I will admit to reading quite quickly so it is quite possible I missed something, but the winch on the stbd side of the boom would likely be for the reefing lines for the klew. The tack hook doesn't need a winch.
Also, the outhaul (when not reefed) has a purchase block system inside the boom and should not require a winch (nor is it really conveniently placed to use one).
To answer the original question, this was not fitted as standard equipment from Catalina and was likely added at commissioning or by a previous owner. It is indeed helpful and worth making use of.
Also, the outhaul (when not reefed) has a purchase block system inside the boom and should not require a winch (nor is it really conveniently placed to use one).
To answer the original question, this was not fitted as standard equipment from Catalina and was likely added at commissioning or by a previous owner. It is indeed helpful and worth making use of.