The Harken 32.2st Two Speed Self-Tailing Winch is a robust and efficient device designed for marine applications, facilitating the hauling and trimming of lines on sailboats. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for its installation, operation, and maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Function Description
The winch is a two-speed, self-tailing mechanism, meaning it offers two gear ratios for varying loads and speeds, and automatically holds the line once trimmed, freeing the operator's hands. The self-tailing feature is particularly beneficial, as it eliminates the need for a separate cleat or person to tail the line, enhancing safety and efficiency on deck. The two speeds allow for quick hauling of slack line in the first gear and powerful trimming under load in the second gear.
Important Technical Specifications
- Part Numbers and Components: The manual details an extensive list of individual components, each with a unique part number. Key components include:
- Pawls (008) and Pawl Springs (038): Essential for the one-way rotation mechanism, allowing the drum to turn in one direction while holding the line against reverse movement.
- Gears (27519, 27520, 27521, 27522) and Ratchet Gear (27518): Form the core of the two-speed gearing system, enabling mechanical advantage.
- Bearings (703192, 726073): Reduce friction and ensure smooth operation of rotating parts.
- Drum Options: Available in Aluminum (938084), Chrome (938085), and Bronze (939124), offering choices based on material preference, durability, and aesthetic.
- Stripper Arms (37541, 39126): Critical for the self-tailing function, guiding the line into the jaws.
- Handle Socket (31759): Interface for the winch handle.
- Spindle (27517): Central rotating shaft.
- Line Diameter: The self-tailing jaws are spring-loaded and automatically adjust to accommodate a range of line diameters:
- Minimum: 5/16" (8 mm)
- Maximum: 1/2" (12 mm)
- Mounting Requirements:
- Surface: Must be flat.
- Sheet Entry Angle: Crucial for proper self-tailing function, the sheet entry angle must be at least 8°. This ensures the line feeds correctly into the self-tailing jaws.
- Suggested Service Kits:
- BK4512: Includes 10 pawls (008) and 10 pawl springs (038), essential wear parts for maintaining the winch's ratcheting mechanism.
- BK4513: Contains 100 ml of grease, a necessary lubricant for gears and bearings.
Usage Features
- Two-Speed Operation: The winch provides two distinct gear ratios. The first speed offers a faster line retrieval with less power, ideal for taking up slack. The second speed provides greater mechanical advantage, allowing for powerful trimming under heavy loads.
- Self-Tailing Mechanism: This is a key feature, allowing the operator to trim the line without needing to hold it manually. The line is automatically gripped by the spring-loaded jaws once tensioned, freeing the operator to focus on other tasks or to crank the winch handle with both hands.
- Adjustable Stripper Arm: The stripper arm, which guides the line into the self-tailing jaws, can be repositioned. This allows for customization based on the winch's orientation and the lead of the line, optimizing performance and ease of use. To adjust, the top screw is loosened, the handle socket removed, and the stripper arm lifted and repositioned as desired.
- Easy Opening for Maintenance: The winch is designed for straightforward disassembly, with the top screw allowing access to the drum and stripper arm, facilitating routine cleaning and lubrication.
Maintenance Features
The manual emphasizes regular maintenance to ensure the winch remains in top working condition, recommending service before and once during the sailing season.
- Required Tools: Basic tools are sufficient for maintenance: screwdriver, plastic head hammer or mallet, small knife, brush, rags, solvent, oil, and grease.
- Cleaning:
- General Parts: All parts, except the springs support (37383) and upper jaw (37339), should be cleaned with a rag and solvent. This removes old grease, salt, and debris that can hinder performance.
- Specific Parts (37383, 37339): These parts should only be cleaned with freshwater to prevent damage or degradation of their material properties.
- Lubrication:
- Moving Parts (Gears, Bearings): A light, even coat of grease should be applied using a brush to all moving parts. The BK4513 service kit provides suitable grease.
- Pawls and Springs: These critical components require light lubrication with oil. The manual specifically illustrates how to free the captive spring with a knife and insert it correctly against the pawl with the straight leg.
- Inspection: During maintenance, all pawls and springs should be checked for wear and replaced if necessary. The BK4512 service kit provides replacement pawls and springs.
- Disassembly and Reassembly:
- Opening: Remove the top screw, then lift off the drum and stripper arm.
- Internal Access: Pawls, springs, bearings, gear shaft, and gears can then be removed. To access the interior shaft bearing, the entire winch must be removed from the deck.
- Correct Assembly: The manual provides a crucial warning regarding the ratchet gear: if mounted backward, the winch will slip, indicating the importance of correct reassembly.
- Installation:
- Mounting: The winch is mounted using five 1/4" (6 mm) flathead machine screws. Bedding compound should be applied to seal the winch base to the boat, and any excess compound cleaned from the base drain holes.
- Hole Marking: The position of the drive gear where the sheet enters the winch drum should be marked for accurate hole drilling.
The Harken 32.2st Two Speed Self-Tailing Winch is a high-performance piece of marine equipment, designed for reliability and ease of use. Adhering to the detailed installation and maintenance instructions provided in this manual will ensure its optimal function and extend its service life in demanding marine environments.