Installing a Windlass

[bgallinger]

I have a '98 Hunter 340 and would like to install an anchor windlass for chain. My first preference would be a manual windlass (if I can find one).
Given the design of the anchor locker on this boat...does anyone know if a manual windlass would work? Does Hunter pre-wire for a 12v. windlass? Which type of electrical windlass would work best for this boat (vertical or horiz.)?

[Ironhorse74]

For a manual windlass you can't go wrong with an R.C. Plath 7a or 7b. I have one and it is built like a tank. http://www.rcplathco.com/products/Pl...%20Catalog.pdf Out here on the west coast I see them in boat resale shops all the time.

Can't give you any info on your Hunter.

[Cheechako]

an electric is very nice if you are single handing... once the anchor breaks free you can get it up fast. I prefer the vertical in an electric, found them to be more trouble free than the horizontal.

[GordMay]

Hunter doesn't (didn't) provide any unspecified 'extras'.

Generally, you need a deeper anchor locker to accommodate a windlass. How deep is yours?

[bgallinger]

Originally Posted by GordMay

Hunter doesn't (didn't) provide any unspecified 'extras'.

Generally, you need a deeper anchor locker to accommodate a windlass. How deep is yours?

Yeah that's what I thought. It's interesting that Hunter labelled one breaker as Windlass, but no wiring as you say.
I think the anchor locker is about 2 feet deep. Just a guess.

[GordMay]

Generally chain rodes require a minimum perpendicular fall of at least 12". This is measured from the centre of the gypsy for Horizontal windlass’, and from the bottom of the locker deck for a Vertical windlass (to the top of the stowed chain pile).

With a total depth of only 24", I suspect you might be better off with a Horizontal windlass.

See ➥ Windlass - Chain Fall Diagram - Manufacturer's recommended Available Fall for chain windlass installations Between 12" - 16" (300 - 400mm) Cruisers & Sailing Photo Gallery

And ➥ http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...lass-1475.html

[bgallinger]

Thanks for the help Gord!