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Windlass & Ground Tackle Service
The anchor system is what stands between your boat and the rocks. Cruisers spend more nights at anchor than anywhere else, which means the windlass, chain, and anchor accumulate wear faster than almost any other system. Neglected maintenance is the leading cause of windlass failure.
What ground tackle includes
- Anchor: Primary, secondary, kedge. Modern cruising boats typically run a Rocna, Mantus, or Spade primary.
- Chain: 100–150m for most cruisers; 10–12mm galvanized standard.
- Snubber: Three-strand nylon or dedicated bridle (catamarans).
- Windlass: Electric (Maxwell, Lewmar, Lofrans) or manual.
- Chain counter: Optional but useful.
- Bow roller and stripper: Hardware that wears.
Maintenance schedule
| Item | Interval | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Windlass full service | Annually | Open gearbox, check seals, regrease |
| Windlass brush replacement | 5–8 years | Electric motors |
| Chain inspection | Each season | Look for pitting |
| Anchor swivel inspection | Each season | If used |
| Re-galvanize chain | 5–8 years | If practical |
| Replace chain | 7–10 years | Tropical use |
What it costs
| Service | Common range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DIY windlass service kit | $80–200 | Seals, brushes |
| Pro windlass rebuild | $400–900 | Labour + parts |
| New windlass + install | $1,800–4,500 | Mid-range, 40 ft |
| 100m chain (10mm galvanized) | $800–1,400 | Materials |
| 100m chain (12mm) | $1,200–2,000 | Larger boats |
| Chain re-galvanizing | $200–500 | Plus shipping |
| Premium anchor (Rocna/Mantus, 40 ft) | $400–900 | 20–25 kg |
Frequently asked questions
How often to service windlass?
Annual service. Major rebuild every 5–8 years cruising.
When to replace chain?
Galvanizing failure — typically 7–10 years tropical use. Inspect for pitting.
Rebuild cost?
DIY $80–200. Pro $400–900. Full replacement $1,800–4,500.
Chain cost?
100m of 10mm chain $800–1,400. 12mm $1,200–2,000.
Re-galvanizing?
$200–500 plus shipping. Cheaper than new chain if quality good.