Abstract: A device for winding and unwinding a waterski tow-line comprises a substantially enclosed housing having a spool mounted for rotation in the housing. A driven gear is mounted on the spool for rotational driving thereof. A drive shaft is journaled in the housing for rotation and for axial sliding relative to the housing and the drive shaft has a first end portion protruding from the housing and a second end portion extending into the housing. A drive gear is rigidly affixed to the drive shaft for rotation and for axial sliding with it. A spring is mounted in the housing to bias the drive gear into meshing engagement with the driven gear. A crank lever is pivotally connected to the second end portion of the drive shaft by an eccentrically positioned pivot pin.