winch sizing

[gtuson]

I want to replace two Tufnell single speed winches, which are not really powerful enough.( 36ft motor sailer - genoa not huge). I have come across a pair of two speed winches - their drum diameter is a bit smaller than my current winch - but they are 2 speed. My question is whther the gearing of the 2 speed will more than compensate for a reduction in drum diameter.......if you see what i mean...

 

[Talbot]

drum diameter is not the most important statistic. You need to establish what the final ratio is, which is a mix of gear ratio, drum diameter and winch handle length, in order to make a valid comparison.

i.e. longer winch handle = better ratio!

36ft boat with a small genoa, I reckon you are looking at least 30:1 possibly larger

 

[gtuson]

That's very helpful - thanks. Is it that ratio which is indicated in the number which winches are given e.g Lewmar 40 = ratio of 40:1

 

[Talbot]

Thats my understanding - which of course may well be like the rest of me - decidedly faulty! /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif