Anchor Rode

[CobyF]

The windless on my R23 continues to jam with the three strand line that came with the anchoring package from the factory. My local dealer recommended changing to a braid. Can you tell me what specific size braid I need? Any other recommendations to address the jamming issue would be appreciated.

 

[tpfahy]

I use my anchor weekly, and have no issues, but made a number of changes to start. I purchased the stock anchor package and windlass from Ranger, but didnt like how it set. I replaced the Bruce plow with a Lewmar Delta. 10lb works great. Behind the Delta i added a SeaChoice Swivel. I think that is the key. Chain and rode swivel on retrieve vs spinning against a fixed point (anchor) which causes loops and binding. I replaced the factory chain with a 20'. I like the three braid that comes stock. I removed it, and then retreived on a cord spool multiple times to remove any twist inherent in the line from being wrapped on a spool. The Main Anchor line is spliced to the chain (hundreds of youtube videos on good splices for three braid line). I use some amsteel with a spliced loop on the forward cleat, and snaplink to the chain as a safety line. (I also pop the breaker until i get close to my anchorage). These last two points are important lessons. While running back from Port Washington recently with a friend in his new to him Cruiser Yacht 33, (no windlass and ultimately no safety line), his anchor deployed at plane. wrapped his shaft (vs catching the bottom). New prop, new shaft and $10k in repairs have given the dock a sobering lesson. No injuries.

The Bruce plow, the original chain, and 100' of 3/8 Anchor line, go on a cord reel from Home Depot as my stern or spare and are kept in the port locker in the cockpit. i use a snaplink to hold the anchor to the chain when wound. (it is actually held to the chain for load with clevice that has been swaged with heavy gauge wire.

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[NorthernFocus]

Not just any old braided line will work on the windlass. You need "brait" which if I recall is 8 strand line. Regular braided line is too smooth and the gypsy on the windlass can't get a grip on it. You need the same diameter brait as the three strand which fits the windlass gypsy. Not sure what size they supply on the 23.

 

[TBates]

Hello CobyF,

The anchor package from the factory includes an 11 lb. anchor, 15' of 1/4" chain and 150' of 3/8" line.

-Tim

 

[AZtoVA]

Curious. Do you use a bridle of some sort once you set to take the load off the windlass?

 

[TexasEye]

if the rode piled up in the locker under the windlass it will "Jam". Simply move the line in the locker to the starboard side of the locker and I think it will operate fine

 

[trailertrawlerkismet]

One more thing to check before you make a financial investment in changing line, chain etc. Has the three pronged wheel, not sure of the proper name, mounted on the side of the windlass housing been tightened recently? If not tight this can lead to a jamming or poor performance as it relates to anchor/rode retrieval.

Jim