40 year old Ideal Windlass

[Joyful Noise]

As a result of damage from Hurricanes Maria, I need to remove and repair the bowsprit on my Shannon 38. We can't seem to get at the last bolt we need to remove from the Ideal windlass so that we can lift the bowsprit. Does anyone know what to look out for while trying to remove the windlass? If we need to destroy the windlass to get the bowsprit off, what new windlass will fit in the space now taken up by the ideal windlass and where do I find it?

Thank you

[gjordan]

Please dont destroy an Ideal. They are a great old windlass that will probably out last you and your kids. The Ideal web site has some pretty good diagrams that might explain what you need. The company was bought a few years ago by Scheafer Marine and a recent email that I sent them makes me think that they got rid of all of the old timers that knew anything about the windlasses. Is there a way to cut or grind the head or nut of the bolt off from below decks and worry about getting it apart later? Also remember that if someone set it against the wood with 5200 sealer that it might seem like it is welded in place. Good luck with your project. Grant.

[gjordan]

Just another thought. If the windlass bolt that is not reachable only goes thru the bowsprit, then remove the whole thing as a unit and untangle it when it is on the ground or in a shop. Good luck. Grant.

[Markhunter1097]

I got mine out with a sledge hammer, took nearly a week to remove. Use a lot of heat too that helped me, and I think a grinder to cut one bolt.
I posted the rebuilt story in the forum somewhere