Winch Maintenance
Handy Hints
It is a common error to locate the windlass too far forward or too close to the bulkhead, leaving insufficient room for chain and anchor stowing. The chain fall should be positioned in the centre of the chain locker to maximise fall. If the chain falls alongside a bulkhead or onto the stem, it will pyramid and jam.
If the windlass must be positioned such that the chain falls into an undesirable area, a metal tube can be fitted under the hawse pipe to redirect the chain to a preferred position. This pipe should be at least two times the diameter of the chain and as vertical as possible. Position the windlass in the best location with the hawse facing forward.
Ensure sufficient room to run electric cables to the windlass. Follow all installation instructions, including underdeck stiffening, deck camber, alignment, mounting blocks, and sealing procedures. The gearbox and motor can be located in one of eight positions.
Electrical
Wiring Diagrams
Refer to the wiring diagrams at the back of your windlass manual for detailed wiring instructions. Manuals can be downloaded from the Technical Downloads page.
Circuit Breaker
A circuit breaker must be fitted to ensure warranty validity. If the windlass is overloaded or stalled, the circuit breaker will automatically cut power to protect the wiring and motor.
Note: The circuit breaker should not be used as an isolating switch.
Deck Switches
Deck switches are best located either port or starboard of the windlass, or directly behind it—within easy reach of your foot or knee and with a clear view of the anchor and chain as they come aboard.
Isolation Switch
An isolation switch should be installed in an accessible position for safety, ideally near the battery or main switches.
Note: The isolation switch is not a circuit breaker.
Batteries
Batteries should be located as close to the windlass as possible. Larger cables reduce voltage drop and heat build-up during operation, while small-diameter cables can significantly reduce motor performance.
Rotation
Windlasses may be wired for single or dual direction using corresponding single or dual deck switches. Alternatively, a remote control solenoid package can be fitted with a toggle switch, hand pendant, or AutoAnchor system.
Solenoid Installation
Install the solenoid in an upright position, as close as possible to the electric motor or capstan. Do not install the solenoid in a chain locker—it must be located in a dry area only. Refer to the relevant wiring diagram for detailed installation information.
Servicing
Rinse all deck gear with freshwater after every excursion to prevent salt build-up and corrosion. For pleasure vessels, windlasses should be stripped yearly, cleaned, and lubricated with marine-grade Teflon or lithium grease (e.g. Duckhams Keenol, Castrol LMX).
For workboats or charter vessels, servicing should be performed more frequently.
Do not use soap-based grease.
Atlantic models have a grease nipple on the aft side of the base plate, which lubricates the main drive shaft. The gear drive is factory-filled and sealed with long-life synthetic oil that does not require replacement for the life of the unit.
Troubleshooting
Electrical
- Check the battery circuit breaker and ensure the isolating switch is on.
- Confirm the battery is charged to 12 or 24 volts.
- Check the foot switch plunger and remote control solenoid for contact.
- If the solenoid clicks but the motor doesn’t run, the issue may be low voltage, a faulty solenoid, or a loose wire.
- Inspect all wiring between controls, solenoid, and motor for continuity.
- If the motor still will not turn, check that the motor brushes are not worn or sticking.
Mechanical
- Ensure the clutch above the chain gypsy is tightened using the supplied manual handle (see operating instructions).
- If the line slips, check the tension on the finger and adjust spring tension as needed.
- Check the drive key between the gearbox output and main shaft.
- Verify the drive key between the gearbox and motor input is secure.
Hydraulic Motor
Refer any problems with your hydraulic motor to a Muir Service Agent or Muir Kingston for assessment and repair.
