[C320-list] Windlass Circuit Breaker

[Rick Smith via C320-list]

The Windlass Circuit Breaker on my Layla #136 (1994 model) died and I'm having trouble finding a replacement. The original was made by ETA. AC115V, DC 28V, 80 amp...and, what holds it in place is the push-button switch.

Catalina Direct says no longer available except in 135 amp...so they offer a breaker with toggle switch which means having to change out the panel (which, of course, they are happy to sell).

Anyone else solved this problem? All hints welcome!

Thank you,
Rick Smith
Lake Lanier, Georgia

[Joe Grande via C320-list]

Mine failed years ago on Whisper #772, 2000. I replaced it with a Blue Seas 80 amp breaker. Faultless function!
Joe Grande


Sent from my T-Mobile 5G Device
Get Outlook for Android<https://aka.ms/AAb9ysg>
________________________________
From: C320-list <c320-lis...@lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of Rick Smith via C320-list <c320...@lists.catalina320.com>
Sent: Tuesday, September 16, 2025 2:47:16 PM
To: Rick Smith <Rick...@rmsmithinc.com>; c320...@lists.catalina320.com <c320...@lists.catalina320.com>
Cc: Rick Smith <Rick...@rmsmithinc.com>
Subject: [C320-list] Windlass Circuit Breaker

[Dave Hupe via C320-list]

I can't  guarantee but think it might be fine to use the higher amp breaker and wonder if installation might take only drilling a larger diameter mount hole in the panel?
Dave Hupe 
1994 C320 #32

Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer

On Tue, Sep 16, 2025 at 5:50 PM, Rick Smith via C320-list<c320...@lists.catalina320.com> wrote: The Windlass Circuit Breaker on my Layla #136 (1994 model) died and I'm having trouble finding a replacement.  The original was made by ETA.  AC115V, DC 28V, 80 amp...and, what holds it in place is the push-button switch.

[Dan Petticord via C320-list]

We ran in to the same problem. Ended up mounting the new breaker on the
bulkhead behind the electrical panel. Not ideal, since I have to pen the
panel to get to the breaker, but it works.

Dan Petticord

[Troy Dunn via C320-list]

Over current protection (fuses and breakers) is there to protect the wire.
Check your wiring to ensure the gauge and rating is sufficient to meet
those standards before swapping out the breaker for a larger one. I think
the wiring for the windlass on most early hulls was AWG 4 and 105°C
insulation. You need to check that to be sure. If it is that size and
rating then you probably could go with a larger breaker according to the
rules but I think 135A might be at the hairy edge. If someone ran that
wire bundled with other wires then 135A is insufficient protection
according to the standard.

Make sure you check both the positive AND negative cables as well as ensure
that there isn’t a smaller wire coming off the windlass.

Good luck

Troy Dunn
Hull #514