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 Swing keel still hard to lower		  New Topic  Topic Locked
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Captnkev25
1st Mate

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USA
36 Posts
Initially Posted - 08/02/2011 :  19:28:10  Show Profile
Over this past winter I replaced the keel winch, cable, tube and ball on my 84 swinger. The winch has been a real pain to let down so far this summer. It comes up no problem but grunts and groans as I let it out. Has anyone else encountered this? I used the direct replacement parts from Catalina Direct. Is there a break in period for these winches? Thanks in advance.
Kevin (1984 C25 Standard Rig, Swing Keel, Traditional Interior)
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dmpilc
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
4593 Posts
Response Posted - 08/03/2011 :  05:24:23  Show Profile
The sounds you are hearing may just be the cable shifting on the drum as you lower the keel.
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Tim M
1st Mate

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60 Posts
Response Posted - 08/03/2011 :  10:47:06  Show Profile  Visit Tim M's Homepage
Kevin
After replacing the winch on my '80 SK last year, it too is harder to crank down than up. Because of the type of brake/clutch necessary to slowly lower 1500lbs the effort involved is considerable. I also think CD is overtightening the brakes a little because of fears of slipping and the liability issues involved. (I was involved in one of two incidents I know of where a new winch let go of the keel - luckily mine was still on the trailer. Both incidents were caused by installation issues and had nothing to do with failure of the winch.) Look at it this way: at least you'll probably never have to adjust the brake on the winch. I also realize the level of the PITA depends on how often you have to crank it up and down. Here in the NW our marina went from a three-year waiting list to now being able to walk in and get a slip for 3 months anytime. So luckily I put the keel down and up once a year now - unless I'm in a shallow anchorage and need a little extra room overnight.
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Captnkev25
1st Mate

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USA
36 Posts
Response Posted - 08/04/2011 :  07:00:34  Show Profile
Well it's good to know where the sound is probably coming from and also that I'm not alone in this problem. It is a pain in the neck but I suppose I'd rather have it too tight than too loose ;). Unfortunately I have to lower the keel each time I go out because my slip draws about 4' at low tide. I'm hoping it will get easier as time goes on. I'm comparing it to a 27 year old winch after all. Thanks for the replies.
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jerlim
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1484 Posts
Response Posted - 08/09/2011 :  16:42:19  Show Profile
Kevin - I've got the same deal...just replaced a 30 yr old winch, we have a lower/raise cycle of 1 - 3x per weekend for 8 months...lowering is a bit freaky, the winch shudders as it revolves, seems the brake sticks a bit - up is a breeze, of course the handle (and moment arm) is longer than the original winch handle...
Edited by - jerlim on 08/09/2011 17:54:17
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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.