T&T: anchor chain swivel failure

[Mark Richter]

I will second Chuck's opinion that, in most cases, no swivel is needed, and 
they can often be a weak point in the rode.  We use no swivel on Pooh, 
though I did at some time in the distant past.  Never had a failure, but 
they always seemed to me to be a greater risk than any benefit derived.

Exceptions:  If you stay anchored in one place for months at a time with 
all-chain rode, and the boat goes around and around due either to reversing 
current or clocking winds, you may need a swivel.  Some types of 3-strand 
anchor rode may twist viciously when stretched, and a swivel may help.  But 
in this case, I would consider replacing the line with a better one.

Mark Richter, Winnie the Pooh, Ortona FL
lying Marathon, FL.