Winch line entry angle?

[knuterikt]

Seems different winch makes have different figures for optimum entry angle.

Andersen 3-8° http://andersenwinches.com/aw/downlo...er3.4-3.4F.pdf
Lewmar 5-10° http://www.lewmar.com/products.asp?id=8150&lid=25358
Harken 5-8° http://www.harken.com/article.aspx?id=15885
Pontos 5-10° http://pontos.fr//img/cms/Support/Ma...n%20Manual.pdf

Design of the drum will affect the numbers I guess
So using the numbers for your model & make maybe?

You Ask for acceptable range = how much you can go outside the recommended range.
Any flatter seems is asking for override.
Steeper will for sure be a problem when the line start to ride on the drum base.
I try to follow the install guides..

[Brion Toss]

Hi,
Sorry to have neglected your question, but I've been way off the grid. Manufacturers give those angle recommendations, but when laying out winches I like to use a piece of the actual rope, led from the actual block(s), and go for a lead such that the line is not rubbing on the angled base of the drum. That way you get an override-free lead, but no needless friction, let alone the possibility of an underride.
If the winch is for Genoa sheets, consider a fixed aft block, for a constant ideal lead to the sail.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss