Description
Andersen 12 ST FS Winch | Boat Supply Store
For sailors demanding extended rope life and reduced maintenance, the Andersen 12 ST FS self-tailing winch stands apart. Its patented Power Rib™ drum design, featuring a 2-3/4" diameter, eliminates abrasive surfaces, ensuring minimal wear on lines up to 9/16" diameter. With a 1.3:1 gear ratio for its first speed, this full stainless steel winch delivers efficient line hauling for mid-sized monohulls or dinghies operating in diverse coastal conditions.
Key Features
- Maximum Rope Longevity with patented Power Rib™ drum design
- Exceptional Durability due to full stainless steel construction
- Effortless Line Handling enabled by the self-tailing mechanism
- Reliable Single-Speed Operation for straightforward sail control
- Efficient Power Gain with a 9.5:1 power ratio
- Corrosion Resistance for saltwater environments
- Compact Footprint with a 5" height and 4-1/2" base diameter
- Versatile Line Compatibility for sizes 5/16" to 9/16"
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Drum diameter | 2-3/4" |
| Base diameter | 4-1/2" |
| Height | 5" |
| Line entry | 1-3/4" |
| Accommodates line sizes | 5/16" to 9/16" |
| Weight | 5.7lb |
| Gear ratio (1st speed) | 1.3:1 |
| Power ratio (1st speed) | 9.5:1 |
Who This Is For
Sailors and boat owners requiring a robust manual winch for single-speed applications, prioritizing the preservation of their running rigging and ease of operation. This winch is designed for those who value long-term durability and efficient performance in coastal cruising or racing scenarios.
How It Compares
| Feature | Andersen 12 ST FS Winch | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Drum Diameter | 2-3/4" | 5.5" |
| Gear Ratio 1st Speed | 1.3 : 1 | 2.0 : 1 |
| Weight | 5.7lb | 16.5 lbs, 15.4 lbs |
| Drum Surface Technology | Power Rib™ | Standard abrasive drum, Standard drum |
Common Concerns Answered
The Andersen 12 ST FS winch is priced higher than some competitors. Is it worth the investment?
Yes, the higher initial cost is offset by the winch's superior construction and patented Power Rib™ drum technology, which significantly extends the lifespan of your ropes by minimizing abrasive wear, leading to long-term savings and reduced maintenance.
Will the smaller drum size of the Andersen 12 ST FS require more effort for heavy loads?
While larger winches might require fewer turns for extremely heavy loads, the Andersen 12 ST FS features a 9.5:1 power ratio on its first speed, providing substantial mechanical advantage for efficient line hauling, making it suitable for its intended application size.
Is the single-speed design limiting for larger vessels or complex sail trim?
The single-speed design is optimized for reliability and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for the specific applications and boat sizes this winch is engineered for. For larger vessels requiring multiple gear ratios, Andersen offers a range of multi-speed winches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Power Rib™ technology on Andersen winches?
Power Rib™ is a patented drum surface design on Andersen winches characterized by raised ribs that provide exceptional grip on the rope while minimizing abrasive contact, thus reducing rope wear significantly compared to standard grooved or smooth drums.
How is the Power Ratio calculated for Andersen winches?
The power ratio is calculated by dividing the mechanical advantage provided by the winch's internal gearing. For the Andersen 12 ST FS, the first speed offers a power ratio of 9.5:1, meaning it multiplies your input effort 9.5 times.
What is the recommended line size for the Andersen 12 ST FS winch?
The Andersen 12 ST FS winch is designed to accommodate standard marine lines ranging from 5/16 inches (8mm) to 9/16 inches (14mm) in diameter, ensuring compatibility with a broad spectrum of running rigging.
What is the gear ratio for the first speed of this winch?
The first speed gear ratio for the Andersen 12 ST FS self-tailing manual single speed winch is 1.3:1.
How does the Power Rib™ system reduce wear on ropes?
The Power Rib™ system reduces wear by creating discrete contact points between the drum and the rope. These ribs grip the rope effectively without the constant, broad friction associated with abrasive drum surfaces, thereby minimizing abrasion and extending rope lifespan.
