96' Maxwell RC Windless problems

Audrey II

Audrey II

Active member
Member
Joined
Aug 5, 2008
RO Number
30499
Messages
6,405
I have rarely had any issues with my windless and those that I did were easy fixes. Today my wife wanted to clean the anchor chain so she let it all out at dock when it reached the end it jammed and although after much difficulty to unjam the chain it no longer works. The motor turns but the capstan doesn't move. I'm sure there must be a clutch or something but I can't seem to get the unit apart and I can't find a manual on line either. I have looked at every manual on their site and nothing even resembles my windless. I would like to believe this will be an easy fix but I fear the worst. The big problem is I plan to start a trip next weekend and I'm not sure what to do about this. I don't need the anchor for anything but emergencies I'm not planing to spent any night on a hook other them one night on a mooring. I just would feel much better starting a trip with it working!!

If anyone is familiar with the old RC line (there is no model number just RC) please help me out here.

Thank You!
 
If there is an odd-shaped indent in the top of your capstan, that is where a "wrench" fits to adjust the clutch. The wrench tool might have gotten lost over the years. Loosening the capstan will allow the top to come off and you should be able to see the clutch-which is brass disc. More than likely, tightening up the clutch via the wrench will solve the problem. Good luck!!
 
I have the tool:) I have unscrewed the allen screw inside and still I can't get the capstan to budge! I even tried a pipe wrench on it.
 
I had sent an email to Maxwell and they promptly replied they sent me the parts list and diagram which shows that I have been correctly attempting to take it apart but I have been unable to break it free. Now that I'm sure I doing it correctly I will have to try even harder. The bad news is they no longer stock parts so if I need anything it will be hard to find!
 
PB Blaster to the rescue??? If you can find the offending bolt or nut, Loctite Freeze n Release has saved me many aggravating efforts to free a frozen whutnot. Hard to believe Maxwell isn't supporting their product-10 yrs. and counting is when you rely on a manufacturer to be able to supply replacement parts. Prior to 10 years, you shouldn't be having to replace anything on a windlass IMHO.
 
I spoke with Maxwell today and I must say it was a very pleasant experience! I would not hesitate to purchase another unit from them.
While I was still unable to free the top bolt after speaking to a salesman/tech he told me that it was likely the roll pin sheared and that I should pull the motor sure as day it was sheared. The good news is it is a $2 part:) I hope to find one locally but if I must I can order one and have it overnight ship to me so I would have it in time for my trip. They don't sell direct but they do sell to WM and they have no minimum orders so it is not an issue.

Hopefully I will have a chance to get the part and put it back together tomorrow one less headache before my trip.
 
Glad to hear you got it worked out!

One reason I love Ideal windlasses... US owned and made, and they support everything they've made for the last 75 years or so. And you can buy/deal with them direct.
 
Aside from the parts not being available for an old windless I have to say they could not have been nicer to deal with!

BTW the part that did break they do still use and sell for about $2.
 
I stop up at the boat this afternoon and install the roll pin I put it back together and frankly I'm a little surprised but it works perfectly. It is a little hard to believe the a 5mm roll pin is maintaining all of the power that the windless produces. I can't believe it lasted as long as it did. I will keep extras on board going forward!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top