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The anchor windlass and chain
Two things are important:
• Always run the engine if an electric windlass is used. (To charge the batteries)
• Lubricate regularly.
Tighten the clutch only so much that the anchor will come over the roller, but no more.
ALWAYS KEEP CLEAR OF THE CHAIN.
The windlass is unbelievably strong. If you have the ability to operate the
windlass from the cockpit, be sure nobody is in the way on deck.
When the anchor is up, it shall be secured with a line. You shall also turn the
switch for windlass off. Otherwise you may accidentally launch the anchor
when sailing.
You should be alone near the windlass when you work with it. Keep away from the chain and be
careful. Keep children away!
Handling:
On the top or on the starboard side, depending on type of anchor windlass, is a clutch that is operated
with a separate handle. By releasing the clutch the chain- gipsy can be made free from the rope drum,
making this available for hauling of lines.
To drop the anchor, first ease the clutch by turning the handle anti clockwise, sufficient to lift the
anchor forward, until it hangs vertical from the bow roller, ready to drop.
If your anchor windlass has a two-way electronic control, the clutch needs no attending and the chain
can be backed up by pushing the ”down” button.
If the clutch is used to drop the anchor, also use this as a brake to regulate the speed.
If the anchor winch’s electric motor is overloaded, the automatic circuit breaker will trigger off. The
combined switch and overload breaker is found near the navigation table or under the forward berths.
When at anchor, the steamhead fitting and the anchor winch shall not be under load. Neither the
steamhead fitting, nor the anchor winch is designed to take the forces that may occur when anchoring
in fresh wind. To unload, you shall hook a mooring line in the chain. The other end is tied at the cleat.
Then you release so much chain that the load comes on the mooring line and not on the chain. As a
bonus, that will also reduce the noise in the boat under anchor.
Anchor Chain
Galvanized Chain is standard on all boats that are delivered with a windlass.
You can expect to have to re-galvanize the chain after app. 3-5 years if you are on an extended cruise
with daily use of the anchor.
A way to extend the life of the chain is to take the chain out and put the anchor in the other end after 3
years.
Danger !
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