2.4mR MkII Windlass System

by Steve Alvey

A Self-contained, portable, power-assisted sail sheeting system

2.4mR Mk II Windlass

Systemis a self-contained, portable power winch system for the 2.4mR boat.  The Mk II Windlass System may be quickly installed on any 2.4mR boat. The Mk II Windlass uses a “clothesline” sheeting system, which allows the sailor to attach one or both sheets (self-tacking jib boom) to the clothesline “on demand”.  Portable, weatherproof system components are intended for outdoor use in marine environment, and removed when not in use The Windlass is controlled via either a large toggle switch on the DC Control Module, or through a Joystick Control Module to provide variable speed control.

MkII Windlass is light (1 kg) and based on a powerful (35 kg line tension) medical gear motor (Faulhaber).  The Windlass Module mounts on the aft deck with two ¼” fasteners, and leads a “clothesline” up either the port or starboard side deck as required.  The 2-speed winch drum sheets from down wind to close hauled in 5 seconds.  The last 40cm is sheeted at 33% speed to provide fine trim when close hauled

DC Control Module may be located convenient to the sailor’s hand, to provide “toggle switch” control of the Windlass and Trim Winch Module

  • Remote Control Pad (optional) may be fastened to the joystick or slider, allowing the sailor to control the Windlass without letting go of the helm (requires thumb dexterity).

  • Joystick Control Module (optional) may be located convenient to the sailor’s hand, to provide variable speed control of the Windlass and Trim Winch Module through a wheelchair joystick.
  • 8.0 or 13.0 AH Battery Module houses a high-technology Pure Lead-Tin battery that delivers high current bursts for the Windlass as well as provide power for an electric bilge pump, providing from 6 - 8 hours sailing time before re-charging.  The battery Module is waterproof and can be located behind the 2.4mR seat or in the bilge area.  When not in use, a compact battery charger keeps the battery ready for your next sailing session.

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