Chain Does Not Fit Windlass

[rnjpinz]

I am in the process of puchasing my first boat. Surveyor says the the 250 ft. of 5/16" primary chain, (proof-coil glavanized) does not match the windlass gypsy (Simpson Lawrence Modell 555 double-action).

Would like comments please.

Bob

[SvenG]

I'm not sure what you are asking but we had a similar situation.

Our manual windlass gypsy was marked 5/16 and a 5/16 3G chain (not BBB or B3) would almost fit, but not exactly. What did fit, perfectly, was a 3/8 3G chain. It is a mystery why it was marked 5/16 and I actually asked here if there were some earlier chain specs that would have explained it.



-Sven

[Bash]

I don't know that particular model, but on many windlasses changing the gypsy is easy. (and far less expensive than a new rode.)

[Joli]

Like Bash said. Buy the gypsy that matches the chain. At least you know the windlas has been lightly used.

[Bash]

Originally Posted by Joli

At least you know the windlas has been lightly used.

...is that the owner switched out the good rode, saving it for the next boat, and figured you'd make do with one that doesn't fit the gypsy.

or maybe he's just a goofball who doesn't realize that the gypsy and chain need to match. Either way, proceed cautiously with this purchase.

[AnchorageGuy]

The gypsy on our 555 was set for 3/8 BBB, but there are options for different gypsy's so I can't say this is standard but you might want to find a short piece and see if it fits. The problem you will have is finding a replacement gypsy for that unit that will fit the chain you have. Since you are still in the process of purchasing perhaps you can include the cost of replacing the chain in your final offer after survey. It would be simpler that trying to replace the gypsy perhaps. WG

[svHyLyte]

Regarding replacement parts, See Simpson Lawrence Yacht parts and spares .

FWIW...

[johnar]

If you still need help understanding Chain and different types you can contact Welcome to Bearing Headquarters they are very helpful nice people have been dealing with them for years.


Dutch

[rnjpinz]

Thanks for the replies. This forum has been very helpful to me. Not sure exactly how I am going to respond to the owner, however, I am going to respond. The surevey says there is 250ft of chain. Does that sound right? If so, that is an expensive replacement.

Bob