DLB800 Keel Winch

[Hughesfamily]

Looks like an issue, the 1st issue with our Mac 25. While attached to the buoy the keel winch let go. It wasn’t noticed until we went to let the keel down. To our surprise it was already down. When we tried to lift it and hold, the winch would just try and free wheel. I was able to secure the winch handle with a strap and load it on the trailer without issue.

I just pulled the winch. Everything looks fine. I was able to loosen the nut and then the handle. I tried to tighten the handle and to my surprise the winch started working again. This winch is labeled DLB800. Research proves it was built 82 thru 1987. It may be the original winch on our 83. Everything looked good and was tight. My best guess, she has had a great service life. I think the threads in the handle slipped. I have located and received a replacement. I thought I would just share my experience and ask:

Do you do annual maintenance including the tightening of the handle on your winch?

[GordMay]

The Dutton-Lainson 800 lb. capacity #DLB800 brake winch requires a 50 lb. minimum operating load, to function properly.

Owner’s Manual ➥ https://www.dutton-lainson.com/asset...als/206306.pdf

Troubleshooting ➥ https://www.dutton-lainson.com/troub...inches-manual/

Parts ➥ https://www.dutton-lainson.com/prodd...p?prod=DLB800A

[Hughesfamily]

I appreciate that, thanks. 600 lb keel in the water should have had continual weight on the winch. I guess it is plausible that in the wrong conditions weight could have been lifted from the winch. Large wave ?

I will install the new one and at the end of each season I will loosen/check and retighten the handle.