Manual Windlass

[DBASailor]

I have a C&C 39 and I am looking for a manual windlass. Any suggestions on what might be some good ones to consider purchasing. I'm thinking used, because I'm trying to outfit this boat on a shoestrig budget.

[dfreer]

I have a manual windlass from my 41 formosa. I replaced with an electric one. Contact me at freer at peoplestelecom dot net for more info and pic.

[sailingfool]

I used a Simpson Lawrence Seatiger manual windlass for 10 years. It was a nice solid unit that served quite well. I personally would not choose to install another manual unit as their height in the middle of the foredeck is an ongoing irritant. Its easy to hang a jib sheet when tacking if the crew is not diligent in sheet handling. I once wacked my knee on it when gybing the spinnaker pole and I limped for about two months.

If you are going to install a windlass, get a flush design, which I believe means an electric unit.

[zeehag]

electric windlasses tend to fail at wrong times. tha tis why i am changing both my anchor systems that is why i am changing out mine to manual. i LOVE the antique bronze windlasses-they actually WORK in emergent situations. looking for a second one, and i will dispo my electric one. seems without a certain spring, they act as if frozen. the spring is small and doesnt tolerate sea water. go figger.
flush mount--WHY? for a cruiser with an anchor on bow-- flush isnt necessary, nor is electric. failure happens. i like a GOOD manual. they are trustworthy, and easy to use.

[MikeOReilly]

On our Rafiki-37 we have a bronze ABI manual windlass (single speed). We carry a 55# Rocna as our primary, with 200+ feet of 3/8" chain. It works great. Reliable, strong. Never lets us down -- so far. The only downside is that it is slow, but;

Why go fast, when you can go slow

I think these windlasses are now being made by R. C. Plath