Winch Purchasing .. the metal? Question

[Jasper Windvane]

My former boat has two Lewmar ST winches. I loved those
babies. The boat I have my eyes on has two very old,
probably original, old old old, winches. So? I got thinking it
would be a good idea to put two Lewmar ST winches on her
if I buy her. I looked on line, and on sailnet. The winches come in
four metals types; aluminum, bronze, chrome plate, stainless steel.
The aluminum are much less expensive. Is there a significant difference
between the metal types? Any thoughts? Thanks

[sailingdog]

I would go for the stainless steel or chrome-plated bronze, if you can afford it... the surface finish on them will last longer, since the metal is harder than the aluminum. In the long run, it doesn't matter a whole lot though...

[dacap06]

I agree with the dog -- any of the metals you are considering will last a long time, almost certainly longer than you will own the boat.

To my mind, the most important criterion is quality of construction. The second most important criterion is usability -- can you apply similar force to the sheets given similar force on the winch handle? The third most important criterion is maintainability -- can you get parts for them for the next 10 years (obviously yes if you are buying new ones, but worth investigating if you are going the used route). The fourth criterion is avoiding putting additional holes in sandwich FRP. Why add to the potential source of leaks? So my advice is to investigate which (if any) current name brand models could mount using the current holes and yet would produce equivalent force. Additionally, if you find a winch that fits the current holes, your installation will be faster and easier.

Oh, yes. If your winches are close to anything (gee, who would design like that???) be sure the winch handle swing height and swing radius are clear of obstructions.

[bloodhunter]

Jasper,
Assume you will be sailing on salt water. If so aluminum winches need a lot more maintenance than other metals. Manufacturers recommend that they be services four times a year cause the aluminum is much more susceptible to corrosion in salt air than bronze or stainless

[cormeum]

Chromed bronze (if you want the bright look)
Bronze (for the "traditional" look)
SS (not as good as bronze for this application IMO)

Forget Aluminum- they're not very durable.