anchor rode component questions

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Laurel
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Joined: 2/9/10
Posts: 8
anchor rode component questions

Any thoughts or opinions on 3/8 inch stainless steel chain? We were told of a great deal at approximately one quarter of retail price. We're practical but want to be safe! We sail Lake Michigan and are considering 60 feet as that is all he has available. Is that adequate? We most often anchor in 20 feet or less in sandy bottom.
Second question...any thoughts or opinions on swivel anchor connectors? We purchased a used Delta 35# plow anchor with a stainless steel swivel anchor lift which is supposedly good in bringing the anchor easily through the windlass roller. The pins appear to be 5/16 inch.
Thanks for any help!
Laurel

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deising
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Joined: 11/3/08
Posts: 1351

Laurel,

We have 80 feet of 5/16 inch stainless steel chain. It is not as strong as the same size chain made of HT carbon steel, but it is still not the weakest part of our ground tackle.

3/8 inch SS chain would certainly be strong, as long as it was a quality product and not some inferior grade of SS with dubious welding processes.

Unless you are planning to haul that chain by hand, you would have to ensure that your anchor windlass "gypsy" or chain wheel would fit the exact 3/8 inch chain link size.

As far as swivels, some people swear by them, but the sources I trust say it usually becomes the weakest part of your ground tackle and you are better off without one. If you get one, be sure it is very strong.

Duane Ising - Past Commodore (2011-2012)
s/v Diva Di
1999 Catalina 36 Hull #1777
Std rig; wing keel, M35B, Delta (45#)
Punta Gorda, FL
http://www.sailblogs.com/member/diva-di/

Gunkholer 1889
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Joined: 12/12/08
Posts: 25

I use 60ft 5/16ths HT behind a delta 35. I anchor 90-100 nights a season in N Lake Mich, Huron, Superoir. You should be just dandy-but if you are pulling it by hand- in some places (Pentwater/Charlevoix) you may be pulling all 60 feet plus the anchor- ok if your back in strong.

Chris Hansen
Gunkholer #1889
White Lake MI

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stu jackson c34
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Joined: 12/3/08
Posts: 1270

You may be interested in this topic about sizing an anchoring SYSTEM.

[url]http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,4990.0.html[/url]

Check the strength and weight of the proposed SS chain. Why carry extra weight if it's not necessary? If it's less strong but weighs more, then you have to ask yourself some serious questions about your return on investment.

3/8 is overkill for our boats.

I agree with Duane, swivels are dangerous and I encourage you to eliminate them from your anchor gear.[url]http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,5109.0.html[/url] and [url]http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,5533.0.html[/url]

Stu Jackson, C34IA Secretary, C34 #224, 1986, SR/FK, M25 engine, Rocna 10 (22#)

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gforaker
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Posts: 133

Since you are in fresh water, I'd save my money and skip the SS chain and just go with HT. I'm in Lake Erie and feel a boat length or 40' is enough, especially if you don't have a windlass. If you want to increase holding power, a kellet would give you more bang for the buck.

I agree with the comment that a swivel would be the weakest link. The biggest problem is that the pin in the center can corrode or degrade where you can't see it.

Gene Foraker
Sandusky Yacht Club
Sandusky, OH
1999  C36  #1786
Gypsy Wagon

Laurel
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Joined: 2/9/10
Posts: 8

Thanks for the input...you guys are awesome! We weren't sure about the swivel but now will use as decoration somewhere....after all, they aren't cheap!
Laurel

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John Reimann
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Joined: 12/2/08
Posts: 321

The problem with swivels, from what I've read, is that they cannot take a side load - that is, if the boat moves and the anchor remains in place and the load on the swivel is from the side. I replaced my swivel with a simple shackle and have never had a problem with the shackle running over the bow roller. I should note that I did see a swivel at the W. Coast boat show yesterday that is made as a ball-and-socket so it swivels in all directions, meaning the side-load is not an issue. But it costs some $350.

SF Bay
1998 C36

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