Why Your Anchor Chain Skips and Jumps: Chain and Gypsy Mismatch Explained

Learn the "How" to anchoring with NauticEd's Anchoring Course - https://www.nauticed.org/sailing-courses/view/anchoring-a-sailboat?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=65-ls5E2RQg Check out IMTRA the windlass experts - https://www.imtra.com If your anchor chain is skipping, jumping, or jamming in the chain wheel, the most likely cause is a mismatch between your chain type and your gypsy — and it is one of the most misdiagnosed problems in windlass operation. This NauticEd video explains exactly why chain skipping happens on horizontal windlasses, how to identify a chain and gypsy mismatch, and how to measure your chain correctly so you can fix it right the first time. What this video covers: - Why chain skipping is far more common on horizontal windlasses than vertical windlasses and the reason for that difference - How lead angle affects chain engagement and causes skipping even when the chain and gypsy are correctly matched - The three main chain types used in the marine industry: Proof Coil, BBB Triple B, and G43 High Test — and why they are not interchangeable - Why High Test chain links are longer in pitch than Triple B at the same diameter, causing them to skip when run through a Triple B gypsy - How to read the stampings and codes cast into your chain wheel to identify what chain type it is designed for - How gypsy wear causes the link pocket shoulders to soften over time, leading to skipping even with a matched chain - The four critical chain measurements you need before ordering a replacement gypsy or chain: rod thickness, pitch, inside link length, and inside and outside link width - Why a caliper is required for accurate chain measurement and why a tape measure is not sufficient - How to decide whether to replace the chain or replace the gypsy when a mismatch is confirmed A chain and gypsy mismatch does not fix itself. Running mismatched components accelerates wear on both and will eventually result in a jam or a dropped anchor. Getting the match right is one of the most important steps in windlass maintenance. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:14 - Horizontal vs Vertical Windlasses: Why It Matters 00:29 - Lead Angle as a Cause of Chain Skipping 00:47 - Why Chain and Gypsy Mismatch Causes Skipping 00:57 - The Three Chain Types: Proof Coil, BBB, and High Test 02:08 - How to Read the Stampings on Your Chain Wheel 02:39 - Replace the Chain or Replace the Gypsy? 02:55 - How Gypsy Wear Causes Skipping Over Time 03:15 - How to Measure Chain Correctly with a Caliper #sailinggear #sailing #boating #boatinggear