R23 Windlass not working

[cstpt]

After launching this year the windlass on our 2018 is unresponsive. I can hear a bit of a whir or whine from behind the panel when I activate the helm switches. Nothing happens with the foot switches. I've reset the breaker and checked the batteries. I suspect either the solenoid or the windlass itself. Has anyone dealt with this or know where the solenoid is located?

 

[cstpt]

After launching this year the windlass on our 2018 is unresponsive. I can hear a bit of a whir or whine from behind the panel when I activate the helm switches. Nothing happens with the foot switches. I've reset the breaker and checked the batteries. I suspect either the solenoid or the windlass itself. Has anyone dealt with this or know where the solenoid is located?

Since posting this I've found a couple of threads relating to it. I've DM'd a poster whose dealer sent a picture of the location for the contactor box. Hoping the problem is simply a loose connection. Any additional info or advice is welcome!

 

[Brian John]

My two-year-old windlass stopped working 2 days before selling the tug. Replaced the windlass and disassembled, the housing had water, and the motor was faulted.

 

[cstpt]

My two-year-old windlass stopped working 2 days before selling the tug. Replaced the windlass and disassembled, the housing had water, and the motor was faulted.

While I assumed that the problem was in the electrical circuit, I (eventually) determined that the voltage going to the windlass was well over 12 volts, so I've concluded the Lewmar windlass is the problem. Somewhat reluctantly, I've ordered what appears to be an identical replacement (Pro Series 550) since the swap will be easy. The original lasted seven years, so I guess I can't really complain. You are not the only person to describe water ingress.

 

[cstpt]

While I assumed that the problem was in the electrical circuit, I (eventually) determined that the voltage going to the windlass was well over 12 volts, so I've concluded the Lewmar windlass is the problem. Somewhat reluctantly, I've ordered what appears to be an identical replacement (Pro Series 550) since the swap will be easy. The original lasted seven years, so I guess I can't really complain. You are not the only person to describe water ingress.

I never was able to locate the contactor box--it seems to be tucked away inside the electronics alcove, perhaps behind the circuit breaker. But I can hear the solenoids clicking so I assume it is functioning properly.