Inflatable boat owners often face a dilemma: maintain lightweight construction or improve the comfort of the vessel. Installing fixed equipment on the soft side requires a balanced approach, but modern technology allows you to combine reliability and mobility. Electric anchorThe electric anchor winch becomes the element that brings fishing or rest on the water to a fundamentally new level of comfort.
It's not about fully automating the process, it's about a mechanical assistant who takes on the hardest physical work, which is lifting cargo from the bottom of a pond along with the anchor chain. For one fisherman or a small company, pulling 10-15 kilograms of wet metal and silt by hand can be difficult, especially in windy weather or in strong currents. electric drive It solves this problem in seconds, saving energy for more important tasks.
However, the installation of such a device on the boat from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) has its own technical nuances, different from the installation on a rigid case. You need to consider the weight of the unit, the way it is attached to the inflated cylinder and, critically, the organization of self-contained power supply. In this article, we will discuss in detail all aspects of the selection, installation and operation of anchor systems for inflatable boats.
Principle of operation and advantages of automation
The basis of the system is an electric motor, which through the gearbox transmits rotation to the spoole or drum. Unlike manual mechanisms, where constant physical effort is required, here the operator only controls the process by pressing a button or switching the toggle. Anchor winch allows you to smoothly lower the anchor to a given depth and, more importantly, quickly pull the vessel to the parking point, choosing the weakness of the cable.
The main advantage is the ability to control one hand, which is especially valuable when maneuvering alone. The fisherman can simultaneously hold a fishing rod or control the motor while the anchor takes up its position. In addition, the electric drive minimizes the risk of entanglement of the rope, since the tension is adjusted automatically or controlled, without jerks typical of manual sampling.
⚠️ Warning: Never try to stop a spinning drum with your hand or foot! this can cause serious injury to the fingers or damage to the mechanism.
Modern models are equipped with overload protection and reverse mode. If the anchor is stuck between the stones, short-term operation of the motor in the opposite direction often helps to release the hook. PVC This is especially true, since sharp jerks during manual sampling can damage the transom plate or cylinders.
Use the anchor end of a contrasting color (for example, bright orange or yellow) - this will help to visually control its position and notice the entanglement around the engine screw in time.
Criteria for the selection of a winch for an inflatable vessel
When choosing equipment for an inflatable boat, weight becomes the key parameter. If for an aluminum boat, a winch weighing 10-12 kg does not play a large role, then for a lightweight boat, the weight of the boat is not very important. frigate or hunter Every extra kilogram on the transom is critical, and you need to find a balance between traction and mass of the device, and the best option is compact models with thrust up to 300-400 kg, which weigh less than 5-7 kg.
The second important aspect is the material of execution. The marine environment is aggressive, so the body and working elements must be made of stainless steel or aluminum with a high-quality powder coating. Cheap steel counterparts will quickly become rusted, which will not only spoil the appearance, but can also stain the light side of the boat. Stainless steel It's preferable, but more expensive.
Also worth paying attention to the type of control. wired remotes are more reliable and do not require batteries, but limit the mobility of the operator. Wireless models are more convenient, but require control of the battery charge of the remote. For fishing alone, often choose combination options or simple wired systems with a button attached to the belt or clothing.
- 🏆 Traction force: for boats up to 4 meters long enough winch with a thrust of 250-350 kg.
- ⚖️ Weight of the device: Try not to exceed 6-7 kg to maintain the running qualities of the boat.
- 🔋 Current consumption: Pay attention to the current strength under load to correctly calculate the capacity of the battery.
Comparative table of popular models
There are many modifications on the market, from low-end Chinese products to professional equipment, and to make navigation easier, we have compiled a comparative description of the basic parameters that are found in most manufacturers.
| Parameter | Budgetary models | Middle class | Premium segment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Case material | Painted steel | Aluminum alloy | Stainless steel AISI 316 |
| Weight (kg) | 8 - 12 | 5 - 7 | 4 - 6 |
| Sample speed | 10 - 12 m/min | 15 - 18 m/min | 20+ m/min |
| IP protection | IP54 (splash) | IP65 (jet) | IP67 (submersion) |
As you can see from the table, the overpayment for premium The class is often driven by materials and weight, and for seasonal freshwater use, mid-range models are sufficient, and are lighter and better protected from moisture, prolonging the life of a permanent water service.
The length of the anchor rope is worth mentioning separately, as standard winches are designed for 30-50 meters of cable. For deep-sea fishing on large rivers, this may not be enough, but for most reservoirs and lakes this length is quite enough. Increasing the length of the cable will require a more roomy drum, which will affect the dimensions of the device.
Features of installation on the transom of the PVC boat
Installing an anchor winch on an inflatable boat is a creative process, because manufacturers rarely provide regular space for such equipment. The main method of attachment is using a transom plate or a special bracket. It is important to understand that you can not simply screw a winch to a soft cylinder: you need a rigid base.
If your boat already has a rigid transom for the engine, the winch is often attached to the inside or to a special shelf above it, but this shifts the center of gravity, and a more intelligent option is to use a removable platform of moisture-resistant plywood or aluminum, which is attached to the cylinder with slings and belts that cover the side. Stiffness of attachment - the guarantee of safety and durability.
When installing, rollers or guides for the anchor rope must be provided. The cable must de-roll and go into the water at the correct angle, without rubbing against the side of the boat or the attachment elements. anchor-hole It is a great way to save life and to save it from the swelling.
How to make a platform yourself?
To make a platform, take a sheet of plywood 10-12 mm thick, soak it in olifer or yacht varnish in 3-4 layers. At the corners, fasten metal eyelets to attach the belts to the boat. Bolt the winch through rubber gaskets to quench the vibration.
Keep in mind the ergonomics, the control button should be at hand, but in a safe place where water will not get when the boat moves, the wires should be laid in corrugated cable channels and fixed securely so that they do not hang around and interfere with movement on the cockpit.
Connection scheme and power supply organization
An electric anchor is a powerful energy consumer. The average current consumption is 30-50 Amps in operating mode and can reach 100 Amps at start or start. A standard motor battery (usually 55-75 A/h) may not cope with this load unless you calculate the capacity reserve. tractor.
The use of thin wires will lead to a drop in voltage at the ends, overheating of the insulation and loss of engine power. For currents up to 50 Amps, the minimum cross-section of the copper wire should be 6 mm2 (GOST), and preferably 10 mm2. The length of the wires from the battery to the winch should be minimal.
Connection diagram:[Battery +] --- [Main safety 60A] --- [Contactor/Relay] --- [Swan]
[Battery -] ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A safety lock is a mandatory element of the circuit, which is installed as close as possible to the battery's plus terminal, which will protect the wiring from ignition in the event of a short circuit, and it is also recommended to install the voltmeter in an accessible place to monitor the battery level in real time. AKB It is harmful to lead acid batteries.
☑️ Checking the circuit
Operation, maintenance and security measures
Even the most reliable winch requires maintenance, especially after operation in salt water or muddy rivers. After each foray, it is advisable to rinse the mechanism with fresh water. Periodically, once a season, you need to remove the protective casing, clean the gearbox from old lubricant and apply a new, marine lubricant that is resistant to washing.
When using an anchor on the current, it is important to observe safety precautions: the anchor should be lowered only from the bow of the boat (or specially equipped nose mount), but never tie the anchor end rigidly to the transom. This can lead to the tipping of the boat in strong current or wind when it drags the stern under water. PVC This rule is vital.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to wind the anchor end on the arm! With a sharp jerk or entanglement, this can lead to the limb being tightened into the mechanism or overboard.
Store the winch in winter should be in a dry room, before completely drying. If the device is removable, it is better to dismantle it and put it in a box. Permanently installed models on the transom plate also require preservation: processing metal parts with anticores and removing terminals from the battery.
Regular lubrication of the gearbox and checking the tightening of the mounting bolts is a guarantee that the winch will not fail at the most inopportune moment on a strong current.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a winch for boats with a 5 hp engine?
Yes, it is possible. The weight of the winch (about 5-7 kg) and the battery (about 15-20 kg) is quite acceptable for boats under a 5 hp engine, if the total load does not exceed the rated carrying capacity of the vessel.
Which battery is better to choose: Gel, AGM or regular?
For anchor winch, traction batteries of the type are best suited AGM or GelThey are better at keeping loads, are not afraid of deep discharge and, importantly for boats, are completely sealed and safe (do not emit gas when charged).
What if the anchor is stuck dead?
Do not try to snatch it at full engine gas - it is dangerous for the boat. PVCGet as close as possible to the hook point, pick the slack of the rope with the winch, then carefully back up, changing the angle of tension. Often, the approach from different angles helps. At the very least, use buoys and leave anchor, returning later with a more powerful vessel.
Should I lubricate the winch cable?
The synthetic cable does not need to be lubricated, it does not rust on its own. It is advisable to periodically soak the steel cable (anchor molt) with a special lubricant or graphite composition to prevent corrosion inside the core and facilitate the slide of the turns on the drum.