Windlass Solenoid

[Stefanojo]

Hello All,

I'm about to replace my Maxwell VW 800 windlass with an RC8-8. While preparing for the installation, I can't seem to find the solenoid.  The original is a one way set-up (up only). Anyone with the same set up have a clue as to where they may have put the solenoid?

Thanks!

Steve

[waughoo]

Everything SHOULD be forward of the removeable wood bulkhead at the forward end of the vee berth.  I'd suggest following the wires off the windlass till you find it.

[Noah]

Here is how I installed my larger Maxwell VW-10. It is super powerful! Although my install was a bit more complicated as I added an AutoAnchor brand wireless remote/rode counter system as well. All sits forward of the removable bulkhead, except the remote transmitter, which is just aft of the bulkhead. It has a fuse in it, which I wanted to have easy access to. I abandoned the single foot switch in favor of the remote. I didn't have room in the anchor locker to add a second foot switch. My original V300 windlass had only an "up" foot switch and no chain capabilities. I also installed a waterproof outlet for a corded remote inside the anchor locker as a back-up. I haven't needed to use the corded one.

[rmjohns]

Steve,
    If it's like my 1998, there wasn't a solenoid from the factory. Catalina ran the 4gauge positive to the foot switch and then from the foot switch to the windlass. That worked since it was only 1 direction.  I ended up epoxying a piece of plywood behind the forward bulk head and then mounting the new solenoid to that.

Rob

[Jim Hardesty]

Everything SHOULD be forward of the removeable wood bulkhead at the forward end of the vee berth.  I'd suggest following the wires off the windlass till you find it.

That's where they are on Shamrock.
Jim

[Stefanojo]

Good call, Rob - no solenoid, wired directly.  When you say you epoxied a piece of plywood behind the forward bulkhead, do you mean on the fiberglass or on the wood bulkhead?

Noah, looks like you attached your solenoid to the fiberglass itself, as well as some wood to the fiberglass for your terminal blocks. Can you guys tell me how you did that. I have no experience with this kind of thing.


Lastly, how do you like your wireless remote, Noah. I'm thinking of using the same one.

[Noah]

Yes I like my remote but very expensive. Also, the chain counter is a bit finicky, but my all-chain rode is painted so don't rely on chain counter. But remote is very good/handy. It is also waterproof and floats (don't ask how I know;-)
To attach stuff to hull; rough-up surface with 80 grit then use some thickened epoxy and duct tape over until epoxy is dry. Epoxy takes very little clamping pressure.

[rmjohns]

I actually epoxied it to the back of the anchor well. Now that I look at it, I probably should have put a layer of glass over that plywood.

I just did the two foot switches, though I think a remote would be a good idea. I find the chain stacks up in the anchor well and I have to knock it over, so I end up using my knee on the foot switch.   I also screwed a thin piece of HDPE behind the capstan to absorb some of the beating the chain was giving the fiberglass.

[Stefanojo]

Thanks Noah and Rob.  Both comments very helpful.  Interesting that both of you have a horizontal windlass, while mine is vertical.

[Noah]

The MKI is not designed for a vertical windlass in the anchor locker.

[Jon W]

The Maxwell VW10 is a vertical windlass. It's been mounted like a horizontal windlass.