Category Archives: Anchor and Windlass

Anchor Detent

Anchor Detent
Dave Peffer
10/1/1998
Hull #: 20

The anchor locker provides no place to install a chain lock, which is required to keep the anchor locked on the roller underway. I made one up as follows: a short length of 3/16″ stainless wire (length depends on the length of your anchor stock) with a lifeline pelican hook (West Marine model #543132, which adjusts in length) swaged on one end, a stainless thimble nice-pressed on the other. A galvanized shackle attaches this to the bitter-end padeye in the anchor locker. The pelican hook goes through a chain link as close as possible to the anchor, and the adjustment on the hook allows this to be snug. The anchor is not going to fall overboard. This can also be used to snub the chain and allow you to transition the chain to the gypsy while raising the anchor if you do

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Anchor Windlass Circuit Breakers

Anchor Windlass Circuit Breakers
Earl Poe
10/1/1998
Hull #: 140

I have received a copy of a letter dated 10/15/1998 from Catalina regarding the anchor windlass circuit breakers on 380’s and 400’s. Apparently, some boats left the factory with 80 amp. breakers in stead of the 135 amp. It’s only a problem under high loads, but all should check. The red PUSH-PULL bottom button has the capacity stamped on it. Should you have the 80, contact Ralph Torres @ Seaward.

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Anchor Locker Washdown System

Anchor Locker Washdown System
Dave Peffer
5/1/1998
Hull #: 20

Dave Peffer, Hull #20, ‘Spindrift’ has installed a SHURflo Blaster washdown system to clean the chain and anchor as they come aboard. The pump fit on the forward bulkhead under the v-berth sink, taking water from the sink drain. The sink drain plug fits tight, and prevents sucking air when the system is activated. Be sure to replace the drain tubing with non-collapsing hose, which must also be used for the run from the tee to the pump. Double clamp all hose connections. Dave opted not to put a filter in line before the pump to keep pressure high, but will add one if the pump clogs. The hose and electric wire go up through the hole in the cabinet above the sink (used for the amidships water tank fill and vent) with a little extra reaming, then forward in

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Anchor Chain Specifications

Anchor Chain Specifications
Dave Peffer
8/1/1998
Hull #: 20

The Maxwell windlass manual calls for using 5/16″ short -link’ chain. They have kindly clarified this, and recommend A.C.C.O. 5/16″ high test chain spliced to 5/8″ 3-strand or multi-plait nylon anchor line. If you want to use the windlass’ ability to handle both line and chain on the gypsy, a short, tapered splice is required on multi-plait and a full three-part splice (all three strands going through the chain link) is recommended for three-strand. You may get more information or order pre-spliced chain-rode combinations from Maxwell: 1610 Babcock St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, phone 714-631-2634.

Please note that 5/16″ proof-coil chain, the kind most commonly available at boating stores, slips on the Maxwell gypsy and is VERY DANGEROUS to use. 5/16″ BBB chain fits the gypsy perfectly, but it is not as strong as the chain recommended by Maxwell.

Whether you

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