winch trouble

[QuickMick]

I tried to tighten the jib halyard and the winch had a failure. the handle goes in fine, then all that happens is the faceplate spins... no winching action. it spins in both directions. its a barlow. anyone experience this? seems like it may have slipped a gear? any tips on how to fix it?

[svHyLyte]

Broken or weak paw spring(s) coupled (I'll wager) with old thick, stiff grease. Easy fix with kerosene, 3-in-1 Oil and a little winch grease for the shaft coupled with a replacement spring or two. It'll take 30 minutes max.

FWIW...

[sailingfool]

Most likely the pawls are not operating. The springs may have broken, or accumulated grime may be causing them to stick.

Winches should be inspected annually. serviced as needed (annually is good). Take them apart and clean. If the springs are broken you need to find a source, search for other threads.

[svHyLyte]

If the winch is old and you cannot find replacment springs you can make do by finding little tiny brass safety pins at a milinary or sewing shop and triming the pointed end off one leg and the safety cover off the other. With squeeze and a little 3-1 oil, it works every time.

FWIW...

[sailingdog]

Remember, DO NOT GREASE THE PAWLS. The bearings should be greased, but the pawls (little metal comma shaped pieces) should only be oiled lightly. If you grease them, they will gum up and stick...if this happens at the wrong time, you could get hurt very badly.