[C320-list] Gypsy

[SARA SCHROEDER]

Thanks for all the feedback about anchor swivels, gypsy's and capstan's.  In the end, I'm pretty sure I was the problem.  I'll bet I thought I had a good bite but when the wind clocked 180 degrees the anchor probably was not fully set which lead to the dragging. Will practice more with the two anchor hooks and line to see if I can get better at it.  I also like the idea of the neoprene tape and might give that a try on the capstan.

Thanks again,

Sara
Wandering Star
Seattle
#707/2000

> On 09/06/2024 8:36 PM PDT surprise thompson87.com via C320-list <c320-list at lists.catalina320.com> wrote:
> 
>  
> I'm very skeptical that lack of a swivel is what caused your anchor to drag when the wind clocked. That's more likely a symptom of not having enough scope so that the anchor broke free from the bottom when the load direction changed. A swivel would not prevent that. You will note in the Practical Sailor article that Jack referenced in another reply that there is no discussion of any advantage of using a swivel that is related to holding. Indeed swivels can be more prone to failure due to side loading than a simple shackle.
> 
> Also, you say that "the anchor hook with line" arrangement was too "convoluted." A gypsy won't solve that problem. A gypsy helps to retrieve the anchor chain, but they are not designed to take the load of a heavy boat in any kind of wind. With a chain rode you will need some way to remove the load from the gypsy while anchored (if you get one), and the best way to do that is with an anchor chain hook and some line. (Some boats use a chain stopper instead, but I don't see where you would install one on a 320.) Gypsy's can slip, and if you overload the windlass expect it to wear out prematurely and possibly end up with broken gears. The anchor hook plus nylon line also adds a bit of stretch to the system, which can also help to prevent the anchor pulling out or having something break due to shock loads.
> 
> So get a new windlass with gypsy to help you retrieve the anchor chain if you are tired retrieving it by hand. But don't expect it to solve the two problems you mentioned.
> 
> Scott Thompson
> Surprise, #653 (1999)
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> On Behalf Of Wandering Star via C320-list
> Sent: Monday, September 2, 2024 2:56 PM
> To: C320 Blog <c320-list at lists.catalina320.com>
> Cc: Wandering Star <wanderingstar951 at comcast.net>
> Subject: [C320-list] Gypsy
> 
>  I mistakenly allowed my ex to remove the swivel between the anchor and anchor chain. He said, “don’t worry, when the wind changes the anchor won’t break free.”  Well that isn’t true. Took the boat out last night in a small protected Anchorage with a good holding ground. Got a good bite, but as the wind clocked around, I noticed I was dragging. A bunch of other boats had come into the small anchorage so I immediately started to pull up the anchor and realized that the anchor hooks with line he set up was way more convoluted than I wanted to deal with. So now, I’m contemplating adding a gypsy. And no, they are not cheap!  
> 
> I have a windlass, but I have to pull the chain up by hand. So my question to the group is twofold. First, can you give me recommendations on a gypsy that has worked well for you. Secondly, can the gypsy go in the anchor locker or will it have to be mounted on the deck? I have space in the Anchor locker, but I’m not really too sure if it replaces the winch or becomes an addition to the winch. I’m thinking it replaces it.  
> 
> Thinking that this might be a good “boat buck” item to splurge on. The strength won’t get better with age.  :<
> 
> Sara
> Wandering Star
> Seattle 
> #707/2000
> Sara S.