[C320-list] Maxwell VC500 Windlass - Reversible?

[Dennis Cookson]

Thanks for all replies to this post.  My Maxwell windlass was modified by a previous owner to add a gypsy, which works well, but there is no clutch. If you’re not careful it’s possible to pull the anchor in so tight against the bow roller that you can’t then get the chain off the gypsy without damaging something.  That’s the reason I’m looking into having a reversing capability, so I can ease off the tension if necessary.  

Dennis Cookson
#0577/1999


> On 8 May 2020, at 16:36, Jack Brennan <jackbrennan at bellsouth.net> wrote:
> 
> In our sailing club, some members, particularly when they reach a certain age, invest in a powerful electric windlass and go all-chain. 
> 
> The idea is to be able to raise and lower the anchor from the helm without going forward, particularly when the weather is bad. It’s much more common on powerboats and trawlers, but it makes sense when you’re 75 and want to find ways to stay on the water.
> 
> I’m not sure the VC 500 fits into the category of powerful windlass, though. When my time comes, it will be something more beefy than that.
> 
> Jack Brennan
> Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
> Tierra Verde, Fl.
> Dolphin Cruising Club of Florida
> 
> 
> 
> 
> Sent from Mail for Windows 10
> 
> From: Pat Tormey
> Sent: Friday, May 8, 2020 11:17 AM
> To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
> Subject: Re: [C320-list] Maxwell VC500 Windlass - Reversible?
> 
> My choice was to keep crews hands away from the chain, my brother lost his grip and  tried to grab the spooling chain. And, I always have the option to free wheel or bypass the windlass. 
> 
> At $200 it wasn’t worth it. But at <$50 it was. 
> 
> Pat
> 
> Pat Tormey 
> s/v Blue Skies
> 
> From: Gene Gammon
> Sent: Friday, May 8, 2020 11:04 AM
> To: C320-List at catalina320.com
> Subject: Re: [C320-list] Maxwell VC500 Windlass - Reversible?
> 
> When I want to drop an anchor, I want it down right now, asap, not feeding it out.  I have never found a reason for a reverse solenoid switch and have built and sold sailboats for over 40 years.
> 
> 
> Gene Gammon, Capt.
> 
> 
> Catalina 320 #351
> 
> www.gcyachts.com<http://www.gcyachts.com>
> 
> www.irwinyachts.com<http://www.irwinyachts.com>
> 
> 
>