Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Nothing happens when I use the Up & Down switch. What could be causing this?

• A: It could be a shortage of power to the Up & Down switch. Check the connections and clean the terminals. See if the fuse has blown.

Q: The solenoid clicks and the windlass will not go up/down. What is the problem?

• A: Check the power supply to the windlass motor and all connections/terminals. Use a volt meter to check for power to and from Solenoid. If there is no power in either direction, the Solenoid needs to be replaced.

Q: The windlass works normally, but doesn’t have enough power to haul the anchor. What could be causing this?

• A: The windlass clutch is too loose. Use the windlass handle to tighten the top cap of windlass.

Q: The windlass operates normally, but the rode does not come in or gets jammed in my gypsy. Why is this happening?

• A: Check to make sure the rode kit is not getting caught when going through the chain pipe which is the hole in the deck between the windlass and anchor locker. The hole needs to be cut at an angle to prevent the chain/rope from getting hung up. This is also a common problem with new galvanized chain (with a lot of galvanizing on the chain). Bring the chain out and then in again to make sure links are moving freely. Another problem can be the storage room (size of Anchor Locker) for the rode kit. If it is too small, the chain/rope can get jammed. You need to have a sufficient amount of “drop” from the windlass to the bottom of the anchor locker so the rode does not “pile up” and prevent it from falling into the anchor locker properly. If the rode gets stuck without you noticing, the main fuse might blow, so check that also.

Q: My windlass seems weak and powerless, and the up and down speed is slow. What causes this?

• A: Your battery is weak, remember we are dealing with a lot of power consumption. Remember to use the correct cable sizes specified for your windlass. The main fuse might blow under these circumstances.

Q: I have a Stingray Model and don’t see any parts available on your site?

• A: The Stingray Model was discontinued in 2009 and no longer carry replacement parts. We recommend you upgrade your windlass to the new Barracuda Vertical Model.