Advice on Windlass: Maxwell or Lofrans

[rcmpegasus]

I am going through an upgrade on my boat and need to replace the windlass. I am trying to decide between a Maxwell HWC3500 and the Lofrans Falkon. Boat is 56 ft ketch, using chain on main anchor and rope-chain on the secondary. Require a horizontal type windlass due to bowsprit. Both windlass look good, price is similar, capabilities are similar. Any experience with either brand would be appreciated.

[Eric M]

We have a manual Lofrans and I am happy with it. I did have to uninstall and re-install ~2" higher to ensure there was a full 90 degree wrap of chain around the gypsy. It is amazing how much better it workes (used to skip) with the full 90 degree wrap.

[callistov42]

I have the Maxwell. Mine is set up as a "double double" (both chain and rode gypsys on both sides). It has been bullet proof for 10 years. Just get the right chain gypsy. I set a sample of my chain to Maxwell to get it right.