Keel Winch

[gb0409]

Well, I almost ready to put the V17 into the water!! Painted deck over the 4th, reinstalled all hardware with 4200, new Becton bow vent, installed poor mans topping lift and wind indicator. Question on the keel winch, can I use a regular trailer winch for the keel? If so will a 600 lbs rated on be enough?

[cookwithgas]

Yes and Yes. I found the exact model that is in my boat new in the box at Tractor Supply. I almost bought it, but mine was in good shape and I decided not to spend the $50.

[wilson]

I'm not familiar with a 17 but I doubt that you would want a trailer winch. Use a friction winch. If you've ever seen one get away with a heavly load you'll know you can't stop it. It can break bones. Even if your lucky and get your hands out of the way, the keel is gong to swing down and hit hard. Not good. I'm assuming this is a swing keel, if not disregard.
http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/ ... _200331203

[mgmathews]

I bought a brake winch for my M25 keel at Blue Water Yachts for twice as much as the Northern Tool winch. It looks the same but it's silver though (galvanized) so I got some bling for the money. I had to put a couple of bends in the handle to clear the companionway.