[C320-list] Upgrading the windlass

[Darren Hulbert]

I went with the VW 10. Had to cut a larger hole for the shaft and some new holes for the support bolts. It’s a pretty big unit and you’d think there’s no way it fits, but there’s actually a decent amount of space. I would say if there was a downside, is that it’s FAST. It’ll throw chain in your locker so fast it needs some hand tailing to spread out the pile. But I’m still happy I made the switch. 

> On May 11, 2021, at 6:52 PM, Jack Brennan <jackbrennan at bellsouth.net> wrote:
> 
> Hi Ron:
> 
> I wish they still sold the chain upgrade for the VW 500. That would be enough.
> 
> I had several situations on this trip where the 33-pound anchor dug into mud with strong currents/winds. I still got the anchor up, but it ain’t as easy as it used to be. I can envision a time when it will become a problem.
> 
> Jack Brennan
> Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
> Tierra Verde, Fl.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> Sent from Mail for Windows 10
> 
> From: RONALD HODEL
> Sent: Tuesday, May 11, 2021 9:07 PM
> To: C320-List at catalina320.com
> Subject: Re: [C320-list] Upgrading the windlass
> 
> Jack, 
> 
> I replaced my VW500 with another VW500 when the old one failed in Mexico. In talking to Maxwell on the phone, they said the new one was exactly like the old one. It was a real pain to get one delivered to Puerto Vallarta BUT once we got it delivered, the mounting bolts didn’t line up. (I can’t remember, one had 5 bolts and the other 4 or something like that, but you get the idea.) Yikes!!! My only point is, be really careful about the promise that anything is “plug and play.” That said, the replacement VW500 works great. I’m pretty much all chain (150’) but I do have rode and if I’ve paid out all the chain and I’m into rope, I can easily bring that in hand over hand with Gail driving the boat forward. And as you know, make sure the gypsy fits your chain. 
> 
> Ron Hodel
> Lokomaikai #1070 Dana Point, Ca
> 
> Sent from my iPad
> 
>> On May 11, 2021, at 5:21 PM, Jack Brennan <jackbrennan at bellsouth.net> wrote:
>> 
>> So, after six weeks of cruising the Keys and western Florida, I’ve come to realize the value of a windlass – and not  the old and useless Maxwell VW500 currently on my 320. (It’s hell getting old …)
>> 
>> A couple of questions for those who have already upgraded:
>> 
>> • The Maxwell VW 10 seems to be the most recommended replacement on previous posts. Is this a plug and play for the VW 500, or do I have to make alterations to fit it? The specs seem very close.
>> • The VW 10 has separate wheels (?) for rope and chain. Is the rope fitting better than the one on the VW 500, which won’t feed line into the anchor locker (at least on mine) because it requires you to tail the rope constantly?
>> • Finally, has anyone gone with another brand? Your experience?
>> 
>> Thanks in advance.
>> 
>> Jack Brennan
>> Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
>> Tierra Verde, Fl.
>> Dolphin Cruising Club of Tampa Bay
>> 
>> 
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>> 
>> 
>> Sent from Mail for Windows 10
>> 
>