Hinged bow rollers

[ruff_n_tumble]

I'm considering fitting a new bow roller. What's the benefit of a hinged roller, as opposed to a fixed one? Is it to ensure that the point of the anchor moves well clear of the stem in the last stages of retrieval? And if so do they really work better than a fixed one in preventing dings in the gel coat?

 

[Rick]

I added one to mine so I could use a Bruce - the hinged section allows it to stow further forward, but then ensures the force from the rode acts upon the stemhead roller rather than an unsupported roller further forward.

 

[jerryat]

The main reason to fit one is to make anchor recovery easier. When the shank reaches the hinged part and moves along (up) it, the hinged section will swing over to the horizontal and allow the anchor shank to slide aft.

It is mainly used with windlasses as it effectively provides a smoother 'swing' over the stemhead. I'm assuming here that we're talking about a standard type of unit.

 

[davidbains]

I recently fitted a hinged roller. In fact the twin rollers reduce friction and aid self stowing.
Most have a captive bar as well to retain the anchor against waves .
You do need to be careful about sizing especially with a captive bar. Do try the roller and anchor together b4 you pay if poss. Buy one size up if nec.
I think this is why so many have Bruce anchors 'cos they have thinner shanks.
Deltas are much deeper and CQRs are much fatter!
I struggled with a 16kg Delta, eventually Russell Simpson marine ordered an Italian model for me. I have noticed some owners limit the amount of hinging movement deliberately to reduce friction. Also helps if the front roller is greater diam than the rear one.
I also found that the retaining screws holding the rollers tend to undo. Use machine screws that
need an allen key to get them tight enough and use loctite or similar.

 

[DaveS]

I'm interested in this. I too have a 16 kg Delta and I've been wondering about fitting a tilting roller arangement to make life easier. Did you replace the complete stemhead fitting or get a "bascule" with two rollers to fit in place of the original fixed roller?

 

[davidbains]

I bought a complete new roller. You could get a a stainless welder to make something
to fit on your existing roller bolt but life's too short. If you PM me I'll look up the model I bought and fitted.

 

[DaveS]

I feared that might be the case - I've seen complete units for sale but never conversions. Replacing the complete stemhead fitting is not something I want to embark on unless I really have to.