old Lofrans Windlass servicing problem

[roam]

Hello
This is a bit of a long shot, but I’m getting desperate!

We have a Lofrans windlass identified as a Cayman –pre 88 – so the outer casing is all one piece and there is no oil filler cap. The only way to access the inside is to unscrew the windlass from the deck! We have no instruction manual.

We have been trying to service the unit but are having some difficulty getting to the oil filler or the sight gauge.
I don’t suppose there is anyone out there that remembers this unit and would be able to give us a hint on how to do this, preferably without having to remove the spindle?

many thanks!

 

[pvb]

See this exploded drawing. Isn't the oil filler the bolt on the front (item 336)?

You can also download the manual from here.

 

[roam]

thanks pvb, but this is an OLD Cayman - the version pre this model (if only i could work out how to add images to my posts, you cd see that this model has no oil filler on the casing!)

maybe someone out there has a manual that has the relevant drawings etc?

 

[pvb]

Sorry, misread your question. Why not email Lofrans?

 

[roam]

i've tried that....no joy
have emailed ecsmith. they have just replied and said we have to dismantle the whole thing /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

 

[pvb]

Sounds like it was designed by people who'd never have to service it! Bit like the oil filter on the front face of my Volvo 2003 engine!

 

[samwise]

We have a Lofrans manual windlass which is lubed for life. I wonder if yours is similar and does not need an oil change as part of the service procedure?