What winch size??

[Tomsk]

I've finally decided to start leading the lines back to the cockpit on my boat (Colvic 26 Sailor)...

Can anyone recommend what winch size I should use for the main halyard / reefing / topping lift etc....

I would also welcome recommendations on 'budget' winches as I'm skint as usual!

TIA

 

[andy_wilson]

Budget?

Try a cleat and turning block so you can hoist / adjust from a sheet winch.

 

[fireball]

Re: Budget?

On a 30' we don't generally use a winch to hoist - but do have one available. The one at the bottom of the mast is an 8.

Have a look at the harken site for advise on sizing... http://www.harken.com/charts/winchusechart.php

 

[Tomsk]

Re: Budget?

Hmmmm Sheet winches.. never for a moment thought of using them! Could save me a small fortune!

 

[William_H]

Re: Budget?

I find that halyard winches are great even on a 21fter. In fact I have 4 on the cabin top bought when they were cheap a long time ago. However I notice that the cost of a clutch can gop a long way toward a winch. I am able to use a 2 winches for reefing lines and 2 for halyards and leave the halyards on the winch with a horn cleat to tie off. No slip and easy to release.
I have found that cam cleats and clam cleats all slip after old age sets in. Horn cleats are the most reliable.
Now winches can be small or large. The small drum has a greater power ratio when direct drive (as you will use) but especially with fatter ropes they don't have the area for grip (you have to put more pull on the tail)and so on bigger loads you need a bigger rope and so a bigger drum. My guess is that on a 26fter the smallest winch or maybe one size up will work well for your halyards like 10mm thick rope. If you use thinner non stretch dynema or similar halyard then smaller is OK. olewill