Windlass Question

[LWinters]

I started tearing down the ancient windlass that come with my boat and had a few questions. First, the markings indicate it is a SL 500. I am assuming this is Simpson Lawrence but it is defiantly not a Horizon, Sprint, or Sea Tiger model. It appears to me something much older that I can't find a reference to anywhere. Anyone know if there might be parts or documentation anywhere?

The second problem is that the primary cog inside has one tooth broken off and another half way broken. Assuming I can't find a replacement is it possible for a good welder to build the tooth back up on the original cog?

And lastly, it got some pretty good rust scale on it, but has lots, and lots of good steel remaining. I am thinking I'll have it sand blasted and powder coated to see if I can't keep it around for another 50+ years. Anyone have experience with powder coatings and how durable the finish is on geared mechanisms like this? Thanks,

LW

[sailingdog]

You might also consider galvanizing it or chrome plating it. Both are pretty good protective finishes, and may be better than powder coating in a marine environment.

Have you contacted Lewmar, who has since bought Simpson Lawrence IIRC.

[LWinters]

I just got it broken down yesterday and found the markings inside the gears. Unfortunately I couldn't get anyone at Lewmar, but I'll try again on Monday. It a beautifully made and extremely heavy windlass so I am hoping someone knows something about it.

I did think about hot dip galvanizing it, but was thinking powder coating for both protective as well as aesthetic reasons. Chroming it would look great, but somewhat costly.

LW