Maxwell 3500 Series - User Manual

Questions and Answers

B
Brett SerranoJul 27, 2025
Why does my Maxwell 3500 Marine Equipment windlass not move?
- T
  Teresa PotterJul 27, 2025
  Several factors could prevent your Maxwell windlass from moving. First, ensure the isolator switch for windlass controls is ON and check the fuse on the power supply to the controls. Verify the wiring is correct and undamaged. If multiple controls are present (pendant, footswitch, helm switch), test each to isolate the issue. Systematically check the power supply to the controls from the source, identifying where the power stops. Also, check the wiring against the provided diagrams for correctness. Finally, check the power supply lines to the windlass, the main isolator switch, and the hydraulic pump.
K
Kyle SwansonJul 31, 2025
What to do if Maxwell Marine Equipment windlass is not able to pull the specified load?
- J
  Joshua MortonAug 1, 2025
  If your Maxwell windlass struggles to pull the specified load, there are a couple of things to investigate. Begin by checking the nameplate on the motor to ensure the motor voltage matches the power supply on board. If there's a mismatch, contact Maxwell. Also, verify that the hydraulic relief valve is set correctly.
T
Toni BanksAug 4, 2025
Why chain jumps / slips on the chainwheel of my Maxwell 3500?
- A
  ashley30Aug 4, 2025
  If the chain jumps or slips on the chainwheel, it could be due to a few reasons. Contact Maxwell to verify the correct chainwheel selection for the chain you are using. Also, check for any twists in the chain between the windlass and the bow roller and untwist it. Ensure that the horizontal angle of the incoming chain is not greater than 2 degrees. Check the installation and make adjustments if needed.
J
Jenna Smith DVMAug 8, 2025
What to do if electric motor of Maxwell Marine Equipment stops after prolonged heavy use?
- L
  Lee HebertAug 8, 2025
  If the electric motor stops after extended heavy use, it's likely that the motor has been overloaded and reached its critical temperature. Allow the motor to cool down and then reset the circuit breaker.
N
Nicholas NormanAug 13, 2025
Why DC motor draws high current but struggles to pull the load in Maxwell 3500 Marine Equipment?
- L
  Laura HintonAug 13, 2025
  If the DC motor draws high current but struggles to pull the load, it might be because the mounting bolts of the motor are touching the motor winding. Ensure the bolts have spring washers and adjust the bolt length.
S
Sheryl NormanAug 17, 2025
How to troubleshoot anchor free fall issue in Maxwell 3500?
- K
  Katrina BrownAug 17, 2025
  If the anchor does not free fall, several factors could be at play. Make sure that the clutch is fully disengaged. Check if the clutch cones are not greased. If so, disassemble the clutch cones, clean, and grease them. Verify that disc springs are fitted. Check if the pawl is engaged and disengage it.
A
Ashley UnderwoodAug 21, 2025
What to do if Maxwell Marine Equipment windlass runs but the chainwheel stays stationary?
- R
  Richard ParkerAug 21, 2025
  If the windlass runs but the chainwheel remains stationary, tighten the clutch. Also, check whether the chainwheel/drum keys are installed, and if not, install the key.

Summary

INTRODUCTION

PRE-INSTALLATION NOTES

Guidelines before installation and use for long life and reliable performance.

PRODUCT VARIATIONS

Chainwheels

Explanation of chainwheel numbering for correct selection of replacement chainwheels.

SPECIFICATIONS

INSTALLATION

SELECTION OF POSITION FOR THE WINDLASS

Guidance on choosing the optimal location for the windlass and related fittings.

PREPARATION OF MOUNTING AREA

Ensuring adequate deck reinforcement and flatness for secure windlass mounting.

PREPARATION OF THE WINDLASS

Instructions for preparing the windlass itself, including bolt selection and insulation.

INSTALLING THE WINDLASS

Step-by-step instructions for physically mounting the windlass onto the deck.

POWER CONECTIONS TO DC MOTOR

Details on connecting power supply to the DC motor, including cable sizing and terminal connections.

POWER CONNECTION TO HYDRAULIC MOTORS

Guidance on connecting power to hydraulic motors and related components.

INSTALLATION OF CONTROLS

Information on various control options (footswitches, pendants, helm switches) and their installation.

USING THE WINDLASS

PERSONAL SAFETY WARNINGS

Essential safety precautions to prevent injury and accidents during windlass operation.

LOWERING THE ANCHOR UNDER POWER

Procedures for lowering the anchor using the windlass's powered function.

RETRIEVING THE ANCHOR UNDER POWER

Procedures for retrieving the anchor using the windlass's powered function.

LOWERING THE ANCHOR UNDER MANUAL CONTROL

Methods for lowering the anchor manually in emergencies or specific conditions.

RETRIEVING THE ANCHOR UNDER MANUAL CONTROL

Procedure for manually retrieving the anchor using the cranking mechanism in emergencies.

OPERATING THE HORIZONTAL WARPING DRUM INDEPENDENTLY (if fitted)

Instructions for using the warping drum for lines, independent of the chainwheel.

MAINTENANCE

EVERY TRIP

Immediate post-trip maintenance tasks, including checking clutch and washing external parts.

EVERY THREE MONTHS

Detailed maintenance tasks for every three months, including disassembly, cleaning, and greasing.

EVERY YEAR

Annual maintenance tasks, including gearbox and motor servicing.

EVERY 3 YEARS

Maintenance tasks to be performed every three years, including gearbox servicing.

RECOMMENDED LUBRICANTS

List of recommended greases, oils, and coatings for maintaining the windlass.

DISASSEMBLING THE WINDLASS

REMOVAL OF PARTS EXTERNAL OF CASE

Procedures for removing external components like the stripper arm, capstan, and chainwheel.

REMOVAL OF PARTS INTERNAL OF CASE

Instructions for removing internal components from the windlass case.

ASSEMBLY OF PARTS

Guidance on reassembling the windlass components, including lubrication and anti-seize application.

SPARE PARTS

Recommended list of spare parts to keep on hand for maintenance and repair.

TOOLS FOR MAINTENANCE

List of essential tools recommended for windlass disassembly and assembly.

TROUBLESHOOTING

APPENDIX A - DIMENSIONAL DRAWINGS

APPENDIX B - SPARE PARTS

APPENDIX C - ELECTRICAL WIRING SCHEMATICS

HYDRAULIC SCHEMATIC

LIMITED WARRANTY

Maxwell 3500 Series Specifications

General

Manufacturer	Maxwell
Power Source	Electric
Type	Windlass
Series	3500
Chain Size	3/8"
Rope Size	5/8", 3/4"
Voltage	12V, 24V
Motor Voltage	12V, 24V
Boat Size	Up to 50 feet