Windlass Installation

Just completed the windlass installation which was my third big spring project to be done prior to departure for the summer.  It turned out to be more time consuming then I thought it would be!

Installation Layout

 I chose this center installation over the standard bow mount for the following reasons: 

1. Keep weight centered in the boat. 
2. Use the original center mounted roller, which I like. 
3. Avoid the bow roller protruding beyond the front of the bow.
4. Facilitate draining the rode before storage. 
5. Storage of rode in aft end of locker to keep weight centered. 


Doug has a particularly nice system with everything controlled from the helm which is probably one of the best automatic systems out there.  My system is much more manual but still takes the work out of lifting anchor. I chose not to go with the conventional installation for the reasons stated.

Here is the wiring diagram for the installation.  One difference is the connection is not directly to the battery post itself but rather to the battery input terminal to the main CB panel.

Powerwinch Wiring Diagram

Following are a series of photos illustrating the system both using a mooring line and the actual rode.  I have 20 feet of chain and pull in about half before I have to do the rest by hand.  By that point the work is done.

Mooring Line Used To Show Perspective

The following pics is the actual rode being pulled in up to the chain:

Rode being retrieved, line flaked onto trampoline

Here is the chain approaching the windlass which requires a tie off and hand work at that point:

Chain approaching windlass, I work it by hand at this point.

Here are a few more shots showing the system:

Different Angle

NOTE:  You might note the trampoline is attached via bungee cord, a much superior lashing.  Keeps it tensioned and absolutely quiet. 

Following are some interior shots.  I found it very restrictive to work through the cubby holes in this bulkhead for connecting wires to the winch so will be installing an access hatch in this bulkhead to make this easier for future maintenance. 

Backing Plate For Mooring Bit

The Back Of The Main CB Panel

Nice to  have this project done.  It was a real downer when this was all installed and I stepped on the switch and the motor ran and but the windlass did not turn! 

I called the company and they said to take the windlass apart and I would likely find a small gear had fallen off.  I did take it apart but the gear was not the problem, rather the motor was not aligned properly to engage the windlass. It was a simple re-adjustment to engage it properly and put the cover back on.  Should not happen with a new unit!  Such is the life and times of boats...nothing quite works out as planned!