Bow Roller Question?

[Micadogs]

Hi,

I have a lewmar windlass, I have purchase a Delta (lewmar) anchor which is self launching, and have the appropraite rode (rope and chain).

My question is the bow roller to use. You can get a straight one, no hinges etc with a loop over the end to ensure the rode/anchor doesn't get away. You can also get one they call self launching, which has a swivel in it.

My boat has a fibreglass bow sprit, so clearance is fine from the boat.

Can the above system just use the straight bow roller as the anchor is self launching or do you have to use the swivel type (which appears and I assume not as strong as the integrity is on the hinge)??

regards Adam

[La Vida]

I would use a hinges bow roller setup, there are plenty of self launching units out there. this will ensure the anchor is in the right position when stowed and pulled up tight. make sure you measure the width and lenght of the anchors shank so the roller set up fits correctly

I would also use a chain stopper in case the winch gypsy becomes loose when underway. This will stop the anchor from falling. you can imagine the damage when the anchor hits the bottom and you are doing twenty something plus knots.

I also use a chain snubber with a clevis hook on our bigger boat to take the pressure off the winch when we are at anchor and it also stops the chain grinding in the bow sprit

[Micadogs]

Thanks La Vida,

In relation to the chain stopper, they appear very expensive for what they are. I have a split cross bollars with a pin already that I intended to offset, e.g. out of the chain path to the windlass, and then put chain through that. It will achieve the same thing (I think, hence the question).

I assume the chain stopper is a manually activated device, at least the ones that I have seen are. Can you get these to operate automatically from within the cabin?? If not may just use the split cross bollard to hold chain whilst underway.

All opinions welcome..... keep em coming please

Regards Adam

[peterbo3]

G'Day Adam,
Cheap chain stopper is a snap shackle & a length of 10mm rope.;D;D It does have to be attached manually though.:'(:'(
Seeing that you are not running all chain I would seriously think about replacing that split cross bollard with something heavier through bolted to a thick backing plate.
Tie the anchor rope off to that. A windlass is designed to recover your ground tackle, not take the strain of your boat when it is being pushed by wind/current.

[La Vida]

G'Day Adam,
Cheap chain stopper is a snap shackle & a length of 10mm rope.;D;D It does have to be attached manually though.:'(:'(
Seeing that you are not running all chain I would seriously think about replacing that split cross bollard with something heavier through bolted to a thick backing plate.
Tie the anchor rope off to that. A windlass is designed to recover your ground tackle, not take the strain of your boat when it is being pushed by wind/current.

Peterbo3 is exactly right, it is the easiest way just splice a snap shackle to to a short 10mm. it only has to catch the anchor within a couple inches. what he also said about replacing the split bollard is right. if you are anchoring o/night/ strong tide, wind or heavy seas the it is a worthwile investment.

was it a vertical or horizontal winch you installed? the Lewmar profish are a bloody great winch

[Micadogs]

Thanks guys, it is a vertical lewmar winch. I shoudl add my boat is a 5.5 metres 1/2 cab. You are correct, the rode that purchased has 10 metres of chain and the rest rope. I mostly anchor in 2-3 metres of water in Moreton bay. When offshore, I always drift using a parachute. I do have a proper reef anchor set up for offshore I ever use it and use a float system to recover.

There is only enough room in my anchor locker (suitable for the windlass) for approx 40 metres of rope and the ten metres of chain. Need the drop.

I can get over 100 metres of rope on the locker for the reef set up, but didn't intend to use the windlass offshore (could only use it in 20-30 metres max in any case)

Could I bother either of you for a picture of the snap shackle set up? Basic phone picture is fine. My mobile number is 0408 069 567 if that makes it easier.

Bow sprit is approx 2 inches thick and solid, so will have no issues making any connection secure and will use a base plate also.

Thanks for your assistance guys.

Regards Adam

[peterbo3]

This is a snap shackle. One hand operation. Run some 8mm silver rope through the hole & tie it off with the knot of your choice.