I decided to add a windlass because the chain is getting to be a bit much to haul up. I'm in the process of installing a spurling pipe, as the anchor locker doesn't allow enough fall. I knew it was going to be a challenging project, and so far my expectations have been exceeded.
It was going OK at this point, but when i tried it the first time, the chain piled up and jammed in the windlass. This was without any line yet.
I decided to build a mock-up so I could thoroughly test it. I should have started with the mock-up.
Concept:
Measurements:
Test stand:
The motor at the exit of the spurling pipe pulls the chain and rode through. I had to add a delay relay to keep pulling while the windlass comes to a stop. The more I tested it, the more it would occasionally slip or stall and then the chain jams. If i add more pressure to the idler wheel, the motor stalls. I need to get it to operate 100% reliably, or I may as well not do it at all. It's not going well at the moment, but I shall prevail.
It was going OK at this point, but when i tried it the first time, the chain piled up and jammed in the windlass. This was without any line yet.
I decided to build a mock-up so I could thoroughly test it. I should have started with the mock-up.
Concept:
Measurements:
Test stand:
The motor at the exit of the spurling pipe pulls the chain and rode through. I had to add a delay relay to keep pulling while the windlass comes to a stop. The more I tested it, the more it would occasionally slip or stall and then the chain jams. If i add more pressure to the idler wheel, the motor stalls. I need to get it to operate 100% reliably, or I may as well not do it at all. It's not going well at the moment, but I shall prevail.
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