy-finish line. The theory that because of varying friction a slippery line might produce different numbers than a fuzzy line proved specious.

At the other end of the bench, a tripled length of 1/2″ shock cord held by two eye straps provided the resistance. Shackled to the shock cord was a carefully calibrated Dillon dynamometer with a handy red max needle. The Sta-Set was attached to the other shackle on the dynamometer and thence to the winch. Four wraps were used. A minimum of three generally is recommended for all but extreme loads. The exception was the Setamar, which requires just one partial wrap of at least 220°.

Pulls of 10 and 20 pounds were for the trimmer easy work. Additional pulls of 30 pounds produced some sweat. A pull of 40 pounds probably would be regarded by an average person as a maximum effort; 50 pounds would be something only a bench-pressing girlfriend would do without making some kind of noise.

The numerous pulls produced figures whose averages indicate how close each winch came to meeting its power ratio.

An additional step in the testing was to determine how easy it is to free the line from the self-tailer and ease the line, as one would do in easing a sheet or halyard when coming off a beat onto a reach or run. In the case of the Setamar, this becomes complicated and is controlled by the handle.

The Results First of all, the fact that the smooth-skinned Sta-Set performed the same as fuzzy Regatta braid indicates that the gripping action of the self-tailing mechanisms on all of these winches probably is no longer at issue. There were difficulties when self-tailers were first introduced; that was before it was recognized that the diameter of the drum and the base diameter of the self-tailer were very critical dimensions.

Click here to view the Winches Value Guide .

There appeared to be no slippage. However, the sharpness of the teeth on the self-tailers’ disks may well affect wear on the line.

Dealing first with the small winches, there are lots of places on small boats where the ultra-simple Barton snubbing winch (about $50) would be useful. The almost equally simple Lewmar #6 ($92 in anodized aluminum) has an efficient mechanism; it also comes (for more money) in chromed or polished bronze. The #6 Harken ($108 for aluminum) turns on sleeved bearings and is the smoothest operating.

For small-boat sheets or bigger-boat halyards and vangs, the small single-speed Setamar ($364) makes eminently good sense. The ability to ease a sheet or halyard by turning the handle in the opposite direction, before freeing the line entirely, constitutes, in our opinion, a valuable safety factor. As was pointed out in an earlier, more detailed review (in the February 15, 1997 issue), the drum-less Setamar winches are very ingenious and may represent the design approach of the future. However, they currently are too expensive.

The Andersen #6 ($102), all-stainless, beautifully made, with Andersen’s ribbed drum and needle bearings, commands categorization as top-of-the-heap and Best Buy.

Summarizing now about the large winches, it’s tough to choose between Andersen and Lewmar. But first, let’s review the others.

The little Barton G23 is not comparable with the big 40s. It was included not only because it’s Barton’s biggest winch, but also because it may point to the future. An “Ugly Ducking”, if there ever was one (see photo), the Barton is made largely of reinforced plastic (including plastic needle bearing), but with a stainless steel axle, pawls and planetary drive gears made of sintered stainless, and a stainless sleeve on the plastic drum. The winch is a powerhouse and, along with being very light and corrosion free, requires almost no service. An occasional flushing with an optional light hit of WD40 is all it needs. It’s a $400 workhorse.

Although handsome winches and very finely made, both the Harken and Antal suffer from what appear to be unnecessarily complicated innards that produce some fall-off in efficiency. They suffer especially in their geared high speed modes and make the initial retrieval of line quite slow compared with the Setamar, Andersen and even the Lewmar.

In addition, the Practical Sailor tests revealed that the Harken drum surface caused abrasion on the Sta-Set line that was easily detected visually after only three or four “pulls.” The Harken and Antal have the most abrasive drums.

The Setamar? It’s so different, it’s difficult to compare with the more conventional #40s. It has a number of strong points. The principal ones are that it retrieves line fast (as fast as the Andersen) and easing of a loaded line can be controlled very safely with the handle (after shifting the top ring). Other benefits are that no wraps are needed; it is small and very lightweight, and line wear is the lowest of all.

The Setamar negatives: It is not a thing of beauty; is complicated to strip and clean (which it requires often); takes some “getting used to,” and it is far too costly.

Both the best and the Best Buy is the Andersen, but there’s almost no gap between it and the Lewmar.

The Lewmar, a first-rate value, is part of a line that was completely redesigned a few years ago to simplify the gearing, reduce the number of parts and make the winch both stronger and easier to service.

The Lewmar ranks first in efficiency, a hair ahead of the Andersen, and is easy to disassemble. If it had a drum as good as the Andersen, it would be a toss-up.

The Andersen has a direct drive high gear that retrieves line fast, a good low gear mechanism that may come second to the bearing-packed Harken, but its real forte is the polished stainless steel drum. The drum, a masterpiece of metal-working, is ribbed, which produces very little abrasion because it moves the coiled line up the drum much better than an abrasive drum. The drum should last virtually forever.

A peculiarity of the Andersen is that when the line is heavily loaded, easing the line can be a bit jerky as the line skips from rib to rib. Although initially disconcerting, it is not even a minor problem.

There’s nothing second-rate about any of these winches. They all work very, very well and last a long time if properly cared for. The choice may involve gear ratios, serviceability or even cosmetics (we still believe a good part of a sailboat’s appeal is aesthetic).

If it’s something different you want, try Setamar. If you don’t need a large winch, don’t overlook the “new-tech” Bartons. But for efficiency, serviceability, construction and appearance, our top choice is the Andersen.

Contacts- Andersen, Scandvik, Inc., 423 4th Pl. SW, Vero Beach, FL 32961-0068; 561/567-2877. Antal, Euro Marine Trading, Inc., 62 Halsey, Newport, RI 02840; 800/222-7712. Barton, Imtra Corp., 30 Samuel Barnet Blvd., New Bedford, MA 02745; 5008/005-7000, www.imtra.com. Harken, 1252 E. Wisconsin, Pewaukee, WI 53072; 262/691-3320; www.harken.com. Lewmar, New Whitfield St., Guilford, CT 06437; 203/458-6200; www.lewmar.com. Setamar, Setamar USA, Box 840, 17 Burnside St., Bristol, RI 02809; 401/253-2244.

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Best Sailboat Winches of 2024

Boats are extraordinary vessels that allow us to truly connect to nature. But they live in harsh environments and many of their components have to take enormous loads just to sail. Winches are one of the key parts of a boat that take the strain so it’s important that you choose the best sailboat winches for you.

Just by closing your eyes it’s easy to feel the wind on your face as your sailboat begins to heel over. As the sails catch the wind and the boat accelerates forward, it’s time to ease the sheets a little. This is where the winch takes over. Weak, undersized or seized winches can spell disaster. If yours are getting old, it could well be time to replace them.

We’ll help you sort out what’s good, what’s not, and what the difference is. Keep reading to find your perfect sailboat winches.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailboat Anchors .

QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST SAILBOAT WINCHES

• Lewmar Two-Speed
• Harken Radial
• Andersen Two-Speed
• Harken Two-Speed
• Lewmar Evolution Electric
• Antal Two-Speed
• Lewmar Two-Speed Non-Self-Tailing
• Andersen One-Speed
• Lewmar One-Speed
• Harken Single Speed

SAILBOAT WINCH REVIEWS

Lewmar two-speed.

Check out the latest price on: Amazon

BEST FOR: Lightweight primary winches

SELF-TAILING: Yes

MATERIAL: Anodized aluminum

PROS: Lightweight for those who want to keep weight down, sleek in black, long warranty, very simple to take apart and put back together for maintenance

CONS: Not as hard-wearing as bronze, black winch gets very hot in the tropics

HARKEN RADIAL

BEST FOR: Heavily used primary winches

MATERIAL: Chromed bronze

PROS: Very durable and long-lasting, easy to maintain and take apart, upgrade/convert to electric with ease, grippy surface lessens friction

CONS: Quite pricey, short warranty, much heavier than the Lewmar Two-Speed

ANDERSEN TWO-SPEED

Check out the latest price on:

BEST FOR: Primary winches looking to impress

MATERIAL: Stainless Steel

PROS: Extremely beautiful to look at, lightweight, durable

CONS: You’re paying extra for the impressive full stainless steel look, not as durable as bronze

HARKEN TWO-SPEED

BEST FOR: Primary winches using different size lines

PROS: Spring-loaded self-tailing jaw secures different size ropes, shaped drum holds rope without friction, very simple to maintain and put back together, easy to mount, lightweight, convertible to electric

CONS: Very expensive for added extras that may not be necessary

LEWMAR EVOLUTION ELECTRIC

BEST FOR: Older sailors wanting easy-to-use primary winches

PROS: Easy to install below-deck motor, choice of finishes in alloy black or chrome, long warranty

CONS: Quite heavy including the motor, pricey if you don’t absolutely need electric

ANTAL TWO-SPEED

BEST FOR: Hard-wearing primary winches

PROS: Very durable in chromed bronze, reasonably light for bronze, spring-loaded jaws to take different size ropes, easy to maintain

CONS: Paying extra for chromed look yet still lacks the wow factor of Andersen’s full stainless steel winches, short warranty

LEWMAR TWO-SPEED NON-SELF-TAILING

BEST FOR: On-mast or racing winches

SELF-TAILING: No

PROS: Bronze construction offers exceptional longevity and durability, grippy drum, two speed offers greater flexibility for use

CONS: A little pricey for non-self-tailing although great materials, short warranty

ANDERSEN ONE-SPEED

BEST FOR: Eye-catching racing and on-mast winches

PROS: Looks incredible, smooth drum allows rope to pass easily, easy adjust sheets while racing, aluminum and bronze plates inside for extra durability, great price

CONS: Short warranty, some sailors will prefer a grippy or shaped drum as opposed to smooth

LEWMAR ONE-SPEED

BEST FOR: Bargain on-mast or racing winches

PROS: Very affordable, good for older yachts with on-mast winches, excellent Lewmar construction

CONS: Not as hardwearing as Lewmar’s bronze version, short warranty

HARKEN SINGLE-SPEED

BEST FOR: Primary winches for smaller sail areas

PROS: Great price for a self-tailer, radial drum gives grip on rope with needing friction, very easy to maintain and put back together, spring-loaded jaws for holding different size ropes

CONS: One-speed is ideal for smaller sail areas but you may struggle with larger sails, lightweight but not as durable for primary winches as bronze

COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST SAILBOAT WINCHES

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SAILBOAT WINCHES

1. how many winches do you need.

Well made winches can last for many decades but can need replacing for several reasons. Winch technology has moved on and you may want to replace non-self-tailing winches for self-tailing ones. Or your winches may simply be corroding or weakening through age.

It’s often easy to find out how many winches you need by simply counting the existing ones on your sailboat. Rarely used winches may be in much better condition than the same age highly used winches. This allows you to retain rarely used old winches and put the saved money into buying better quality new winches. While that liveaboard boat you hung out on may have had ten winches, chances are, a small yacht will only have two to seven.

Knowing how many winches you need allows you to stick to your budget more closely. You probably won’t need every winch to be the same either. With self-tailing winches ideal for cockpit primary winches, winches on the mast often don’t need to be self-tailing. Further savings can be made from understanding what type of winches you need.

2. DO YOU WANT SELF-TAILING WINCHES?

For short-handed sailors, self-tailing winches are all but essential. In fact, having primary self-tailing winches regardless of your crew size will make the cruising sailboat an easy place to be. Of course, if you have a really big yacht, you can use two-way radios to give winchman instructions!

On sailboats where some lines are lead back to the mast and not to the cockpit (i.e. many older sailboats), you don’t need self-tailing winches on the mast. Often you can just get away with a non-self-tailing winch and a cleat nearby.

Sheet winches should ideally be self-tailing while halyard winches can be non-self-tailing.

Winches give you leverage with which to pull in the sails but in particularly strong winds or racing conditions, extra leverage is required. Geared winches provide this extra leverage. With one to four gears, geared winches are also excellent for taking the load for hobby sailors, older sailors and even enthusiastic children!

For an ordinary cruising sailboat (even those who do a spot of club racing), you’ll be choosing between one-speed and two-speed geared and non-geared winches. Three- and four-speed winches are only used by powerful racing boats.

One-speed winches that aren’t geared are the cheapest type of winch and only suitable for small sailboats or as on-mast winches.Each turn of the winch handle equals one turn of the drum, making these unsuitable for large loads.

Geared one-speed winches offer greater mechanical leverage and the handle is ratcheted when turning in the opposite direction. This gives you more power for less movement when cranking up that sail to windward.

Two-speed winches allow the handle to travel in either direction at different speeds. This is great for fast winching with one speed and then switching winching direction for a lower speed as the sail comes in. Two-speed winches typically are geared in one direction and not in the other.

Geared two-speed winches are the same except they are geared in both directions. For the average cruising sailboat or daysailor, geared two-speed primary cockpit winches are the best option. This is especially true for single- or double-handed sailing.

4. MATERIAL

Winches come in different materials. The differences are primarily based on weight, quality, and price.

ANODIZED ALUMINUM

Super lightweight and affordable, anodized aluminum winches are a popular choice on sailboats.

CHROMED BRONZE

Bronze is extremely hardwearing, making it a good choice on sailboats. Bronze was the traditional material for winches but it looks outdated on modern yachts. Chromed bronze makes the most of the durable bronze but adds a modern look with a chrome outer layer. These are pricey but excellent winches.

STAINLESS STEEL

If you’re looking for the best and most durable winches, stainless steel is the way to go. It also looks great and it’s extremely strong. If you look after your stainless steel winches, you may never need to replace them.

Composite boat parts are increasing every year although many traditional sailors prefer metal. Composites are actually very strong, very durable and are impervious to corrosion. The main composite material used in winches (and seacocks) is Marelon. Expensive, but you’ll probably never need to replace them.

5. ELECTRIC WINCHES

Manual winches work by human strength combined with mechanical leverage. For small sailboats, the average sailor will be perfectly happy with manual winches. However, electric winches are becoming more popular and can certainly be of benefit.

Electric winches have a motor placed above-deck or below-deck. Using buttons, electric winches grind the rope for you and some will even release it for you as well.

The main downside of electric winches is their power consumption. As a sailor, you obviously don’t want to be forced to run your engine often just to charge the batteries for your winches! Always check your house battery capacity and work out how much power the winches will use on your typical sailing trips.

Electric winches also have the capacity to act as manual winches in combination with a standard winch handle. This is important because if your batteries or electrical system fails, it’s imperative that you are able to still operate your winches if you’re under sail.

CONVERSION OPTION

Some sailors want manual winches but would like to have the option to convert those winches to electric. Winches can last many decades and as sailors age, having the option of electric conversion can be reassuring.

Size is another important consideration and is based on boat size and sail area. You can often determine your winch size merely by your existing winches but the main providers also provide charts. Lewmar winch size chart is an excellent resource as is the Harken winch size guide .

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Sailboat Anchors

Sailboat Winches

Sailing Shoes

Solar Panels for Sailboats

Bilge Pumps

• Sailboat Hardware

Sailboat Winches

Our sailboat winches selection offers the best options available in the market to help you pull the halyards, sheets or any other loaded line on your sailboat, regardless if it is racing, club/racing or cruising. 

Our sailing winch collection includes classic bronze Harken winches and modern Performa models, which feature an exceptional grip and avoid overrides. Our Antal, Creation, and Lewmar winches also offer superior performance at a great price. Evo winches feature a very installation-friendly configuration as well as a simple interior. Andersen winches offer a bulletproof stainless steel construction that exceeds the standard durability of any other drum material. They’re ideal for liveaboards and offshore passage makers sailboats.

Shop our sailboat winches and sailboat winch parts now!

Selden Winch Pad 140mm

Lewmar 50 Evo Feeder Arm Spare

Ronstan Winch Handle QuickLock Alloy, 254mm (10"), Palm Grip

Ronstan Winch Handle QuickLock Alloy, 254mm (10"), Single Grip

Ronstan Winch Handle QuickLock Alloy, 200mm (8"), Single Grip

Selden r52 reversible winch.

Harken Wincha Handle Adapter for SnubbAir 1300 Winch

Harken Snubb AirLow Profile Winch (does not include winch handle adapter)

Andersen Winch 18 Classic, Two Speed

Andersen 62ST Winch FS

Andersen 58ST Winch FS

Andersen 52ST Winch FS

Andersen 46ST Winch FS

Andersen 40ST Winch FS

Andersen 28ST Winch FS

Andersen 18ST Winch FS, Single Speed

Andersen 12ST Winch FS, Single Speed

Andersen 72ST Winch FS

Andersen 68ST Winch FS

Andersen 50ST Winch FS

• Sailing Supplies

Sailboat Winches

Lewmar Winch Handle Pocket

Lewmar Winch Handle Pocket This Lewmar Winch Handle Pocket will mount anywhere in a vertical position and fits 10" standard winch handles. With 4 mounting holes, 3 at the top and one at the base, this winch handle pocket is easy to install. Made of soft...

Rod Saver Winch Strap Replacement - 20

Winch Strap Replacement - 20'Replacement strap made of a 7,000 lb. polyester belt and 6,600 lb. drop forged snap hook. Includes a bolt and nylon lock nut for drum installation.Technical Specifications:Rated Capacity - 5,000 lbWorking Load - 1,665...

Lewmar One Touch Standard Grip Winch Handle 8"

Lewmar One Touch Standard Grip Winch Handle 8" This Lewmar Standard Grip Winch Handle features Lewmar's One Touch technology. Lewmar's award-winning One Touch allows you to lock in and remove the winch handle with one hand. Simply squeeze the release...

Lewmar One Touch Power Grip Winch Handle 10"

Lewmar One Touch Power Grip Winch Handle 10" This Lewmar Power Grip Winch Handle features Lewmar's One Touch technology. Lewmar's award-winning One Touch allows you to lock in and remove the winch handle with one hand. Simply squeeze the release lever,...

Lewmar 30ST EVO Two-Speed Self-Tailing Winch-Grey

Lewmar 30ST EVO Two-Speed Self-Tailing Winch-Grey Alloy The Lewmar EVO Self-Tailing Winch is a state-of-the-art winch. This self-tailing winch is easy to service, and has user friendly direction arrows.  Features: Easy servicing - no tools...

Lewmar 16CST One Speed Self-Tailing Winch

Lewmar 16CST Chrome Self-Tailing Ocean Winch - One-Speed Lewmar winches are designed with both cruising sailors and racing crews in mind. Lewmar's Ocean winch is their most popular winch. Its styling attracts boat builders looking for a more classic...

Lewmar 30CST EVO Two-Speed Self-Tailing Winch

Lewmar 30CST EVO Two-Speed Self-Tailing Winch - Chrome The Lewmar EVO Self-Tailing Winch is a state-of-the-art winch. This self-tailing winch is easy to service, and has user friendly direction arrows.  Features: Easy servicing - no tools...

Lewmar 30ST EVO Two-Speed Self-Tailing Winch

Lewmar 30ST EVO Two-Speed Self-Tailing Winch - Black Alloy The Lewmar EVO Self-Tailing Winch is a state-of-the-art winch. This self-tailing winch is easy to service, and has user friendly direction arrows.  Features: Easy servicing - no tools...

Lewmar 16AST One-Speed Self-Tailing Winch

Lewmar 16AST One-Speed Aluminum Ocean Winch - Self-Tailing Lewmar winches are designed with both cruising sailors and racing crews in mind. Lewmar's Ocean winch is their most popular winch. Its styling attracts boat builders looking for a more classic...

Lewmar One Touch Standard Grip Winch Handle 10"

Lewmar One Touch Standard Grip Winch Handle 10" This Lewmar Standard Grip Winch Handle features Lewmar's One Touch technology. Lewmar's award-winning One Touch allows you to lock in and remove the winch handle with one hand. Simply squeeze the release...

Rod Saver Winch Strap Replacement w/Safety Strap - 16

Winch Strap Replacement with Safety Strap - 2" x 16'2" x 16' Replacement winch strap with 30" safety strap and 3,970 lb. drop forged snap hook. The winch strap is constructed of 7,000 lb. polyester belt and 6,600 lb. drop forged snap hook. Includes a...

Rod Saver Heavy-Duty Winch Strap Replacement - Yellow - 3" x 20

Heavy-Duty Winch Strap Replacement - Yellow - 3" x 20'A 3" x 20' wide Yellow Heavy Duty Replacement Winch Strap constructed with 10,000 lb. webbing and a 10,000 lb. drop forged snap hook. For use on 3" wide winch strap drums. Specifications:Length...

Lewmar 30CST Two-Speed Self-Tailing Winch

Lewmar 30CST Chrome Two-Speed Self-Tailing Winch Lewmar winches are designed with both cruising sailors and racing crews in mind. Lewmar's Ocean winch is their most popular winch. Its styling attracts boat builders looking for a more classic look, or...

Rod Saver Winch Strap Replacement w/Safety Strap - 20

Winch Strap Replacement with Safety Strap - 20'20' Replacement winch strap with 30" safety strap and 3,970 lb. drop forged snap hook.  The winch strap is constructed of 7,000 lb. polyester belt and 6,600 lb. drop forged snap hook. Includes a bolt...

Lewmar 15CST EVO One-Speed Self-Tailing Winch

Lewmar 15CST EVO One-Speed Self-Tailing Winch - Chrome The Lewmar EVO Self-Tailing Winch is a state-of-the-art winch. This self-tailing winch is easy to service, and has user friendly direction arrows.  Features: Easy servicing - no tools...

Harken 40 Self-Tailing Radial Aluminum Winch - 2 Speed

40 Self-Tailing Radial Aluminum Winch - 2 SpeedThe Radial winch drum’s gripping surface is shaped for each winch size and drum material and features diagonal ribs (rather than textured abrasive materials) to maximize gripping power and greatly...

Andersen 28 ST FS - 2-Speed Self-Tailing Manual Winch - Full Stainless Steel

28 ST FS - 2-Speed Self-Tailing Manual Winch - Full Stainless SteelPower Rib™ANDERSEN Winches© feature the Power Rib™. Unlike other winches with abrasive drum surfaces, ANDERSEN winch drums have vertical ribs running up the surface. This...

Andersen 34 ST FS - 2-Speed Self-Tailing Manual Winch - Full Stainless Steel

34 ST FS - 2-Speed Self-Tailing Manual Winch - Full Stainless SteelPower Rib™ANDERSEN Winches© feature the Power Rib™. Unlike other winches with abrasive drum surfaces, ANDERSEN winch drums have vertical ribs running up the surface. This...

Andersen 40 ST FS - 2-Speed Self-Tailing Maunal Winch - Full Stainless Steel

40 ST FS - 2-Speed Self-Tailing Manual Winch - Full Stainless SteelPower Rib™ANDERSEN Winches© feature the Power Rib™. Unlike other winches with abrasive drum surfaces, ANDERSEN winch drums have vertical ribs running up the surface. This...

Andersen 46 ST FS 2-Speed Self-Tailing Winch - Full Stainless Steel

These compact boat parts are one of the most powerful and utilized pieces of equipment on a sailboat. Sailboat winches are capable of pulling several tons of weight; however, they take up very little deck or railing space. Sailboat winches take on a lot of wear and tear and are easily damaged with their constant use. Even the most experienced sailors will have to replace damaged winches from time to time.

When it is time to replace or repair your sailboat winches, Wholesale Marine carries a large selection from the leading marine brands like Ronstan , Lewmar , Barton Marine , and Andersen . Each manufacturer provides quality winches and parts that are a great choice for most sailboats.

We Offer Great Sailing Products at Great Prices

Sailboat winches come in a variety of different styles, but the most common are snubber, plain top, self-tailing, or electric. A common winch for smaller dayboats or dinghies is the snubber winch. We carry the Barton Marine 21101 that is a great economical lightweight option. For a single-speed winch, we also offer a selection of Barton Single Speed winches.

A popular winch-type are the self-tailing winches that free up a hand and hold the line in place while you’re turning the winch. They are a great option for solo sailors. Wholesale Marine carries both single and double-speed options. The Lewmar 30CST EVO Two-Speed Self Tailing Winch is easy to install, and its user-friendly design makes it a great two-speed option. The Lewmar 15CST EVO One-Speed Self-tailing Winch is a durable option that will provide years of reliable use.

No matter what type of boat parts and accessories you need, including parts for your sailboats, Wholesale Marine has you covered. We offer a full line of sailboat winches and winch parts, including handles and winches. Our experienced customer service team is here to help answer any questions you may have regarding parts that are right for your sailing needs. Contact us Monday through Friday From 9:00 AM until 6:00 PE EST at 877-388-2628. Make sure to ask about our Captain’s Club Rewards Program for additional savings on all your future purchases at Wholesale Marine.

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What Car Needs

5 Best Electric Boat Trailer Winches [2023 Reviews]

‘Set Sail for Adventure! – Best Electric Boat Trailer Winch ‘

A winch is lifting and pulling gear designed to lift big weights. A weight is lifted by winding a rope, a wire, or a cable around a drum. It might be portable, stationary, manual, electric, or hydraulic, mainly depending on the use.

The word “boat winch” refers to a variety of mechanisms. Mainly the boat winch is put on a trailer for pulling a boat. The winch is located at the front of the trailer, closest to the towing vehicle, to assist in hauling the vessel onto the trailer.

Choosing a boat winch isn’t always easy, so we’ve put together a list of the top 5 electric boat trailer winches, along with a guide to help you buy those.

• 1 Best Electric Boat Trailer Winch At A Glance!
• 2.1 1. Bravex Electric Boat Winch
• 2.2 2. Megaflint Trailer Winch for Boats
• 2.3 3. Champion Power Trailer Winch for Boats
• 2.4 4. Bravex Boat Trailer Electric Winch
• 2.5 5. Master Lock Portable Electric Winch
• 3.1 CHOOSING THE RIGHT CABLE
• 3.2 CONSIDER THE RIGHT POWER SUPPLY
• 3.3 LIFTING CAPACITY
• 4 Final Cut

Best Electric Boat Trailer Winch At A Glance!

5 Best Electric Boat Trailer Winch Reviews

1. bravex electric boat winch.

If you’re looking for a boat trailer winch, this one is the best alternative to consider. It incorporates a pulley system inside the box that generates power doubling the power more than other ordinary pulling systems. According to the manufacturer, the motor output is up to 30% more than the electric winches of its classes.

This electric winch is an ideal choice for boat trailers. It is a versatile pulling system you can use for both hauling and spooling. It performs equally even when you use it for power in and out. Moreover, the dual modes of operation allow you to use it as a manual kit or electric when necessary. Unlike jeep winches , it also permits to convert to a hand winch in an emergent circumstance. What you need is to have a crank for that.

The galvanized steel cable is another unique aspect of this winch to consider. It has rolling power of up to 6,000 lbs; a pulling capacity is up to 2,000 lbs. It has a sturdy design, meaning it can haul heavyweight. An external shield it includes is an excellent safeguard for the deterioration process.

This boat trailer winch got high marks among the 12-volts boat winch reviews since it produces no or low noise. Though it comes with a steel cable, no obnoxious sound we found from it. It induces a sound of fewer than 75 decibels.

The winch offers safety features for added security. An automatic brake mechanism it comes with prevents the handle from turning for excessive weight. The consequence is that the possibility gets decreased when you worry about unwinding the steel cable.

• Safe and secure
• Easy to install
• Efficient remote control
• Excellent pulling capacity
• A bit tricky instructions to some users
• Plastic cover

2. Megaflint Trailer Winch for Boats

We can use this device as a manual or electric winch due to its dual-mode functionality. For lighter weights, we suggest utilizing it as a manual winch. We use it as an electric winch to haul a bigger boat with less effort. The finest part is that it ratchets quietly and efficiently. It is in stark contrast to other noisy and obtrusive electric winches, particularly when loaded with a heavyweight.

Another reason this motorized boat winch stands out is its ease of use. It comes with a 9′ 9″ corded remote control. You’ll be capable of operating the winch from a distance. All you have to do is push the rocker button to power the winch on and off.

On a technical level, this electric boat trailer winch is outstanding. We were quickly sucked in by its incredible specifications. This 6000-pound boat trailer winch is very capable of rolling and pulling. Additionally, it has a 12-volt direct current motor that generates up to 30% more power than other electric winches.

We appreciate Megaflint for including mechanical friction and a dynamic brake on this trailer winch. These additional features prevent the coil from unwinding under strain, resulting in safer loading and unloading.

• Not too much noisy
• Offers both manual and electric mode
• Remote control
• Not adapted to continuous use

3. Champion Power Trailer Winch for Boats

Champion winches are the industry’s finest. The majority of these winches are small and durable. They are manufactured by Champion Power Equipment . This firm, which has been in business for 17 years, manufactures a range of power equipment.

Champion’s 2000 lb winch is of exceptional quality and design, making it a customer favorite. Additionally, this winch kit is of excellent quality and quite dependable. You may want to get this winch kit because it can perform a wide variety of tasks. This winch is suitable for trailer, UTV, and ATV applications since it is efficient and adaptable to perform well on tough terrain.

Additionally, the installation of this winch kit is extremely easy and simple. Overall, the Champion 2000 lbs winch kit is excellent. It has a robust design and is quite handy.

It is good to know that it has one horsepower motor. Its 12 volts magnetic DC motor provides consistent pulling force and excellent control while winching. Moreover, the 2000 lbs Champion offers a 153:1 gear ratio with a line speed of 3.3 feet per minute when empty; and 10.5 feet per minute when fully loaded, which is very convenient.

• Easy installation
• Strong steel rope
• Excellent quality-price ratio
• Comes with clear instructions
• The motor needs cooling
• Very much noisy

4. Bravex Boat Trailer Electric Winch

This electric Bravex winch is powered by a 12-volt direct current motor and has a rated draw capability of 6,000 pounds when used with rolling loads.

Capacity varies according to task type. The winch has a capability of 5,000 pounds for marine weights and 2,000 pounds for pulling loads.

The winch is equipped with a 30-foot galvanized steel rope that is secured at one end with a hook for further security. Due to the cable’s simple carry-in design, the winch is very portable.

Winch operations enable dual-direction rope motion — spooling out and drawing in.

Another notable feature of the winch is its manual hand crank control in addition to the standard electric control system. The manual option is sometimes very useful in emergency circumstances.

This electric winch motor is geared to provide 20% more power than a standard trailer winch motor.

On the safety front, this Bravex model has an autonomous braking system.

This device prevents the load from sliding even when the power source is interrupted. Finally, the winch’s design guarantees that operations occur quietly.

The Bravex electric winch is superior to a manual winch, and it also has a manual mode for emergency use. The operation is silent, making it ideal for usage in and around the home and for recreational purposes. Moreover, you’ll like its quality-price ratio.

• Remote control pulling kit
• Really easy to install
• Clear instructions
• Dual direction and operating mode
• The cord not enough longer
• Somewhat noisy for some users

5. Master Lock Portable Electric Winch

With this product, the weight of your boat will never be a problem. The galvanized cable steel ensures that it pulls effortlessly. This 5,000 lbs boat trailer winch is capable of hauling and rolling cargo.

This rugged electric winch has a permanent steel hook linked to the wire. In this manner, the hook will certainly remain attached to the chain or tow strap. The enclosed motor is fully secure and protected from external factors.

Electric winches are prone to malfunction. Fortunately, this model has a backup hand crank, which allows converting quickly to a manual winch. Versatile winch systems allow converting into a manual winching option for favorable assistance. Improvesailing has invented 3 ways to convert winches into manual winch – here’s how .

It comes with a variety of mounting options. You can put it on a level surface or ball-mount hitch, matter what. Already a mounting plate is available.

Additionally, you’ll like the toggle remote with a strap. It also has a 9′ 9″ rope, which controls the winch’s movement even when you are not present in the central unit. Anyone can easily stand out of the trailer’s path.

• Remote control system
• Strong steel cable
• A permanent hook with the winch cable
• Back-up hand crank when the electric mode fails
• Somewhat noisy
• Shorter power cord

Best Electric Boat Trailer Winch Buying Guide!

You can quickly feel lost if you are not familiar with this field because buying an electric boat trailer winch is not an easy thing to do. We, therefore, recommend that you pay attention to four vital features as follows:

In a hurry?

• cheap winch for jeep
• UTV winch kit
• best winch for polaris ranger 1000

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CABLE

Two cable types

The first one that is not suitable for nautical use is the steel cable. It has the pros of being low cost but faces many disadvantages. Steel cable is heavy, inconvenient, sensitive to corrosion, stiff, and difficult to wind, requires gloves to avoid cuts on the hands, dangerous in case of breakage.

Synthetic cable perfectly adapts to nautical use. Indeed, it is very easy to use, stronger than steel, very light, has no spring effect, has no risk of a hand injury, does not rust, is insensitive to UV and seawater, and is easy to wind up. However, it has some deficient sides, such as being prone to cutting the rope if it rubs on a sharp or rough edge (scratching to be avoided), and it is usually more expensive than a steel rope.

So, which one is best? Read here .

CONSIDER THE RIGHT POWER SUPPLY

The fact is that 12-volt electricity is a must to operate the winch. You have three possible options for this:

• Take the power supply directly from the battery of the towing vehicle.

Note: If the manufacturer authorizes this type of electrical connection, an electric winch requires a high current of 120 to 200A. It depends on the weight of your boat and the type of winch .

• A power supply is provided by a battery dedicated to the winch.

Note: if you already have a 12V battery with a minimum capacity of 70Ah and/or 650A CCA.

LIFTING CAPACITY

The capacity of a winch refers to the highest weight it can draw. It is usually represented in kilograms and refers to the first row of rope coiled on the drum, i.e. when the rope is almost entirely unwound. The more rows of rope looped onto the drum, the less force is required to apply by the winch. The loss prediction is to be 13% per previously wound row. Please note that this capacity is often specified for a rolling load on an absolutely horizontal wire.

It is also critical to choose a capacity bigger than the weights you want to carry. It is not only to account for power loss but also the rope’s non-horizontal nature and probable friction with the load.

The capacity of 50% more than the weight to be towed is not ridiculous; in fact, it is wise! If you want to raise using your winch, double-check that the capacity is not represented in the rolling out load.

There is a trade-off between pulling speed and load speed for a given power. A hefty cargo will be slowly dragged. Do not be shocked if the hauling speed of cargo is slow while the winch is empty.

Generally, a loaded winch will pull 1.5 meters per minute. A winch that is quicker than the norm will have a more powerful motor, resulting in larger instantaneous power usage.

Now you know absolutely everything about the 5 best electric boat trailer winches.

Feel free to share your opinion with us. Your top list may be different from ours! What do you think is the best model? Do you want to share about your favorite one or share about a good experience?

In any case, we strongly recommend “Braves Electric Boat Winch” and “Champion Power Trailer Winch” because they are very safe. And that makes them the best models, especially for beginners in this field.

Remember safety first!

Related Posts

• How To Wire A Winch On A Trailer?
• Guide On How to Test a Winch Solenoid?
• What Size Winch Do You Need for a Car Trailer?
• How to Increase Winch Pulling Power?
• Do You Need a Solenoid on a Winch?

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Drill to power winches

• Thread starter Eric Mitterndorfer
• Start date Mar 6, 2010
• Forums for All Owners
• Ask All Sailors

Eric Mitterndorfer

I have heard of people who use a cordless drill with a couple of batteries as a driver for boat winches. Could any of you that have done this or know someone who has let me know the details. What kind of insert is used for the winch and what kind of cordless drill. I have a shoulder that periodically complains when I trim or furl so an inexpensive make do solution would be helpful.  

You need a fairly beefy drill to work the winches...the bit you need is called a winchbit, and you can find it at www.winchbit.com . It requires a 1/2" chuck—which means an 18 or 28 VDC drill.  

Keep It Simple Sweetie..lol  

The drill you need is a Milwaukee 28 v. right angle cordless drill. They cost about $250 new. If you look to the right on this screen, you will also see a tool similar to that drill that is made specifically for this purpose.  

John said: The drill you need is a Milwaukee 28 v. right angle cordless drill. They cost about $250 new. If you look to the right on this screen, you will also see a tool similar to that drill that is made specifically for this purpose. Click to expand

Warren Milberg

When the first cordless power drills to drive winches came out some years ago, I scratched my head in wonder. I was at the Annapolis Boat Show a few years ago and decided to look at some of those 45-ft luxury "day sailors" that can barely accommodate 2 people and some only have "bending over" head room below. Most of these boats had a myriad of electrically driven devices that made my manually driven head spin. I wondered about the people who had over $500k to spend on a "day sailor" that they really did not want to sail, but somehow got enjoyment out of setting all their electronic devices and sitting back to watch the boat sail itself. Sorry for the editorial comment, but I am one sailor looking forward to doing most or all of my upcoming spring maintenance, mostly by hand, and getting some enjoyment out of it. I then look foward to having the boat launched, bending on the sails, and then hoisting and trimming them, again by hand, and then having a good sail that "requires" me to hand sail the boat....  

We have used this, http://tinyurl.com/ylcup64 With great success and the winchbit on our Mariner 40 ketch. We still have it, the battery charger and one battery and now own a trawler so no longer need it if anyone is interested. Chuck  

We use the 28v Milwaukee right angle drill with the winch bit on our schock 35 to primarily lift the mainsail. The drill came from CPO which sells reconditioned units. I was very surprised when it arrived and appeared to be like new. It has worked perfectly and really eases the over 55' lift. http://www.cpomilwaukee.com/factory...id=milwaukee-reconditioned-right-angle-drills  

Stu Jackson

Warren Milberg said: ...but I am one sailor looking forward to doing most or all of my upcoming spring maintenance, mostly by hand, and getting some enjoyment out of it. I then look foward to having the boat launched, bending on the sails, and then hoisting and trimming them, again by hand, and then having a good sail that "requires" me to hand sail the boat.... Click to expand

Most winch handles are about ten inches from handle to drive bit. Cut one in half and weld in a one foot extension. I just need my winch for the last two feet of mainsail halyard. Edit to add: in days of gaff rigged sails they used a multipart tackle on the throat halyard.  

I use the 28v Milwaukee right angle cordless drill on my Beneteau 51 to raise the two part main and crank the Lewmar 65's winches. I bought te reconditioned model and an extra battery. Also use it to lift my 12 foot Caribe on deck. Charges fast through the inverter and always ready when needed. The bit can be a single square or in my case a double square. Try it, you'll like it. I just turned 70 and it was a great sailing life extension for me.  

Having seen the winchbits in magazines, I went to a booth at the Annapolis boat show. That guy said his were machined from stainless steel, but you had to also buy his "drill", which is probably where he gets his profit. I was wondering why a square of some size wouldn't operated the winch. Cayennita, do you know offhand what size that square is? Of course, there's still the 3- sided part, but you can do that with a grinder.  

John Howitt

It sucks getting old and decrepit. I'm wanting one of these.  

Ron20324 said: Having seen the winchbits in magazines, I went to a booth at the Annapolis boat show. That guy said his were machined from stainless steel, but you had to also buy his "drill", which is probably where he gets his profit. I was wondering why a square of some size wouldn't operated the winch. Cayennita, do you know offhand what size that square is? Of course, there's still the 3- sided part, but you can do that with a grinder. Click to expand

I thought about getting some kind of electric help the last time I had to winch someone to the top of the mast. I actually made a few sketches to attempt to build something from a 12 starter motor or windlass motor, but, nothing actually came of it. I just grunted the winch with a long handle.  

Just bought a square bit off ebay for $26 including S&H. Haven't tried it out yet. He also makes some accessories. I am going to try out my 18V right angle for routine purposes, but a 28V is definitely needed if you think you are hauling someone up the mast! www.thecranker.com or http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/THE-...6977930QQptZBoatQ5fPartsQ5fAccessoriesQ5fGear  

Hoisting a heavy load has always called for a multi part tackle. Other wise you can put a big turning block at the foot of the mast and lead the line to the anchor windlass. The guy going up the mast should also be lending his/her muscle to the job.  

BobM said: Just bought a square bit off ebay for $26 including S&H. Haven't tried it out yet. Let us know if you can tighten the drill chuck enough to make this work. Can you measure that square? All to often (especially in a cordless drill) the round-shank bits will spin in the chucks. I just bought a number of drill bits that have the three-sided shank. A marked improvement! Click to expand

You can always grind flats on those round shanks.  

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William Hay, Writer

William Hay, winner of 3 Kenneth R. Wilson Writing Awards and Folio Award, Canadian Author Association member,author of Caesarean Section and Love Between the Sacred and Profane poetry books, and Psychiatry and Addiction, Personal Perspective book, magazine short story and prose columnist.

Saturday, June 28, 2014

Volvo penta d2-40 marine diesel engine, sailboat heart and love.

well I guess there are 2 sides to each conflict as you said separate with love your Volvo Engine sure looks good and well laid out too very best wishes

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Monday, September 3, 2018

Tackling moscow by train and boat.

Our first full day in Moscow started fairly late since we were still catching up on sleep.  Around 1, we finally were able to get our act together and get out the door. 

We stopped by a cafe to get some breakfast and headed over to the Red Square.  Since the festival is going on, we had to go through metal detectors.  Once we cleared security, we reached the State Historical Museum which provided an entrance to the Red Square.

We walked the length of the Red Square, passing by the Kazan cathedral.

Under normal conditions, the Red Square is a large walking area with the State Historical Museum on one end and St. Basil's on the other end.  On the sides is the Kremlin wall on one side and then the GUM shopping mall and the Kazan cathedral on the other side.  Presently, the walking area has been considerably narrowed and the fesitval grounds occupying a large space between the Kremlin and the mall.

We even asked a stranger to take our picture!

After walking around the Red Square, we had to leave to meet up with our Metro Tour.  

Moscow has famously pretty metro stations so metro tours are quite popular.  We booked a relatively inexpensive tour through a tour group which met outside of the Red Square.

On our way, we passed by the Kremlin gardens and the tomb to the unknown soldier and the eternal flame.

We soon met up with our group which, fortunately, was only 5 people.  Our guide told us that we were going to visit 8 stations during the 1.5 hour tour.  

Honestly, a lot of the stations blended in to me so I won't be able to give you a detailed description of all of them.  However, I did learn that there are 222 metro stations and the trains come every 2-3 minutes reliably.  For that reason, Moscow > DC. 

One of the first metro stations we visited had bronze statues all over of various depictions.  Many of the statues had superstitions tied to them.  For example, for a statue of the dog, it's held that if you rub the nose of the dog, you'll have good luck.  Consequently, most of the statue is tarnished - except for the nose.  I joked to Tomas that they probably rotate the "good luck" portion of the statue to ensure the entire statue gets polished.

However, I do remember some of the stations.

Novoslobodskaya is a station adorned with stained glass on the walls.

There was also Belarusskaya, which paid tribute to Belarus.

Another station which name I cannot remember but had pretty mosaics in the ceilings.

My favorite station was Komsomolskaya.  It's the busiest station and a hub for other connecting trains.  It was built during Statlin times and he wanted the station to embody beauty to set a good first impression to Russia.

I'd seen pictures of it beforehand since it's the most famous but it's so much more impressive in person.

Look at these ceilings!

Overall it was a very interesting tour.  Not sure of any other city which could offer a metro tour.  DC certainly can't...

After the tour, we headed back of the hotel to rest for a bit.  We had purchased tickets to a tour hour boat down the Moscow river.  The tickets were good for any time on any day and the boats left every 20min.  We decided to knock the tour out that day and headed over to the pier.  

We arrived at the pier and saw a boat by the company we had purchased from boarding.  We approached and they shook their head and said it wasn't the right boat. 

So we waited for another boat.

Another boat came along by the same company we had purchased from so weapproached them.  Again - we were told it wasn't the right boat and the boat we were looking for was coming.  

A third boat came along which was NOT by the company we had purchased from.  By this point, it had been longer than 20min waiting and I was starting to suspect that the correct boat was actually one of the ones which turned us away.   We approached the 3rd boat to ask if they knew which boat we should be on.  However, when we approached,  they waved us aboard without scanning our tickets.

So, we boarded the 3rd boat....which was definitely not ours.

We settled into an upper deck, open air table to take in the views.

We passed by pretty buildings.

The somewhat impressive cathedral of Christ the Savior.

This random statue.

After about hour on the cruise, Tomas remarked that it had been about an hour so we should be turning around soon.  I reminded him that we actually had no idea how long this cruise was or where we would be dropped off.  Since we were on the wrong boat.

Fortunately, it did turn around and took us back to the pier.  

For dinner, we decided to go to this burger place, Black Star Burger, which our guide told us about.  Tomas really liked his - I thought mine was OK.  It was a decent size patty with a mountain of Cole slaw on top.  We've realized that apparently Russians dislike getting their hands dirty while eating so some restaurants will give out gloves to use.  This particular restaurant gave out black gloves.

Tomas modeling our dinner.

Since little mum has been asking about pictures which show my feet, I assume she wanted to see my new shoes.  I recently bought Allbirds which are suppose to be super comfortable walking shoes which you wear without socks and can be washed.  I didn't wear them too extensively beforehand, so that was probably my first error.  I also didn't bring another pair of good walking shoes,  which was likely my second error.  The Allbirds were great the first two days without socks.  Midway through the third day, my right foot was quite unhappy. Left foot was a trooper. So, now I have a bandaid on the heel of my right foot and wear socks.  

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