Windlass Removal instuctions
DanD2
Member Posts: 848 ✭✭✭
My windlass is not working and I've narrowed it down to the motor so I decided to remove it this weekend. First step was to unscrew the side mounted deckplate in the v-berth. Once I did that I quickly figured out that although I could see the chain and rode, access to remove the windlass was pretty limited.
I attempted to remove the mirror and make an access hole.....problem was I couldn't wedge the mirror out so onto the next step.
I decided to remove the speakers and see what's behind them. Low and behold, I saw 2 screws behind each speaker holding the top piece in place. One screw was tucked behind the vinyl and the other was on the inside on an angle bracket.
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Once that was done, after unplugging the speakers, I could tilt the whole top piece out of the way. Here's a pic of the mirror with that piece off.
Cut back the vinyl and drill some holes with a hole saw....BE CAREFUL HERE!!!! MAKE SURE YOU FEEL UP FROM THE ACCESS PORT TO ENSURE THAT YOU DON'T CUT ANY WIRES.
I then used a saws all to create an large access hole.....not the prettiest of holes but it'll work and you'll never see it once everything is put back together. After that, removal of my windlass was very easy.
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Hope this helps someone down the road....
Comments
I just reached in the access port under the mirror when I replaced mine.
Cause there was some screws I couldn't get out and it looked like a whole lot of work. The shelves on both sides needed to come out from what I could see......felt it would be easier this way
Weber, I started to do that but really wanted better access....I have a feeling that I won't be able to fix this thing and may need to do more work when installing a new one.
Strange...I reached in with a ratchet and extension, undid the three bolts holding the windlass, pulled the wires into the berth, cut them, then removed the windlass from above. Reversed for install. Hardest part was having extra bolts and washers in-case I dropped them while reaching up to find the bolts.
Same one as I had, the Horizon 600. I knew the motor was slowing down, so I had a spare one I bought from ebay.