POWER WINDLASS PROBLEM

1109 Views 8 Replies 6 Participants Last post by blackfish, Jan 8, 2003

MakoMatt

Discussion Starter · Jan 8, 2003

I have a Powerwinch brand, 30' class, free fall windlass. I have been having a problem with it, quite often, the line does not grab, the metal wheel thing turns, but is not biting the line, and sometimes the line "jumps" out of the "groove" where it should be seated, even with that little spring loaded arm.

I have called Powerwinch, and they said it probably, they said 99% sure, was the line. $180 later on new line, I'm still having the same problem. I am using the recommended line, and it is the correct diameter. When it works, it works great, but when it starts acting up, it a real pain, and someone has to go up on the bow to help it along. This can be a little dangerous at times.

Anyone have any suggestions on a cure, or comments on this brand of windlass?

Thanks in advance.

MakoMatt

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MakoMatt

Discussion Starter · #6 · Jan 8, 2003

Guys thanks, I'm going to take a closer look at that gypsy, and compare it to a new one to look for wear. Leprechaun, thanks for the offer, I am over on Hudson Canal, Freeport Tuna Club, but the boat is out of the water now, and I don't think the line will be supple enough in this cold to play with it, and see how it lays in the locker. That is a good point however, and something I will check in the Spring, I don't have much room in there. I may get back to you again if you don't mind when the weather warms up if I don't solve this thing by then.

Tight lines,
MakoMatt

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MakoMatt

Discussion Starter · #8 · Jan 8, 2003

I never thought about that locker condition that might exist, and the more I think about it, the more I think that is PART of the problem. I carry 200' and it's a pretty tight space if memory serves me correctly. I also don't recall putting the line in there in the neatest way. I sometimes find that when it starts to skip, if I motor in reverse for a moment to pull the line tight, I can often times get it to go again, but the jumping out of the gyspy makes me think that perhaps it's worn a bit, and I need to look at that too.

Thanks again,
MakoMatt

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