Winch handle drive - Is it Star or Torx or something else?

[sealegsjim]

Is the winch handle drive a Star or Torx or something else and does anyone know what size it is so I can order one from from a tool supplier?
I have Harken winches and my last boat had Lewmar and the drive is the same.

 

[nigelmercier]

It is two squares, 45° rotated.

 

[sealegsjim]

It is two squares, 45° rotated.

So is this shape specific to winch handles? I am trying to buy a plug to fit the winch so that I can fit it to an electric drill to use on my lifting keel

 

[kolster]

Wouldn't just one square end be OK for this purpose? two squares would be to allow you to put the winch handle in the easiest starting position, this wouldn't be necessary when using an electric drill.

 

[Plevier]

I made one by putting several square nuts spaced alternately at 45 degrees on a bolt, doing them up tight against each other and using Loctite too, and cutting off the head of the bolt to grip the smooth shank in the drill chuck.
The adapter was fine but the drill went up in smoke. You need a very heavy duty one for it. The load winding the LK may feel small but don't forget you have a 10" lever on it.

 

[sealegsjim]

Wouldn't just one square end be OK for this purpose? two squares would be to allow you to put the winch handle in the easiest starting position, this wouldn't be necessary when using an electric drill.

You may be right as someone in the States sells a square fitting called a winch buddy for this very purpose. It costa $30 plus shipping

 

[rogerthebodger]

Is the winch handle drive a Star or Torx or something else and does anyone know what size it is so I can order one from from a tool supplier?
I have Harken winches and my last boat had Lewmar and the drive is the same.

5/8 "square drive. You do not need the bi square ( 2 squares at 45 degrees) At a push you could file/ grind down a 3/4 " square drive socket extension to fit.