Windlass issues

[SLyle01]

Trying to anchor, our windlass jams/fouls every few seconds: chain jumps the 'teeth', then line binds repeatedly. Clutch tension at max. still nothing works well either dropping OR retrieving the anchor.
Windlass doesn't seem well designed. Basically I have to squat at the bow and manually clear the line every few feet...forget the "remote windlass" operation. Is there a lubricant?

 

[SgtAlf]

I found out the hard way the windlass is not powerful enough to retrieve the anchor on it's own. I now drive up the anchor line while retrieving with the windlass. I drive over the anchor to break it free. The line and chain come up easely that way.
I also back down on the anchor when I set it, I've never dragged an anchor since I started doing same.

 

[Bobby P.]

When we first got our boat, the anchor pin was not a swivel. Our chain was twisted, resulting in the same problem you are having. We changed anchors (I prefer a heavy CQR) and at the same time included a swivel connector. West Marine has them. After running the chain though a couple times it straightened out. No more chain jumping! It's hard to see the twist in the chain, but if you inspect closely you can tell.
Good luck!
Bobby

 

[BradOwens]

You may want to go to deep water and slowly let the anchor chain all the way out and retrieve it a few times. That may get rid of any twist in the chain.

 

[Red Raven]

Trying to anchor, our windlass jams/fouls every few seconds: chain jumps the 'teeth', then line binds repeatedly. Clutch tension at max. still nothing works well either dropping OR retrieving the anchor.
Windlass doesn't seem well designed. Basically I have to squat at the bow and manually clear the line every few feet...forget the "remote windlass" operation. Is there a lubricant?

Is your chain the same as the factory set up? If not it could be the wrong size chain for your windlass. For example Proof Coil chain you get at the hardware store will bounce and jam as you describe. The links are too long. The windlass manual gives the chain specs.

Curt

 

[knotflying]

You don't mention how old your windless is. The easy items have been mentioned. You could have a lot of twist in the chain and rode. However just letting it out while in the water may not take out the twist. You may want to let it out while at the dock or on the trailer and stretch it out on land and then twist it as necessary to straighten it. I added a swivel to mine and it made a difference. The other thing you may want to check is the capstan/gypsy and make sure none of the teeth are chipped and that it is in good shape.

 

[Connerkip]

Does your chain roll as it passes over the bow anchor roller? This can cause the chain to jam in the gypsy. Perhaps the roller was modified? A swivel would not help this condition. Also retrieving the chain while the chain is pointed much to port or starboard can cause the chain to roll in the roller.