Well started the process of replacing my antiquated 500 windlass. Started today to remove the capstan and not going very well. Anyone done this with success? Looking for tips, since capstan is very will fixed to the shaft. Will keep u you posted on project.
I have had mine appart and back on again. PB Blaster is a great penitrating oil. Let it soak for several days. It will make your life easier.
Ross & Joanne
Wavelength
Saint John NB
RKYC
C36 #658 TR 1987
Ross, was that enough to free up the slotted screw?
Gary Bain
S/V "Gone With The Wind"
Catalina 36', Hull #: 1056, Year: 1990, Engine: M-35
Standard Rig
Moored: Boothbay Harbor, Maine
Home: Auburn, Maine
I did not have a lot of problems. Generally with PB and a few hits with a brass hammer things will loosen up. Heat is always a last resort. Some times you can get a puller on them as well.
Ross & Joanne
Wavelength
Saint John NB
RKYC
C36 #658 TR 1987
I also have a Maxwell 500 on my 34. It may be antiquated, but it still works quite well. I'm curious why you're replacing it. The other question is: What are you replacing it with?
Mick and Sherrie Laver
CINNAMON
C34 Mk II #1432
San Diego, CA
First off, replacing with maxwell VW10 has both chain gypsy and capstan, plus will go from chain to rode seamlessly. Old one works but after 18 years time to upgrade, on going process with all systems. Got capstan off, screw was a piece of cake, but drum was a workout, finally heated drum and used a large screwdriver to work it up about an inch. Then went to Pep Boys and used there free rental program to get a 7 ton pulley puller. From there things went pretty smoothly. Next step was to remove base plate, 4 screws came out easily but no luck getting plate to budge. Spent some time today at boat and after studying assembly diagram I got from Maxwell I think I discovered what is holding base plate on. Seems four bolts on inside that hold windlass against bulkhead may thread into the plate also from backside. Will do that project on Sunday and remove unit if it works. Then I will do minor gelcoating in locker before proceeding with install. I am trying to document this project so others will have much easier time. That old 500 windlass was used on a lot of 36's with horizontal mount.
I did the same upgrade three years ago. It was simple getting the old windlass out, which was pretty much in fine condition. Getting the new one in was simple as well, requiring only a bit of cutting with a jig saw to open up the mounting hole for the bigger windlass. I think because our boat is a freshwater boat the job was easy. Salt water seems so hard on metals.
By the way Chic, perhaps you could fill in an auto signature with your boat and location info? It's helpful for members to know that information when responding to posts.
Bud, #1474 in rochester, New York, old windlass is out, old holes filled and ready for new gelcoat. Waiting for VW10 to come next week. After much thought ordered wireless remote vs a wired remote.