Quick windlass chain stop?

C

Coz

Active Member
Oct 9, 2018
443
Boat Info
2008 Sundancer 310
Engines
Merc Mag 350 DTS w/Bravo III
I took my gypsy off to verify the chain size since I’m going to all chain. I noticed there is a tab you can engage that prevents the gypsy from turning. Does that serve as a chain stop? It would take the load off the clutches

I really don’t see where I could mount a separate chain stop. The plate between the windlass and the roller doesn’t look thick enough to be solid.

No mention of it in the book
 
Are you talking about anchoring? I wouldn't expect the windlass to take the stress at anchor.
You need to tie off to a cleat.
 
My windlass has this on it too.
My windlass manual states that there is no reason to tie off to a cleat. Engage the dog/(tab) into gypsy and done.

When some people refer to a chain stop they mean when you have the anchor retrieved and in the roller, there should be a device on the chain/anchor attaching to deck to prevent accidental deployment of anchor. Usually a small cable with a carabiner type clip will suffice.
 
I thought the chain stop was used when the anchor was down to take the load off the windlass clutch plates. Seems to me the dog tab would do the same thing
 
In regards to the little tab (also sometimes called a failsafe pawl), you'd have to check your manual for your particular windlass. Although many windlasses have this tab, it's often just used to further secure the windlass while underway to prevent accidental deployment and is specifically NOT recommended for holding at anchor. The type of windlass used on a larger boat would be different than yours - so definitely check the manual to be sure.
 
Different brand, but I've seen these as chain stops.

031-1450.JPG
 
Chain stop and anchor safety strap are two very different things. The safety strap is as mentioned above, to secure the anchor from accidental deployment while underway. The chain stop takes the tension off the windlass clutches, and is typically a separate piece of hardware from the windlass. I have learned that on my model boat, if you ordered it with all chain than it came with a separate chain stop mounted just in front of the windlass, as well as an anchor safety strap. If you ordered the chain and rode combo, than it only came with the safety strap and center mounted cleat to tie the rode off too. I don't believe my Lofrans Progress 1000 windlass has a built in chain stop like you mention. Curious, what model windlass do you have?
 
It’s a Quick Aster. After doing some more research I’m gonna stick with rope/chain rode.
 
Cant remember for sure, but I think it is a Maxwell vwc something????. It is a rather large, vertical motor and drum, and in addition to the chain gypsy and guides, there is also a spool on top for manually winching line. The dog on it is pretty beefy.
 
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