One way Windlass

[hamishb]

I am considering the purchase of a Moody 38 which has a Seawolf windlass. I have been told that it only runs one way ( clearly to lift the anchor ). Dropping seems to be done by releasing the gypsy and letting the chain run. I would have thought that the device being a fairly simple motor would have been capable of running in both direction this allowing a controlled pay out of chain when dropping anchor.
Is this type of 'one way' windlass quite common ? Does anyone know if it could perhaps be converted to run in either direction ?
Thks,

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[Guest]

Whether it be full size Ships or smaller yacht windlass - it is generally not regarded as good practice to put out anchor under power unless specific reason to do so.

I have a windlass ... manual job that I can slack the end 'star' holding nut .... this allows the gypsy to run without the pawl engaging. I never use it - as I know it eventually knackers the pawl and one-way system.

You will most likely find you have a one-way pawl inside your windlass - purely to stop the chain exerting too much strain against the motor when it wants to 'back-out'

I will stand corrected if another has done this mod / does this regularly .... but I'm only saying what is general practice ...

It has also to be said that often when anchoring you don't have time for power out chain ...... otherwise the boat si way off the desired anchor point. I for one range enough chain on deck to do the job, then drop, stick engine astern and pull the chain out till near scope, stopping the boat with a touch of ahead to stop the shock of chain coming to end. Then astern to pull back and bed in. All single-handed and known scope run out.


<hr width=100% size=1>Nigel ...
Bilge Keelers get up further ! I only came - cos they said there was FREE Guinness !

 

[ccscott49]

Very common to havea one way windlass, it's highly unlikely your motor can be converted to run in both directions, without a special relay package. Dropping your anchor by freeing the gipsy is the best and usual way, it gets the anchor down the quickest way, i wish my anchor windlass would do the same!

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[kliever]

may be of help :- model 0052000 single direction
0052020 reversing
Just completed a o'haul on my seawolf after motor failure, noted whilst changing bearings that motor pinion brg is uni directional. Motor has a plate indicating direction in relation to +ve/-ve of the two wires, so assume if reversing required that brg must be changed. Slackening the clutch though allows free rotation of the gypsy and anchor weight should ensure a speedy deployment, clutch pressure can be varied. The pawl is activated by a small plastic lever, one model even comes with an electrically released brake

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