Lofrans windlass solenoid problem

[steve_cronin]

Re: Forget the hammer too....

[ QUOTE ]

I remember having read Lofrans Tech department answer to one user who experienced the same problem

they indicated voltage drop as the main cause: the solenoid would start clicking (at high frequency), and eventually cause contacts to stick

they advised trying to reduce voltage drop by the usual means (higher wire diameter, clean contacts, new batteries, etc), or otherwise connect the solenoid control wires to a current source immune from the motor voltage drop, like the service battery bank

[/ QUOTE ]

Not THAT rare then if they have a stock answer ready for it.

That is a Cop Out if ever I heard one. Surely they should make their unit able to cope with ALL the conditions in which it is reasonably likely to find itself required to operate?

Low battery voltage on a sailboat, in the morning when the windlass is likely to be used? HOW unusual is that. Then there is the likelihood of Mrs Skipper doing a few litle clicks as the hook approaches park as her standard method of operation.

This has a bit of the "wrong kind of snow" about it, it seems to me.

Steve Cronin

 

[rogerthebodger]

You have the right Idea. In fact the screw on the cone clutch should only be tightened only just enough to breakout the anchor under "normal" conditions and to raise the anchor but to slip when the anchor reaches the bow roller so that if the relay contacts do weld no damage will be done to the windlass.

The use of starter solenoid relays should be used with caution as the coils are not continuously rated

 

[TiggerToo]

interesting thread.

Just to add to the chorus ( a bit late): I have experienced/am experiencing the same problems. So it does seem to be a common issue.