Maxwells
I've got Maxwells on my boat, too. I think the races should fit snugly, but not "too" tight. I suggest you start by ensuring the winch innards are clean. Even a small amount of dirt or grit between the drum and race could cause the tightness you mention. I clean the innards of mine with mineral spirits and a tooth brush, and use white lithium on the gears, races, and inside the drum. I also spray Boeshield T-9 down between the races and spindle mid-season now and then when I'm not doing a complete lube of the winches. Seems to work.
