Mac 25 keel cable replacement size

[mick hodapp]

Hello, can anyone tell me if i can go up to 1/4" from the standard 3/16" ss cable without replacing the turning ball that feeds the cable up to the winch, will it pass through ? Also, does 11 ft of cable leave me a couple of turns around the Dutton Lainson 800 brake winch when the keel is fully lowered ? Thanks folks

[kmclemore]

!	kmclemore:
	Mick, I deleted your duplicate posting. The reason this one was delayed in appearing is that all initial posts by new members need to be approved by an admin before they'll appear (and we're not constantly watching the forum!). This prevents spam and noxious postings from appearing in the forum.

[mick hodapp]

Thanks, i wasn't sure it went through the first time

[Sisu]

1/4" is pretty big, and probably not necessary. The breaking strength of 3/16 cable is in excess of 3500 lbs and your keel is 625-ish. If you want to replace the cable, Blue Water Yachts sells it pre-swaged and in the correct length.

[Tsatzsue]

I would stick with the 3/16 size. If anything increase the winch capacity. I have a rigger make two cables for me. 12'. When my winch failked I installed a 1200# model. Northern Tool has them. Make sure you check which way it winds if you replace it. Each modael is sold both ways.

[Jonair222]

I used a synthetic ATV wuinch cable from Harbour Freight, checked it last week and a little dirty but no fraying, nada.
been about 1 year. It's nice cuz it has a little flex and no worries about rust. Also i figure if i ever wrap it up on something i can dive on it with a knife.