Type in: winch servicing on Google, and the results you will get are endless. There are two types of steps to take: those that are universal to all boat winches, and those that are applicable to specific models. In this post, we discuss minimum requirements for winch servicing.
Set up a specific work area for winch servicing
Winch servicing should be done one at a time. Imagine mixing up two sets of gears into your newly serviced winch!
Accidents happen, but they can be avoided.
To avoid losing any parts, it is recommended to set up a designated working area. This can be a canvas, or a box cut in the exact shape and dimensions of your boat winch, to collect all parts that fall off (see Image below).
What do you need for winch servicing?
-Screwdriver / or Allen keys (depending on make / model)
-Latex Gloves (If you are not a fan of getting your hands dirty!)
-White Spirit (Paint Thinner)
-Hot water, Clean rags
-Bucket/Box or similar area for collecting and cleaning parts
-Flat Brushes (2)
-Winch Grease*
-Pawl Oil*
*Taking shortcuts does not ensure the proper care your equipment deserves! Winch manufacturers tend to have their own brand grease.
Most manufacturers supply replacement kits to simplify your regular preventative maintenance. The basic kits will contain a complete set of replacement pawls, and springs, but be sure to buy the correct kit for your winch model and size. The frequency of replacements depends how often the boat is on the water and how hard the equipment is used. Parts can be replaced from once a year to every four years.
Winch servicing instructions
1. Start off by removing the drum. Remove the screws on the top surface, or on the self-tailing arm (depending on the boat winch). Carefully lift the drum; as pieces stuck on the inside can fall out unexpectedly.
2. It is recommended to photograph the sail winch at each stage of the from most manufacturer’s websites, depending how old the winch is. This can then help you place it back together. As an alternative, a product manual/guide can be downloaded.
3. Remove all pins, washers and gears. It might be necessary to dismantle the entire sail winch from its base, depending on its location on the boat (be patient!).
4. Lay out all the parts to keep track of what has been cleaned. Get rid of ‘old grease’ and then add ‘fresh’ new grease. To do this, you must first immerse the parts in white spirit. Rinse the parts in hot water and then dry thoroughly with a cloth. Any remaining white spirit can render new grease ineffective.
5. Lightly brush all parts with a dab of the manufacturer’s grease. Do not grease the pawls and springs; it will make them stick. Lightly brush the pawls and the springs with the manufacturer’s pawl oil.
6. Remount all pieces in their correct place (making sure you have none left over!) and close (tighten) the drum.
Your fully-serviced winch is now ready for use!
Watch this Harken video for more: Craig Blazer- Harken Technical Service
Some extra steps and more specific tools might be needed for winch servicing, depending on the boat winch. For more guidance, please contact us via email [email protected] or click below to visit our shop:
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Winch servicing made easy!