The modern anchor windlass is a fraction of the size of its predecessors yet has as much, if not more, power and a generally higher operating speed. Vertical windlasses such as this V700 are compact in the extreme due to the motor being mounted below deck and offering a very low profile compared with the more traditional horizontal type where everything is contained within the windlass body above the deck.
There is very little difference in the installation process for vertical and horizontal types, the main point being that the vertical machine requires an additional large hole in the deck to accommodate the motor, as well as the hole providing access to the chain locker required by both types. Electrical connections, including the main circuit breaker, reversing contactor, and wiring are all identical. As this particular windlass (like most modern vertical models) includes a rode counter sensor, we are also installing a rode/chain counter in the installation.
The windlass kit (pic 1)
Here we have the basic kit straight out of the box. Clockwise, starting with the windlass itself, we then have the manual operating spanner, which is also used for installing the windlass mounting studs (already loosely screwed into the windlass body). Then the chain feed ring, which protects the sides of the hole where the chain passes into the chain locker; the installation and operating instructions; the windlass operating switch; the mounting gasket; and finally, the steel backing plate that fits below the deck.
Note: Also included in the set is the reversing contactor and main circuit breaker that will be mounted in the vessel’s electrical department.
Mounting the windlass (pic 2)
The cutting and mounting template is positioned on the deck following the instructions in the installation manual and the mounting position in relation to the bow roller is marked onto the deck. (In this instance we are also fitting a new self-stowing bow roller as part of the job).
Note: If the deck is not perfectly flat, a mounting pad will be needed to take up the curvature where the windlass is to be fitted. It is also important to ensure there is sufficient drop inside the chain locker to allow the weight of the chain to draw it off the gypsy when hauling in. A minimum of 300mm is required.
Electrical connections
It is important to use the correct size of cable for the length of the run to avoid voltage drop and reduced performance. The cable run is the total length of the positive and negative cables when added together.
Writing diagrams
Fitting the bow roller
Conclusion
A straightforward job requiring only care in the positioning of the equipment and good strong fixings and backing plates.
We will be looking at fitting a chain counter sensor into
a non-standard windlass in a later article.
For details of your nearest Lewmar supplier contact Kiwi Yachting, phone: 09 360 0300, email: sales@kiwiyachting.co.nz or www.kiwiyachting.co.nz
