What kind of winch is this?

dhornsey · #1 (**permalink**) 10-02-2008

Anybody know what kind of winch this is? And how to get it apart? It seems like a giant screwdriver in that slot could turn around, but the button is in the way, and the button doesn't go all the way down to allow anything in the slot. Help?

Thanks!

CharlieCobra · #2 (**permalink**) 10-02-2008

That looks like a Merriman winch. If it has a trident on it anywhere it's Merriman and it takes a flat bronze winch handle with a slot for that pin. The pin should be spring loaded so if it's stuck, give it a whack with a hammer but not too hard. As for removing them? I haven't figured that out yet. I have some on my masts that need to come off for rebuilding and so I can refinish the masts.

Faster · #3 (**permalink**) 10-02-2008

Charlie's right - a largish flat handle goes into the top slot.. the pin is a locking mechanism.

The slot in the center section unthreads to allow you to remove the drum, at which point you can get at the attachment bolts. Usually the winch handle end will fit the "screwdriver" type slot in the top center piece. Use it as a tool to unscrew the center part.

dhornsey · #4 (**permalink**) 10-02-2008

I have the handle that fits the winch, and the end looks like the perfect size to use as a big screwdriver, but the button prevents this from happening. The button seems to be working (it goes up and down), but it doesn't go down far enough to allow the winch handle to be used as a large screw driver. I guess I'll try to find some other piece of metal that I can cut a notch out of... maybe the handle that I have is not the original?

Thanks guys. I confirmed that it is a merriman winch.

merc2dogs · #5 (**permalink**) 10-02-2008

That's the way of it, very easy to tear down as long as you have a large screwdriver or the correct handle.
Some have real pawls and springs in them, some have 'bars' with springs between them going top to bottom that catch on ramps.

Whenever I work on mine I wonder how many of those handles are sitting on the sea floor.

Mine have a few more years before the chrome is all gone, but they're starting to look like that one.

Ken.

lharmon · #6 (**permalink**) 10-02-2008

If you need parts for your Merrimans, Rig-Rite Inc. - Masts, Booms, Spars, Rigging, and Hardware for Sailboats. does stock some parts for your #3's. They are very helpful and may be able to offer some pointers on disassembly. Google them for a phone #. I have bought from them efore and their service was very good.