Posted: February 06 2010 at 10:36 | IP Logged

Jennyrose - your 86' did not come with one? I guess they were an option.   When I had my 381 and had to replace the original windlass.  I replaced it with a Powerwinch windlass.  Go with the 41' model.  You DO NOT want to go any smaller.  Saving a few bucks here will give you a windlass you'll wish you never bought.   http://www.powerwinch.com/powerwinch/controller?action=produ ct&c=3&p=19

If you currently have no windlass at all, you'll need to drill down through the anchor platform and deck.  You'll need a deep-cut hole saw with an extra long pilot bit or an extension for the bit.  IMPORTANT: remember for resin the hole with a couple of coats to insure the hole is sealed from moisture penetration.  I used a bottle washer well soaked with resin for this job.  Apply a good coat, let it sit over night and then another coat.  Simply let the bottle washer soak in paint thinner or other product overnight so it will be re-usable the next day.  ALSO: when sealing the windlass to the deck; DO NOT USE 5200!  3M 4200 is fine and you'll be able to get the windlass up at a later date if needed.  Follow the instructions carefully.  Don't cut corners!  When sealing the windlass, apply a generous portion around the sealing areas and place the windlass in place but do not tighten it down yet.  Just snug it and walk away for lunch.  Allow the sealant to slightly cure in order to form a decent gasket.  Maybe people immediately pull down deck fittings, etc, when first installed and they end up squeezing out all the sealant, thereby ending up with a poor seal.

These are recreational windlasses (as all are with the exception of high-end motoryacht types),  not commercial grade.  So remember this, a rec. windlass is not intended for pulling an anchor out of the sand, mud, etc, bottom!  The boat does this, then you pull up the free anchor without putting strain on the windlass and/or deck surface.  But I am sure you already know this, so I'll shut up for now.  Hope this helps.

One final thing, I thought Powerwinch was a decent product for the buck.  You can spend a lot more if you choose, such as an all stainless steel case, etc.

Emory