Grinding a winch - an affordable solution

[s.v. LaVida]

As I've age, I've found my winch grinding duties were pretty well filled by our CD33, LaVida. I could handle all the grinding and not feel run over.

However with the purchase of our 44DS, the winching duties have more than tripled and the resulting effort really takes the wind out of one's sundowner arm(s).

So, not being able to afford four massive electric or hydraulic winches, I opted for the only alternative I found affordable..............a Milwaukee 1/2" V28 Right angle drill and a "Winch Bit".

I was skeptical to begin with, but on the very first day onboard the tool took up ALL the winching duties and worked out so well, my slip mate immediately went out and bought one for himself.

Although a tad heavy, the drill really performs, taking on the toughest grinding sessions, especially rolling up a huge main into the mast.

This tool and its V28 technology, so far has proven a life saver for an aging sailor.

You can find the tool online, however we bought ours from a local plumbing supply company. The winchbit is available online also.

Rit

BTW, I have no personal or financial interest in any of the above companies.