How to troubleshoot your windlass: if the electric engine runs, the shaft rotates up not down
23-10-2019
Problem:
The electric engine runs, the shaft rotates Up, but does not rotate Down
Possible causes:
1.1 The chain locker is tangled; therefore, the emergency mechanism becomes operative.
1.2 The chain is of poor quality with burrs and zinc deposits that do not allow the free flow of the
links; therefore, the emergency mechanism becomes operative.
1.3 The chain was placed in the locker in block and the links are stuck with each other; therefore,
the emergency mechanism becomes operative.
1.4 Wear of the emergency mechanism of the spring control.
1.5 The chain stripper interferes with the gypsy: it is possible to weigh the
operation, while to lower, the emergency mechanism becomes operative.
Solution:
1.1 Check out that immediately after the anchor there is a joint that allows the chain to unfold
properly when weighed.
1.2 Remove the chain from the locker and inspect it link by link. Intervene with the appropriate
tools to make it as loose as possible and free of obstructions.
1.3 Lower manually all the chain in a sea bed deep enough to enable it to unfold properly.
Retrieve it with the winch.
1.4 A (SERVICE) Uninstall the winch from the boat and disassemble it into its parts by
replacing the spring. Take advantage of this opportunity to replace any other worn parts,
gaskets, screws, tabs, seeger, and oil.
B (SERVICE) It is possible to block the EMERGENCY MECHANISM so that the gears are
always engaged both in UP and in Down. This operation must be authorized by the
shipowner. The solution rules out completely the possibility of carrying out the emergency
operation.
1.5 Restore the condition of the chain stripper by repositioning properly in the gypsy centreline. If
it is deformed. It must be replaced.