Starboard for windlass base?

[cabo_sailor]

I'm installing a new Maxwell electric windlass. In order to get a fair lead for the chain I need to raise the windlass about 1/2 in. The old windlass used a wooden base. Over time it was looking rather decrepit.

I'm wanting to install a new base that looks good, has as close to zero maintenance as possible and most importantly has the strength for the job.

I was looking at starboard but some one told me it would crush like styrofoam when the windlass was under strain.

Any thoughts ?

Rich


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[Sailmonkey]

I'd go with fr4 or g10 board, starboard will deform, warp, and leak. By warp and deform, I mean it will displace slowly from the loaded areas changing it's shape.

[sy_gilana]

No, not starboard, try this...

Plastic deck boards&Foreverdock floating dock made with alternative to wood deckinglastic lumber.

Everlasting, that's the problem...

[Cheechako]

I'd have no problem with Starboard. Used it once for that application.

[Strait Shooter]

I'd be weary of using starboard in this application.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Micarta would be something I can attest to being a good candidate for this usage.

[laika]

g10 is wonderful stuff. Check out mcmaster carr. 1/2" shouldn't be too expensive.

Also great for backing plates

[Cheechako]

Originally Posted by Strait Shooter

I'd be weary of using starboard in this application.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Micarta would be something I can attest to being a good candidate for this usage.

There are different forms of Micarta I think. Be aware some absorb water and swell. I didn't know they still made that stuff! Basically cloth and plastic combined isn't it? kinda like fiberglass layup only with cloth...?

[oldragbaggers]

Originally Posted by cabo_sailor

I'm installing a new Maxwell electric windlass. In order to get a fair lead for the chain I need to raise the windlass about 1/2 in. The old windlass used a wooden base. Over time it was looking rather decrepit.

I'm wanting to install a new base that looks good, has as close to zero maintenance as possible and most importantly has the strength for the job.

I was looking at starboard but some one told me it would crush like styrofoam when the windlass was under strain.

Any thoughts ?

Rich


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I would think G10 would be a better choice. Bond it to your deck, paint it and forget about it. Comes in thicknesses up to 1/2"

G10 Fiberglass Board

[cabo_sailor]

A friend at the marina has offered me some Ipe wood. I guess it's Brazilian walnut. It's also harder than nails. I would need plenty of spare blades and bits to work this. I gather it's used extensively for outdoor furniture and virtually indestructible. Prior to this I've never heard of it.


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[barnakiel]

Fabricate one in female mold with gelcoat, grp and plywood.

b.

[cabo_sailor]

Yes the G10 would work I guess but $210 usd for a 2x3x1/2 is a bit rich for my blood.



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[cabo_sailor]

Originally Posted by barnakiel

Fabricate one in female mold with gelcoat, grp and plywood.

b.

WORK! Besides what would keep the gelcoat from cracking when the windlass was under load?


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[Cheechako]

Originally Posted by cabo_sailor

A friend at the marina has offered me some Ipe wood. I guess it's Brazilian walnut. It's also harder than nails. I would need plenty of spare blades and bits to work this. I gather it's used extensively for outdoor furniture and virtually indestructible. Prior to this I've never heard of it.


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you want something very weather resistant. Getting the material is the easy part, maintaining it, installing it etc is the hard part. Don't use improper material just because it's free.... that's the tail wagging the dog! (I don't know if that wood is good or not)
You may be overthinking this, Starboard has been used a lot, G10 may be better. etc. Keep in mind some Starboard is denser than lighter weight Starboard.

[cabo_sailor]

I'll check with a local marine store that sells and will fabricate starboard. Call me cynical but I like to have additional input, such as from you gentlemen, before talking to a salesman.


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[DefinitelyMe]

Did some of my winches from starboard and they're fine, but they're only about a year old now. I have heard that some sealants have trouble sticking to the starboard so they can start to leak over time. Mine haven't yet, but i sealed the bolts where they go through the deck rather than trying to seal the starboard. I used 3M UV4000.