
On Cool Change we deploy two different snubbers on their own or in combination, depending on the circumstances and severity of the weather and
anchoring conditions.
A Snubber is really a device that provides shock absorption.
While reducing the chances of:
1. Stripping the gears of your expensive windlass,
2. Reducing the risks of dragging your anchor,
3. Significantly reducing shock loads on your anchor chain,
the snubber also assists in reducing and dampening of the so called
“noisy chain rumble” as well as the irritating noise that travels as vibrations
up the chain.
On Cool Change we have two different snubbers.
One short one that attaches to a strong point in the anchor well and is mainly there to protect the windlass, and
A second, longer one, that can be used additionally as a single rope attached to a cleat or if weather conditions require as a v-bridle attached to both forward cleats.
One important aspect of a good snubber is that it is of sufficient length to provide the required stretch for proper shock absorption. Therefore the length of our snubber is approximately 4 meters and has proven to be sufficient enough, even in a severe blow.
While some people attach the snubber to the chain via a rolling hitch, we have opted for a simple chain hook, which can be quickly removed in an emergency. To stop it from falling off, we simply use a rubber band that does the job brilliantly in all conditions (see picture below).
As with all rope, good chafe protection is absolutely necessary and therefore, on our longer snubber, we have used a stainless steel eye splice at the point where the chain hook is attached.