Electric windlass

WHAT IS A WINDLASS?

A windlass is a mechanical device, usually made of stainless steel, used on boats to facilitate anchor maneuvering. Its main role is to ensure controlled raising and lowering of the anchor. Windlasses are particularly useful for medium to large boats, where the weight of the anchor can be considerable and manual operation would be difficult.

A typical windlass consists of an electric or hydraulic motor which drives a drum (sprocket) around which the anchor chain or cable is wound. Some windlasses also feature emergency cranks for manual operation in the event of main power failure.

Windlasses can be installed vertically or horizontally, depending on boat configuration and available space. They are generally mounted on deck, close to the anchorage point.

Using an electric windlass greatly simplifies the anchoring process, enabling sailors to raise or lower the anchor with a minimum of effort, improving the convenience and safety of marine operations.

HORIZONTAL OR VERTICAL?

A horizontal windlass is a stainless steel windlass model that is mounted horizontally on the boat's deck. It is generally used on smaller boats, as it takes up less space than vertical windlasses.

A vertical windlass, on the other hand, is a type of stainless steel windlass that is mounted vertically on the boat deck. It is generally used on larger boats, as it can support heavier loads than horizontal windlasses.

The headstock of an electric windlass is a device that pulls up the anchor rope, rather than the chain itself. This can be useful in certain cases, such as when the chain is jammed or damaged, or when the anchor is too heavy to be hauled up by hand. The headstock is usually mounted on a vertical windlass, although some are also available for horizontal windlasses.

The headstock is usually mounted on an articulated arm which can be pivoted to turn the anchor. This allows the anchor to be positioned so that the textile part is wound onto the headstock, rather than the chain. Once the anchor is on the axis, it can be reeled in using the windlass, as usual.

Ultimately, the choice between a vertical or horizontal windlass depends on your needs and the size of your boat. If you have a small boat and sail mainly in shallow waters, a vertical windlass might be a good option. If you have a larger boat or sail in deeper waters, a horizontal windlass would be more suitable.

MANUAL OR ELECTRIC?

Manual windlasses are operated by hand, usually using accessories such as a crank or lever to turn the anchor chain. Electric windlasses, on the other hand, are powered by an electric motor housed in a watertight case, which makes raising or lowering the anchor quicker and easier.

Both manual and electric windlasses have their advantages and disadvantages. Manual windlasses are generally cheaper and more reliable than electric windlasses, but they can be more difficult to use in some cases, such as when the anchor is very heavy. Electric windlasses are easier to use, but can be more expensive and less reliable than manual windlasses.

When buying a windlass, it's important to consider details such as chain size, motor power and the accessories needed for installation, such as dollies and brackets. It's also crucial to consider the price when buying a windlass, as it can vary considerably depending on size and features.

If you have any questions about shipping, availability, prices, product lists or technical details, please do not hesitate to contact our Comptoir Nautique team

Find our stock of electric or manual windlasses at the best prices from Quick or Lewmar on comptoirnautique.com