[C320-list] Windlass

[jim brown]

I have a Maxwell VW 500 windlass on our boat (hull 973). The foot switch is single and only operates to bring up the chain-and it works fine. I usually anchor in shallow water so usually just play out chain and rode by hand and use the windlass only for hoisting the last feet of chain and anchor (33 lb Spade). I was thinking of servicing it and tried to have the chain and anchor free fall when the top nut is "cracked" open a little with the supplied bar but I can't budge the chain when pulling on it even with the nut very loose (even stood on the anchor). The manual is not very helpful because it describes installation only with an up and down switch. Isn't their supposed to be a free fall mode? If so what would cause it not to release?
Jim Brown