Maxwell RC800 windlass

[jcoll]

I searched the site for previous posts on this subject but couldn't find an answer for this problem. My windlass is generally in good working order although I seem to have a problem that I gather is somewhat common to this unit. The pressure arm seems to break frequently - at least more than I'd like. I have replaced it about once per year. Last time I replaced it and the stripper. I have a new rode and chain this year also. When the rode/chain splice section passes through it tends to bind. I go slowly to avoid damage but it is difficult. Any suggestions on how to avoid this or repairs that anyone knows to improve on this would be appreciated.

[Midnightsun]

I think you may be using the wrong type of chain or something. Reason I say this is my previous Avanti had an RC500, used hundreds of times over a 10 year period and never an issue. Same for the New carver.

[mjk1040]

5/8" rope and 5/16" chain. A problem I had was to much rope in the locker. Thus it wouldn't fall down the locker hole and just sit there and ball up. Broke the stripper but not the tensioner last time.

[jcoll]

The new anchor rode is 5/16" chain and 5/8" rope as specified in the paper work I got with the boat. 150' total length and it drops in the locker very nicely.

[mjk1040]

Do you have a swivel connector from the rode to the anchor? If not that might be a twisting issue causing the line to ball up? I just installed a swivel angle connector and seems to be working better now! Also check the hole going into the locker for anything that could catch the rope or chain. Maybe sand the hole area some?

[jcoll]

There was a swivel on the previous rode, still experienced the problem then. I did away with it on the new rode. I tend to see it as a weak link. I know I'm getting some twisting but the rope still drops into the locker without balling up in a pile. I always take the rode out for winter storage and that's when I straighten it out. Is there a way to untwist it without removing it from the boat? I ask this because it did work better earlier in the year before the twist got in the rope.

[mjk1040]

Not that I know of, the swivel though I thinks does help. Then again maybe that's why they discontinued the RC800 & RC500 models?

[Viper]

So I'm assuming we're talking about a Freedom 800 and not an RC8??

Are you using 3-strand rope? If so, twisting is the nature of the beast. It has to be laid out straight and untwisted periodically. A swivel definitely helps minimize the twisting. You should also ensure the unit was installed properly to begin with. If the rode is entering the unit on an angle, you'll always have problems after a while. You'll ware out parts and rope.

I trust you are powering the vessel up to the anchor as you haul up the gear and not using the windlass to pull the weight of the boat?

The pressure arm is a regular maintenance item. Some may get away for years without replacing it but it is a part that's supposed to be inspected every season.

[jcoll]

Qr Bbpost So I'm assuming we're talking about a Freedom 800 and not an RC8??

Yes, you are correct it's a Freedom 800. I posted the wrong model.

Are you using 3-strand rope? If so, twisting is the nature of the beast. It has to be laid out straight and untwisted periodically. A swivel definitely helps minimize the twisting. You should also ensure the unit was installed properly to begin with. If the rode is entering the unit on an angle, you'll always have problems after a while. You'll ware out parts and rope.

Three strand rope with 15' of chain. How much of an angle is too much and how would it be corrected if it is too much - shimming? What would be used as a shim if that's the way?

I trust you are powering the vessel up to the anchor as you haul up the gear and not using the windlass to pull the weight of the boat?

Yes, powering the vessel up to the anchor.

The pressure arm is a regular maintenance item. Some may get away for years without replacing it but it is a part that's supposed to be inspected every season.

I'm beginning to realize it's a yearly maintenance item. The darn thing reminds mean yearly that it's time is up by breaking

For those that use a swivel, what swivel (brand) do you trust enough to use and do you replace it periodically?

[Midnightsun]

Personally I use Suncor. I have only had it for 2 years and based myself on the working strength when I chose this. Most of these are rather pathetic here but this one fairs quite well as a 1/4-5/16" is good for 8500lbs. http://www.suncorstainless.com/anchor-swivel-0