Kaimana

I'm hoping someone here has already solved the sheet winch problem for relatively large boats. My buddy and I just put together a steering system for this 18-foot model that we're happy with (yeah, you heard that right; it's a 1/10 scale model of a 185-foot ship). It used many of the ingredients he's used in his model planes, just with more torque.

But we'd rather copy someone else's great design for a sheet winch. We figure we need 60# of line pull for the sails if we use a single-part tackle (our preference), and 30# if we use a two-part tackle. Anyone got any ideas or links you can share?

Eternally grateful for any assistance, A Boat Builder For 50 Years, But A Total Model Noob

thomas.armstrong

Nice challenge. Looks like it would be nearly impossible to find a ready-made winch system with that amount of power. I would advise to buy a stock winch, take it apart and pair all the electronics with a powerful motor and separate power unit. You'll have to build your own gear set to drive a bigger sheet drum and connect the potentiometer that is part of any servo....

RMG winches may be a good starting point as they can be easily taken apart for repairs....

Kaimana

We've solved the winch problem by making a custom winch. Thanks to everyone who posted with ideas and suggestions!

kzimmerman

What did you do to solve it?

Propworn

My Feedback: (3)

I would have used an electric car window regulator low speed lots of torque reversible. Usually has a 3/8 inch shaft fairly long sticking out the worm gearbox. Make the winch drum to size with a 3/8 hole and clamp to the shaft. The gearbox has a 3 or 4 hole mounting pattern.