Inflatable boats have long ceased to be just a means for quiet fishing near the shore, becoming full-fledged vessels for serious water travel. PVC boat In windy weather or in the course of the river, it requires considerable physical effort, especially when you need to hold a position for fishing or photography. electroanchor A device that takes the heavy lifting of a boat.
Unlike the classic anchor, which you have to pick and pick and pick, the electric one makes it automatic and silent, and it's not just a convenience, it's a radical change in how you operate a boat, so you can focus on the main thing, fishing or enjoying nature. boats They have already appreciated the advantages of not having to worry too much with a wet cable and a dirty anchor.
However, the installation of such equipment on the soft side has its own unique features and requires careful preparation. Incorrect installation can lead to damage to cylinders or even to tip the boat in a sharp jerk. winchesmethods of its reliable fixation on PVC and the rules of safe operation.
The main advantage of electromechanics is that it can be controlled with one hand, which is critical in emergency situations. Modern models are equipped with remote control panels, foot pedals, and even integration with cartplotters. The choice of the right model depends on the displacement of your boat and the conditions in which you plan to use it.
Principle of operation and Construction of the electric anchor
Constructively winch-window It's an electric motor, gearbox, and cable winding drum, enclosed in a sealed case, and the principle of operation is simple: when you power it, the motor turns the drum, picking the cable or giving it away under its own weight of the load anchor. friction-brakewhich prevents the cable from unwinding spontaneously under load.
It is important to understand the difference between traction and load capacity. If the hull is marked with a force of 300 kg, it does not mean that the winch will lift this weight vertically upwards without the risk of overheating. For water transport, the term "drawing" is used, which depends on the resistance of water and wind. Engine power directly affects the speed of the anchor sampling and the ability to resist the flow.
⚠️ Warning: Never use an electric anchor as your primary insurance when mooring to a dock in a storm. The mechanism is not designed for a constant static load from excitement, which can lead to combustion of the engine winding or breakage of gears gears gears.
The device is controlled through a secure control unit that switches high-power currents, and in high-quality models, there is thermal protection and an automatic fuse that turns off power when the anchor is jammed. stuffing from failing at the most inopportune moment.
Why can’t you use a normal car winch?
Car winches do not have protection from moisture and corrosion in marine design. In addition, their braking mechanism often requires manual unlocking, which is uncomfortable and dangerous on water. Specialized anchor winches have automatic friction and IP67 and higher tightness.
Criteria for the selection of a winch for an inflatable vessel
When selecting equipment for PVC boatsinflatable tubes are sensitive to shifting of the center of gravity, so heavy winches weighing more than 15-20 kg require reinforced transom or installation in the bow with an additional balance. Lightweight aluminum models weighing 6-9 kg are considered optimal for boats up to 4 meters long.
The body material is also critical: Cheap, painted steel models rust quickly in salt water, even when used carefully. Stainless steel Or silumine with a quality powder coating is the only sure choice for long-term service. Pay attention to the markings "Marine Grade" or "Salt Water Protected".
The type of cable is another important aspect: the steel cable is stronger but heavier and can rust and also hurt when cliffed. The synthetic cable (Dyneema or analogue) is lighter, does not absorb water and is safer, but is afraid of friction against the sharp edges of shells or stones. flyboat synthetics are preferred due to the lower weight and the absence of the risk of damaging the cylinder with rusty wire.
- 🔋 Current consumption: Make sure your battery is capable of delivering the initiation current needed for the winch. It's usually 15-30 Amps at full load.
- ⚓ Weight of anchorElectromechanism should easily raise the anchor along with the ground. PVC boats usually have enough anchors weighing 4-6 kg.
- 🎛️ Type of managementChoose models with a long cable wired remote (minimum 2-3 meters) or wireless control for comfort.
- 🌊 Sample speed: The optimal is 15-20 meters per minute, and a faster sample can lead to engine overload.
Comparative table of popular models
To simplify navigation around the market, we have compiled a comparative table of specifications of popular models suitable for installation on the market. boatsThese parameters will help determine the budget and functionality.
| Model | Max. traction (kg) | Weight (kg) | Case material | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miniflex 250 | 115 | 6.5 | aluminum | Compact, perfect for PVC |
| Marine 300SS | 136 | 12.0 | Nerzh. | High corrosion resistance |
| PowerAnchor Pro | 250 | 14.5 | Silumin | Powerful motor, quick lift |
| LiteWind 150 | 68 | 5.2 | Plastic/Steel | Budget option for small boats |
When analyzing the table, it is worth considering that the declared thrust is often achieved at a minimum sampling speed. Real performance in conditions of a grassy bottom or strong wind may vary. Aluminum models They gain weight, but are inferior in strength when hitting stones compared to steel counterparts.
Preparation for installation: tools and materials
Installation electro-anchor In PVC, a boat is a creative process, but it requires engineering, and the soft surface of the balloon doesn't allow you to just screw the winch with bolts, you have to create a rigid base that will spread the load over a large area, most often using a plywood platform or a metal frame that covers the bow.
To work, you will need: moisture-resistant plywood (FSF grades at least 10 mm thick), stainless bolts and nuts, rubber gaskets, seam sealant, as well as tools for working with electricity. electrowiring: the cable cross section must match the winch consumption current to avoid voltage drop and heating.
☑️ Installation tools
Before starting work, you must thoroughly dry the boat and degrease the contact areas of the platform with PVC. The use of aggressive solvents is prohibited, as they can damage the protective layer of tissue.
Step-by-step instructions for mounting a boat on the nose
The installation of the winch begins with the construction of the mounting pad, cut out the plywood part into the shape of the nose cylinder so that it fits tightly into it, the edge of the plywood must be treated with water-repellent impregnation and painted in several layers, which will prevent the material from swelling during prolonged contact with water.
The platform is then attached to the cylinder with wide slings or belts that are passed under the bottom of the boat or attached to the slims, and it is important to ensure that the winch does not "walk" when sampling the anchor. Fastening elements shall not have sharp edges capable of wiping the cylinder fabric when rolling.
The winch itself is attached to the plywood platform through rubber vibrator insulators, which will reduce the vibration from the engine to the boat hull, and after the mechanical installation, the electrical part is connected, and the cable is laid inside the boat along the side, protected by a corrugated or cable channel, to prevent accidental damage.
⚠️ Warning: It is strictly forbidden to run a power cable through sharp corners of the transom or seams at the junction of cylinders without additional protection, Vibration and friction quickly outlast the insulation, which will lead to short circuit and fire.
For quick installation and winch removal, use a quick removable mounting system (quick release), which allows you to dismantle heavy equipment in a couple of minutes if you need to pass under low bridges or transport a boat on a trailer without excess weight.
The final step is to place an anchor bench at the very edge of the nose, and the cable has to exit the winch, go through the roller and go into the water at an angle close to the horizontal, which minimizes the friction of the cable against the side and ensures the right direction of thrust. Anchor cable It should not touch the sharp edges of the platform.
Rules for safe operation and maintenance
Use of use electromechanics You need discipline in water. Never let the rope wind over your arm or leg. When sampling the anchor, keep a safe distance from the tension line. If the anchor is stuck, don't try to pull it out at full power, it can break the engine shaft or break the cable.
After each release, especially in salt water, the mechanism must be rinsed with fresh water. Periodically, once a season, it is recommended to remove the protective casing, check the condition of the engine brushes and lubricate the gearbox with a special water-resistant lubricant. Regular TO extends the life of the device several times.
- 🔌 Battery: Always charge the battery immediately after fishing. Deep discharge is detrimental to lead acid batteries.
- 🧼 Cleaning.Remove the sand and dirt from the drum, they act as an abrasive, rubbing the turns of the cable.
- 🔧 Checking the fasteners: Before each trip, check the tightening of the winch mount bolts to the platform.
- 🌡️ Temperature conditionsLet the engine cool down after prolonged work under load to avoid overheating of the windings.
It is better to store the winch in winter in a dry heated room. If this is not possible, make sure that there is no moisture inside the case, which, when frozen, can expand and damage parts. Conservation Metal surfaces with protective lubrication are mandatory to prevent corrosion in the off-season.
The main rule of safety: Always have a knife with a fixed blade, fixed on the belt or in an accessible place. In the case of entanglement of the cable around the propeller of the motor or limbs, only the knife will help to quickly free yourself.
Frequent Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Can an electric anchor be used at a speed of more than 2 knots?
The use of an electric anchor on a strong current is possible, but not recommended as the main method of fixation. At a flow rate of more than 2 knots, the load on the mechanism increases dramatically, and the anchor can simply drag along the bottom without getting hooked, in such conditions it is more effective to use an anchor spindle or anchor along the current using the inertia of the boat.
Which battery is better to choose to power the winch?
Deep Cycle traction batteries, such as gel (GEL) or AGM, are the best choice. They can give off energy for a long time and withstand many charge-discharge cycles. Starter car batteries are less suitable for this purpose, as they quickly degrade when operating in constant thrust mode.
What to do if there is no electricity in the middle of the water?
All high-quality electric anchor winches are equipped with a free fall system, usually a lever or button that unlocks the friction, allowing the anchor to fall freely to the bottom under its own weight.
Should I lubricate the winch cable?
Steel cable should be periodically lubricated with graphite or Teflon lubricant to protect against corrosion and reduce friction between turns. Synthetic cable does not need to be lubricated, it is enough to rinse it in clean water from salt and dirt.
Does the installation of a winch affect the stability of the PVC boat?
Yes, the installation of heavy equipment in the bow can significantly affect the balance and stability, the boat can start to "nose" on the wave. To compensate for the weight of the winch and battery (which is better placed closer to the center or at the stern), it is recommended to move passengers or cargo closer to the nose, or choose the lightest models of winches.