RE: [Cal_Boats] Backing plate question

Jim, my experience says that a deck mount winch with backing plate is sufficient considering that you are looking at trimming a smaller cutter sail. My biggest concern would be having sufficient strength for the base of the cutter stay. That needs good backing. Use fender washers under the plate(s). I have used either marine ply or Star Board to make a rectangular part with rounded corners (minimizes stress points). ¾ inch thick should do it. ½ inch might be enough. Extend at least an inch beyond the bolts on the winch. We are just trying to spread load. For the 29, I think a 16 winch will work, again because the cutter is smaller. Allen's boat is substantially heavier, and obviously has much bigger sails. Just got home from scenic Kent Island, and have not yet read other responses. Cheers Charlie Annapolis From: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com [mailto:Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Kool Beans Sent: Friday, April 04, 2014 10:32 PM To: ca… [at] yahoogroups.com Subject: [External] [Cal_Boats] Backing plate question Greets everyone,, I'm planning on adding a second pair of winches to used for a additional head sail on Kool Beans (Cal 2-29) as a cutter rig. I have two Barrient, size 16 winches, and I realize that might be somewhat of over kill for what I want to use them for, but they would be a good back up if my main winches for the head sail should fail. My question is this; I would like to have a backing plate for the winches and would like to know what material (wood or metal) should be used. Also, should I make the backing plate larger than the base of the winch? Should it be rectangular or round? ga Any advice would be appreciated, and many thanks in advance from the group! Hope all is well! Regards, Jim Ives - Kool Beans Rochester, NY