A sailing winch is an essential piece of equipment on sailboats, designed to assist sailors in managing the tension of ropes and lines under load. Commonly used for trimming sails and raising or lowering the mainsail, a winch increases control, allowing for smoother, more precise adjustments.
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1-2 weeks delivery time Price incl. 19% VAT The Plastimo 31473 Winch Nautilus N23 is a top-tier sailing winch crafted for optimal sail handling. Boasting a two-speed design, this winch by Plastimo offers sailors enhanced control and adaptability in various sailing conditions. Built with durability in mind, it ensures a reliable and efficient performance, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned sailors and beginners alike.
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€ 582,60
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1-2 weeks delivery time Price incl. 19% VAT Transform your standard winches into self-tailing wonders with the Plastimo 35306 Wincher. This pair of rubber molding flanges, compatible with Nautilus winches of various sizes, easily fits over drum diameters ranging from 64 to 70 mm and accommodates rope diameters of 8 to 10 mm. Upgrade your sailing experience with the convenience and efficiency of self-tailing functionality, ensuring smoother and more controlled rope handling. Elevate your sail handling capabilities with this versatile and reliable solution for dialed-in performance on the water.
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€ 139,72
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1-2 weeks delivery time Price incl. 19% VAT Introducing the Plastimo 35307 - Wincher, Blue D 73mm To 80mm, Pair. This rubber flange converts a standard winch into a self-tailing one, providing convenience and ease of use. Suitable for rope diameters ranging from 10mm to 14mm and drum diameters between 70mm and 80mm.
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€ 143,05
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1-2 weeks delivery time Price incl. 19% VAT The Plastimo 35308 Wincher, available in an elegant blue hue, is a pair designed to accommodate ropes or lines with a diameter ranging from 80mm to 90mm. These Winchers offer a stylish and functional solution for sailing enthusiasts, providing reliable and secure handling of lines during various maritime activities.
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€ 146,37
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1-2 weeks delivery time Price incl. 19% VAT Plastimo 35309 Wincher in striking blue is designed for ropes with a diameter between 90 to 100 meters, offered in a reliable pair. Enhance your sailing experience with these durable winchers, ensuring secure and efficient line handling. Perfect for both seasoned sailors and beginners, the Plastimo 35309 Wincher promises enhanced control and ease of use. Elevate your sailing gear with this essential addition for a more enjoyable time on the water.
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€ 174,41
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What are the primary functions of a winch handle on a sailboat?
The primary function of a winch handle on a sailboat is to provide leverage, allowing sailors to easily trim sails or adjust lines under high load. Typically inserted into the winch drum, an aluminum or alloy winch handle, such as a lock-in or non-locking version, gives control and ease of rotation. Additionally, handles with ergonomic grips increase grip and efficiency during extended use, while features like waterproofing and maintenance kits support long-term durability.
In addition to providing leverage, winch handles often include features like quick-release adapters and ergonomic handle holders that add convenience and flexibility. Aluminum winch handles are frequently used with self-tailing winches, which eliminate the need to manually hold lines, allowing sailors to focus on precise adjustments. Accessories like the winch maintenance kit, pawl springs, and race lube enhance functionality and prolong lifespan, while options like the winch handle holder and winch handle pockets keep the equipment secure and accessible.
What are the key advantages of using a self-tailing winch on a sailboat?
Using a self-tailing winch on a sailboat offers significant benefits by allowing sailors to manage lines single-handedly, as the built-in mechanism holds the line securely on the drum. This eliminates the need for extra crew to tail the line and improves control, especially during intense maneuvers. Additionally, materials like radial aluminum or alloy and features such as pawl mechanisms and roller bearings enhance durability and ease of maintenance, making self-tailing winches efficient and reliable under marine conditions.
Self-tailing winches are further enhanced by features like lock-in winch handles and grip-enhancing materials, which allow for precise control and reduced strain during use. Components such as a stripper ring and crank mechanism streamline the line feed onto the drum, maintaining consistent tension and positioning. To ensure longevity and smooth operation, accessories like a winch service kit with gear grease and ball bearing grip tools are recommended, while cordless and electric conversion kits offer additional versatility and ease in high-performance sailing scenarios.
How does a radial winch differ in design and functionality from a classic plain top winch?
A radial winch differs from a classic plain top winch in that it features a drum design with specially engineered ridges that improve grip on the line, reducing the chance of slippage. This design minimizes wear on the rope and enhances control without excessive handling. Additionally, radial winches often incorporate self-tailing mechanisms, which secure the line in place, allowing for single-handed operation—a significant advantage over the classic plain top winch in demanding sailing conditions.
For additional protection, explore our Sailboat Winch Covers, designed to safeguard your winches from sun, salt, and dirt, ensuring long-lasting performance.