chain stopper

[rdw]

I am looking for advice on placement of a chain stopper, Lewmar.
Since it will affect the angle of pull when the shaft of the anchor enters the roller, do I want it closest to the windlass or elsewhere?
Thanks for any thoughts,
rdw

[Gladrags1]

I think that it is more important to consider structure of the boat as a guide to placement location. Considering the fact that the chain stopper will take the full brunt of pressure from the anchor it needs to be located in a spot that is as structurally sound as one would need to be for a cleat or Samson post. The stopper on Mandolin, our Bayfield 36 is located on the toe rail as are the mooring cleats and that's how it souls be. If you cannot locate it there, then you will need to figure out how to reinforce the deck so you don't do damage. Think about being anchored in a heavy squal - that stopper is going to take a lot of pressure!

Tod

[rdw]

Thanks and good thoughts. I drilled out the holes larger than needed, filled with epoxy (there was a balsa core, inner and outer fiberglass, total about 1 inch thick) . I well redrill thru the epoxy and I have a 1/2 inch fiberglass backing plate.
rdw

[jrd22]

As long as the chain runs true to the windlass from the stopper and you have the stopper properly mounted (sounds like you do) you should be good to go. I'm not sure I understand your concern about when the anchor enters the roller? As long as you have enough length between the stopper and the end of the shank when it's pulled in tight there shouldn't be a problem. The chain will make it's "bend" at the stopper instead of at the windlass, but I've always figured that was good for the windlass. Make sure your backing plate is as large as physically possible under the mounting location.