On Thu, 20 Jul 2006 11:47:29 -0400, "GBM"
wrote:

Question is, is why do some windlasses draw double the current when
everything else (max load, working load, chain speed) is the same or even
sometimes worse?

Higher current draw is almost always indicative of a more powerful
motor. Max load, working load and chainspeed are all fuctions of how
strongly the unit is built and the gear ratios. Weight and size are
good indicators of overall ruggedness as well. A small light weight
unit with similar specs is frequently compromised in the area of
durability. My former boat had a beautifully designed windlass which
was very sleek looking and not terribly large for its power and speed.
The gear box however looked like a Swiss watch on the inside and was
just about as reliable when exposed to a rough and tumble, salt water
environment.