Cobaltchat.com

Has anyone retro fitted a windlass on an R5 ?

Not retrofitted, but my R5 has a factory installed windlass, I love it. I think one could be retrofitted, you would have to fabricate the shelf that it is mounted to inside the anchor locker and get the pulpit hardware. Hardest part would be cutting out the bow area to mount the anchor roller. I doubt there was a different hull mold for boats with a windlass. Maybe call Cobalt or have your dealer check into it -- you might be able to get the windlass kit and install process. I am just taking a guess, but if you anchor a lot like I do, you it is one of the best things about my R5.

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So glad you found us jorsr.

Have not retrofitted but billk has some good feedback.

And welcome aboard mate.
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I found within all of the documents that came with my new R5 a template for the bow cutout. Cutting it would not be for the faint of heart - it is thick! I love the all chain windlass!

I will call cobalt to find out if its possible to buy all the equipment from them and have someone install only problem will be is cutting the hole but im sure it can be done

"I will call cobalt . . ."

In consultation with the mechanic who did my install, my strategy was: First choose the windlass. (I went with the Lewmar v700, vertical.) Then follow the manufacturer's specs for the rest of the accessories, e.g., pulpit, chain/rope. It's very important for all the elements to be integrated. Be sure to install a button at the helm.

Called main office today but they are closed this week

I keep this picture around for threads like this. This is a pic I took on the factory tour that a few members of this forum did back in 2018.

This is a R bow cut for a windlass. I am still amazed at how thick the glass is on the bow.

I get a windlass would be nice, I wish ours had one both for looks and functionality, but I don't think its worth cutting through a structural piece of the boat that is that thick to get it. I am sure there are folks out there braver than me that would happily make the cut though. Good luck.

I'm interested in this, as my new to me R7 doesn't have the windlass.

I'm more concerned about the chain storage than the bow cut...my anchor locker is no where near that deep.

Structurally, that part of the bow should not be consequential, otherwise all the boats with a windlass would be compromised.

Kate wrote: Mon Jul 01, 2024 8:06 am "I will call cobalt . . ."

In consultation with the mechanic who did my install, my strategy was: First choose the windlass. (I went with the Lewmar v700, vertical.) Then follow the manufacturer's specs for the rest of the accessories, e.g., pulpit, chain/rope. It's very important for all the elements to be integrated. Be sure to install a button at the helm.

Kate, did you do a through bow install like the factory option? Or something different? Windlass is the one option my new to me R7 doesn't have that I'm interested in.

Your dealer has most likely done this in the past. I had my dealer install mine after the fact. I would recommend them doing it. The wiring and installation matches how it would be done in the factory. It may be possible to have the dealer order the kit for you as a DIY but....

"did you do a through bow install like the factory option?"

I went through the bow deck.

"Windlass is the one option my new to me R7 doesn't have that I'm interested in."

Imagine using a dishwasher versus washing by hand. Now multiple that by 10.

My dealer said they are not set up to add the windlass, but can add about any other option. I guess they don't want to cut the bow. But yes, I would not consider a DIY for built in windlass. I guess I can call around to other nearby dealers...before I sell my trailer.

Your in Knoxville TN? Cobalt's TN plant is not far away - given you can't find a dealer to help, maybe Cobalt would do it if you bring the boat to them? Maybe wishful thinking, but can't hurt to ask.

"I guess I can call around to other nearby dealers . . ."

You don't need a dealer. A competent boat mechanic can install a windlass. Mine did.