Jammed Windlass

[Doug]

I have an Ideal windlass on my ’84 46’ Uniflite. The up/down switches stopped working. I ordered a new switch and installed it on the Up side (two foot-operated switches on the foredeck.) It tested well – too well. The chain is jammed in the windlass in the up position and I cannot loosen it. I removed the down switch and touched the wires together. I hear the solenoid ‘click’, so I know I’ve got power and the solenoid is working. But the winch does not turn to loosen the chain and drop the anchor. Is it possible the chain being jammed very tight is causing the motor to not turn counterclockwise (thus lowering the anchor)? If so, any ideas on how to un-jam the chain from the windlass? I’ve even smacked the chain with a 5 lb iron hammer to no avail. Is there a clutch somewhere that will disengage it?

 

Any ideas?

 

Doug

[Maggie Harbour]

I have an Ideal and the clutches are on the handle side of chain gypsy? loosen hand wheel and it should unbind? I sent you a picture for ref.

GP

[Doug]

Thanks, GP. Unfortunately, I have a model V3C – vertical mount. It doesn’t look anything like yours. But thanks for your response. Much appreciated.

 

Doug