Fitting a manual windlass

I did the same last year on a Halcyon 27. My choice of location was determined by:

* Strong point on deck where I had access to the underneath
* Keeping the entry to the windlass in as straight a line as possible to the bow roller
* Feed to the hawse pipe. I found it didn't have to be as close as you think

Mine is a good 18" or so back from the bow roller, and about 6" from the hawse pipe (which is slightly offset to the left), but this was really determined by the strongest and most accessible position under the deck for the fitting bolts and backing pad.

What you need to do it to clear the area of any fittings, then do some trials whilst somebody is holding the windlass in place. Move it a little and see if it makes any difference.

I didn't have to upgrade the chain to calibrated either. Try what you have first.

We're very pleased with it. Winds in 30m+ of 5/16ths chain surprisingly quickly and easily.

Hope this helps.
 
I fitted my Lofrans Royal just in front of the coachroof.

Advantages:

Weight aft. Directly over the chain locker, which is between the forward bunks. Keeps the area around the bow clear for weighing anchor by hand, sail changing, mooring lines, cleats, sampson post, inner forestay etc. I can sit comfortably on the forehatch whilst cranking.

Disadavantages;

Can't lounge on the foredeck with back resting on coachroof front.
 
If it's a horizontal axis windlass the alignment with the bow roller is critical because the gypsy can't accept a chain approaching from off centre.
 
Depends on whether it is horizontal or vertical axis. If it is vertical then the chain comes off forward and a horizontal the chain drops vertically off the back. Both need to be aligned with the bow roller.

So your access to the chain locker is the main determinant of position fore and aft and bow roler athwartships.
 
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