Keeping Your Anchor System in Top Shape.
Your windlass is one of the hardest-working and most overlooked systems on board. Whether you’re anchoring in the Bahamas or setting up on the hook for a sunset dinner, a well-maintained windlass ensures smooth deployment and retrieval of your ground tackle—without back-breaking labor or embarrassing delays.
What to Watch For
Here’s what every yacht owner should know about routine windlass maintenance:
Slow or Labored Operation: If your windlass is straining, stuttering, or slower than usual, it may be due to worn brushes, low voltage, or internal corrosion.
Clicking or Grinding Sounds: These are signs of gear wear or chain misalignment. Don’t ignore odd noises—they usually signal trouble ahead.
Chain Jumping or Slipping: This could indicate a worn gypsy (the notched wheel that grabs your chain) or a mismatched chain-to-gypsy fit.
Oil Leaks: Some windlasses are oil-filled. Check for leaks or cloudy sight glass fluid—this could signal a bad seal or water intrusion.
Dave Sr.’s Routine Windlass Maintenance Tips
Dave Sr. has provided detailed tips on how to keep your windlass performing optimally.
Read below about how YOU can perform each of these detailed maintenance items.
- Rinse After Every Use: Salt and sand are windlass killers. Give the windlass and chain a freshwater rinse after every anchor operation. We recommend using a product call Salt Away for these rinses. We are big proponents of using this product for all your vessel exterior cleaning.
- Monthly Inspection: Check the chain and rope for wear and ensure the gypsy and chain wheel are free of corrosion or buildup. Also, check the deck fittings to see if you have water leaking on the machinery below the deck. We see many times that due to the nature of the windlass, the caulk seal breaks allowing saltwater on the machinery. At the very least, if this happens, you should apply a product like CorrosionX or Boshield to stop corrosion. Consideration should be given to resealing all deck equipment space to ensure that there is no corrosion.
- Grease, Lube and Check Oil: Lubricate the main shaft, clutch cones, and bearings per manufacturer specs—usually every 6–12 months. Check the oil and NEVER allow the oil to run out. Often these windlasses have very slow oil leaks and can run out over time. It is mandatory to check the oil level at least annually. Running machinery without oil can lead to catastrophic failure.
- Electrical Check: Inspect terminals for corrosion and ensure battery voltage/service voltage is sufficient for proper operation. We often see corrosion on the electrical connections causing resistance and voltage drops that can severely damage the motor. Clean and re-tighten as needed.
- Annual Service: At least once a year (or more if you anchor often), remove the gypsy and inspect internal gears. Replace worn parts and seals proactively.
Windlass Pro Tip
Always use a Chain Snubber when anchoring. Do not rely only on the chain.
If your windlass is underpowered or aging, it may be time for an upgrade—especially if your anchor system has increased in size over the years. Proper sizing ensures smooth, safe operation every time. A smooth anchoring experience starts with windlass care. As with most yacht systems, a little attention goes a long way. Don’t let a neglected windlass hold you hostage—stay ahead of the game with these routine checks.
