Sven Yrvindvideo
A simple winch for the practical man.
August 2, 2026 · 6 min · 1K views
What this video covers
Sven Yrvind constructs a simple, low-cost winch mechanism designed to provide high mechanical advantage for tensioning lines on a small boat. The device consists of a six-sided metal component operated by a standard spanner, which generates 20 times the applied force.1:39 This winch serves as an alternative to expensive, heavy commercial winches for tasks such as reefing or tensioning halyards. When paired with polyester rope, the system provides significant tension, though the rope’s elasticity allows for some spring-back.3:07 Replacing the polyester with Dyneema significantly increases stiffness and reduces stretch, though the high force generated can cause the metal components to bend.4:20 The design is intended for use on a future vessel featuring 120 kilograms of moving ballast, which requires 12 individual winches to manage the weight distribution.0:27 The mechanism also functions as a tool for cleaning barnacles from the hull in cold water.5:07
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