Anchor Windlass clutch issue

[benlui]

First day off on our two week cruise, and our windlass packed up. The motor is working fine, but the windlass itself wont turn under any kind of pressure. Ive obviously tightened the gear, but this is making no difference. I believe the clutch has failed. Has anyone had a similar issue, and is it a big repair?

 

[Yngmar]

What model is it? On our Lofrans Cayman (horizontal shaft), you would see the drive wheel inside the gypsy turn, but not the gypsy if the clutch is slipping. If the drive wheel isn't turning but you hear the motor going, it's going to be a gearbox failure rather than a clutch problem.

Clutch problems should be simple to fix and may often be solved with a regular servicing. That means take off the gypsy, clean it and the clutch cones and apply fresh grease.

But you might have a totally different model...

 

[Vegable]

If it's just the clutch slipping try making up a non slippy washer to go between the gypsy and its tightening screw.
A cut up rubber mat or a pair of Marrigolds for example. Then sort out the problem when you return home.
Mike