Installing a 2nd mast Winch, Hunter 27.

[patrickcsiconolfi]

I have 1978 Hunter 27.
I have one mast winch mounted on port. Would like to add a second on starboard.

I have the original Lewmar 7 sheet winch that came with the boat. Those were replaced with Lewmar 30's after the first year.

Is there a "winch mast bracket "available?

Should the 2 nd winch be mounted directly opposite the existing winch? Would the additional holes cause ia significant weakening? If yes, I could mount it lower.

I appreciate any and all suggestions.

Thank you.

[emoney]

Don't think it will weaken the mast, if installed correctly. The key is to "drill and tap" to mount it, but it should come with everything you need to mount. Factories install two mast winches all the time. As for location, that's up to you, but keep in mind your sail cover, on a side note anyway. Are you having problems hoisting?

[deniseO30]

Traditionally the port is for the Jib and starboard mast winch for the main sail. Why not use this as an opportunity to set up the Main for single handing? It's really nice to raise the main without going on the cabin top.

[patrickcsiconolfi]

I have added rollerfurling to my head stay, making the forestay unuseable for my cruising spinnaker, that requires one Hank. I rigged an alternative forstay using flexible wire rope and my port winch. Worked quite well. Hoisting the cruising spinnaker, even in very light air without a winch was nearly impossible. I really struggled, but got the sail up. Definitely need a 2 nd winch. The cleanest solution would be on the mast. Mounting a winch with a flat base on a curved mast is the problem. Mounting on the deck us an option, but I would much rather go the mast route, if at all possible.

[sailingfool]

This guy made his own..
Pearson Triton #381 Glissando | Awlgripping the Mast, V 3.0