Windlass control solinoid switch

[MAURICE]

I am trying to source a reasonably priced switch for my Lofrans windlass. The type that allows me to drop and retrive my anchor. Has anybody found a good source? have checked out e bay and the net so far they appear to be around the £50 plus mark
Thanks

 

[VicS]

If you need a reversing system take a look at this recent thread

http://www.ybw.com/forums/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/1738273/an/0/page/1#1738273

especially the suggestions by Halcyon

 

[pvb]

Most Lofrans windlasses use a 3-wire motor, Vic, so the diagrams in that thread aren't necessarily appropriate.

 

[pvb]

The Lofrans control box seems to be around £50 in most places. You could theoretically do the job using a couple of automotive starter solenoids, which would cost about half as much, although you'd need to be sure to get ones which can handle the current involved. The advantage of the Lofrans box is that it's sealed, waterproof, and is designed to cope with the current taken by the windlass. If you decide to use two automotive solenoids, you could use this wiring diagram taken from a Lofrans leaflet.

 

[nedmin]

I once used a Landrover starter solenoid. think it was about £15. (the early Landrover) worked OK

 

[Billjratt]

Personally I'd go to a scrappy and get a couple of starter solenoids out of a van or big car. Vehicle wiring products want 50+ squids for a 100amp and 80+ for 200amp which seems expensive to me. But they can be useful for other things =
http://wwww.vehicle-wiring-products.co.uk/VWPweb2000/relays/relays.html

 

[emnick]

Hello, Can anybody confirm the size of the connection stud diameter on a 1000w Lofrans controller. I spoke to EC Smith and the girl told me they were 12mm dia, this seems on the large side. I want to get the leads made up and I dont know what size lugs to buy. Thanks for any help

 

[beserksail]

Nearly sure they are 8mm, will check tomorrow.

 

[macd]

Just checked out the ones on my Lofrans Kobra 1kW control box and the studs are 8mm.
It cost me a skinned knuckle, so if we ever meet up, you owe me a beer /forums/images/graemlins/ooo.gif