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Understanding Your Boat Engine

If the engine of your boat isn't well maintained, you may soon find yourself stranded on the water or unable to set out on a voyage. We hope that the things we have posted here will help you to understand the engine on your boat. The articles, which have all been written by amateur boat owners, will help you to recognise the signs that your engine needs attention, understand the process of engine reconditioning, and recognise the importance of using the correct type of fuel. Armed with this knowledge, you will be able to hit the waves without having to worry about how the engine will perform.

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Understanding Your Boat Engine

3 Critical Factors to Consider when Choosing an Anchor Winch

by Susan Long

No matter the size of a boat, raising an anchor can feel like a real workout. While you can lift an anchor once or twice, it is nearly impossible to sustain the action for long. That is why every boat owner installs an anchor winch. Not only does it save your back from injuries, but it also reduces the chances of falling overboard while raising an anchor. Additionally, an anchor winch allows you to change your boat's positioning, especially if you love fishing. However, an anchor winch is not a one-size-fits-all piece of equipment. This article highlights factors you should consider when buying an anchor winch.

Size of Anchor Locker 

The size of your anchor locker is arguably one of the essential measurements you can take when choosing an anchor winch. How deep is your anchor locker? What is the available anchor fall? Answering these critical questions will help you to select the right anchor winch for your boat. For instance, a vertical anchor winch is best suited for vessels with a large anchor locker below deck. The reason is that vertical anchor winches have a motor that hangs below the deck. On the other hand, horizontal anchor winches are best suited for boats with smaller anchor lockers because they do not have a motor that needs to hang below deck.

Remote or Manual Operation

Weighing an anchor on many sailboats is done from the bow. However, this is not recommended for anchor units on a powerboat, especially in rough waters. The reason is that it is easy to slip and be dragged by the anchor chain. Notably, it is essential to install an anchor winch that you can operate from a remote location. However, if you are an experienced sailor, you can install an anchor winch that you can operate manually from the bow. However, it would help if you always remembered that standing on a deck in rough water is dangerous. Therefore, ensure that you install a foot-switch near an anchor winch, whether you have a remote or manually operated piece. It helps you to stop a winch from a safe distance.

Anchor and Windlass Weight

When considering the weight of an anchor, keep in mind that the chain or rope adds to the overall weight. Therefore, the anchor winch you buy should be strong enough to handle the weight of both an anchor and its chain. For example, using an anchor winch designed to pull a rope windlass anchor for a chain windlass will only lead to premature wear.

For more information, contact a retailer that supplies winches, such as maxwell anchor winches.

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