Catalina 34

General Activities => Main Message Board => Topic started by: Capt Robert on November 29, 2014, 02:10:43 PM

Title: Maxwell VC500 Capstan
Post by: Capt Robert on November 29, 2014, 02:10:43 PM
I am trying to remove for maintenance and to change gearbox oil. I removed screw from drum but "retaining washer" will not budge! Is there a secret to removing this thing? It's from 1992, I don't want to break it. thanks
Title: Re: Maxwell VC500 Capstan
Post by: Ron Hill on December 02, 2014, 08:35:53 AM
Capt : Why not call Maxwell and ask the company that made it???
Title: Re: Maxwell VC500 Capstan
Post by: Roland Gendreau on December 03, 2014, 07:17:37 AM
I ran into the same difficulty and would be interested in what Maxwell would recommend. I tried heat and a lot of prying and tapping and eventually got it off but the capstan took a beating. Then the grease fitting broke off when I attached the grease gun. The remains of the grease fitting came out with the use of an easy out and I was able to purchase a replacement at a hardware store.

Title: Re: Maxwell VC500 Capstan
Post by: Capt Robert on December 12, 2014, 11:55:18 AM
Test posting. Did response I sent 12/10 get posted?
Title: Re: Maxwell VC500 Capstan
Post by: Noah on December 12, 2014, 05:22:02 PM
I see your "test" but no previous post from Dec. 10
Title: Re: Maxwell VC500 Capstan
Post by: Capt Robert on December 15, 2014, 11:14:45 AM
Update: I spoke with tech at Maxwell service center in FL. He said retaining washer should slide right off, that a couple of screwdrivers wedged under drum should get it off if stubborn. I have already tried this. He recommended getting a puller from a marine bearing company, which I must find.
Title: Re: Maxwell VC500 Capstan
Post by: John Langford on December 16, 2014, 04:28:48 PM
When you get it off, change the oil and reinstall, I recommend taking the drum off and greasing the moving parts annually.