anchor roller selection

pcg · Posted: Sat Nov 04, 2023 3:09 pm Post subject: anchor roller selection

I'd like advice on what sort of anchor roller/retrieval system I should use on my 22' Cruiser. This is a restoration project starting from a bare hull so I can basically do anything I want at this point. I've purchased a Rocna 13# anchor and Lewmar H700 windlass.
What do you suggest for an anchor roller setup?

colbysmith · Posted: Sat Nov 04, 2023 4:55 pm Post subject:

On both my 22 and 25, I have a roller that allows the anchor to drop when setting it. Something like this has worked fine for me:
https://www.marinedepotdirect.com/pivoting-anchor-roller.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3oDaqZ2rggMVWUNyCh08bwvBEAQYCCABEgKpxfD_BwE

Colby

thataway · Posted: Sat Nov 04, 2023 5:36 pm Post subject:

Be sure to put a backing plate or at least fender washers on the back side of the bolts attaching both the anchor roller and the windlass. I usually use 1/4 to 5/16 aluminum as the backing plate. Easy to drill with a hand drill (although I use a drill press). It cuts easy with a coarse tooth hacksaw.

I have just used the standard bow roller which comes on the boats--but at times it is better to have the articulating plate Colby mentions.

I noted that you have a chain stopper on the foredeck in your photos. This is only meant to hold the anchor when you are running or trailering. It should not take the load if you are anchored. You want the bow anchor line to be cleated off, no load on the windlass. You only use the windlass to take up slack as you power to right over the anchor. Use the boat to pull the anchor out of the sea bottom, and then use the windlass to raise the anchor from the bottom. Often you will need to either use a brush, or back the boat down with the chain and anchor in the water to get all of the mud off. Remove any debris manually.

clayhubler · Posted: Sat Nov 04, 2023 5:45 pm Post subject:

I use one like the one Colby linked to and I like it even though I think my delta would launch with a fixed roller. The original anchor when I got the boat was the lewmar claw and it held well but I had to go on the bow every time to dislodge it.

pcg · Posted: Sun Nov 05, 2023 6:20 pm Post subject:

drbridge · Posted: Mon Nov 06, 2023 2:51 am Post subject:

We also use the Pivoting Self-Launch Roller. It works really well. The other thing about this type of roller is that the anchor rides a lot lower When it is up, allowing for better viability while running.

thataway · Posted: Mon Nov 06, 2023 9:47 am Post subject:

pcg · Posted: Tue Nov 07, 2023 12:32 pm Post subject:

Thank you all! I ordered the bow roller that Colby recommended.