Winch rechroming

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adamlang

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I've got a Lewmar 16 2 speed winch (not self tailing) its probably an original part on our 1980 built boat, most of the chrome has peeled off leaving a few sharp edges and its not very grippy for the rope. Its the main halyard winch.

I could probably just sand off the sharp edges and live with the lack of grip but I'm thinking of having it re-chromed. Does anyone have any experience with this? I'm based in Essex, but have found a place in Kent that have quoted £135 (+VAT) or £100 if I have a pair done. They are called http://www.ashfordchroming.com.

Does anyone have any experience of this, anything I should ask about, does it tend to last, is it a good price etc?

thanks
 
Be careful about the spec. "Chrome plating" isn't enough. Hard chrome ? or not? Any other pre-coatings? What's the base metal. does it need a "flash coat" of something else first? What thickness of chrome will you specify? What finish? Mirror finish or dull?
Discuss this with the electroplater otherwise they will do what they think best, and that might not be what you want.
 
TiggerToo said:
one more questions: is this necessary, or merely aesthetic?
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Ask the platers, or do your own research, about alternatives to chrome.

Regarding cost - no idea, but bear in mind electro-plating is an environmental nightmare, dealing with all that will be reflected in the price.
 
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Thanks all, that's very helpful.

Especially the thickness and using hardened chrome, I'll start there. I would say its mainly aesthetic but it should also help to stop the rope from slipping as much as it does currently. Probably cheaper ways to achieve this. I did discuss not polishing the middle bit and they said they do marine winches all the time, had 17 or something being done at the moment etc.

Andy, any idea where the specialists you mention are based, they don't seem to have addresses nor landline phone numbers on their sites which usually sets alarm bells ringing, but since they come recommended if they weren't too far from Essex (the other place is in Kent) I'd give them a go.

Thanks
 
adamlang said:
Andy, any idea where the specialists you mention are based, they don't seem to have addresses nor landline phone numbers on their sites which usually sets alarm bells ringing, but since they come recommended if they weren't too far from Essex (the other place is in Kent) I'd give them a go.
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Cliff Mogridge Unit 1, Emsworth Yacht Harbour
Thorney Road
Emsworth
PO10 8BP
He doesn't advertise a land line - I think because he is out and about a lot repairing steering systems. I bought steering spares from him - helpful, courteous and quick.

Tony Cobden
2 Brickfield Cottages, Rotten Row
Sidlesham
Chichester
PO20 7QR
Again doesn't advertise a land line. He actually manufactures plastic parts for old Lewmar winches as well as supplying service kits - and those are the things I got from him. Also helpful, courteous and quick.
 
It will soon be Christmas and I would be asking Santa for a pair of self-tailing winches. I don't see the point of spending cash on a pair of obsolete items when spending a bit more could transform your sailng and add so much more to your enjoyment. I know they are expensive but hey, it's only money.
 
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