Windlass Wiring Fault

[Foswick]

Please double-check my thinking on this:

My windlass uses this solenoid which seems to be wired according to this diagram:

The cockpit switch works normally but neither foot switch works. When we bought the boat (a year ago) the foot switches worked. My first thought was, "Great. Almost certainly it is that 3A fuse. I'll just replace that and, Bob's your uncle."

But, if the boat is wired per this diagram and that fuse was blown, then the cockpit switch should not work.

I verified both foot switches work - they provide continuity when closed.

These are both wired to a post that (per the solenoid's diagram) should go to BAT+. I checked that post and, sure enough - no power.

So, the only thing I can conclude here, is that the foot switches are wired to the battery on a different circuit than the cockpit switch - unlike the above diagram.

Right?

I can't see any other explanation.

So, why don't I just trace the wires out and verify? Well, that is easier said than done. Let's just say there was some creative wiring by a previous owner. I will, of course, sort this out and clean up the wiring. But, in the meantime, I would like to get those foot switches working.

 

[dLj]

Can you see the junction box or connection point where the foot switch wires connect to that 3A fuse? Could be a connection problem there. It could also be wired differently as you suggest.

dj

 

[LLoyd B]

Confirm your wire diagram for rocker switch is correct

 

[JoeWhite]

Since the foot switches are connected in parallel to cockpit switch, there is nothing wrong before the point where they are connected to each other. The only point where there could be a bad connection problem is where both positives are connected to each other where it goes to the rocker switch and foot switch.
It is not clear where you made continuity test on foot switch. Was it on the switches themselves?

 

[Foswick]

We made good time to our first destination, so I took the opportunity to crack into this ... after lunch ... and a nap.

What I discovered was a secret compartment previously unknown to me, with a couple of distribution panels. And, they were even labeled!

Sure enough, the fore and aft switches were on separate circuits and the fuse to the foot switches was blown. Replaced the fuse and we're good.

 

[kappykaplan]

We made good time to our first destination, so I took the opportunity to crack into this ... after lunch ... and a nap.

What I discovered was a secret compartment previously unknown to me, with a couple of distribution panels. And, they were even labeled!

Sure enough, the fore and aft switches were on separate circuits and the fuse to the foot switches was blown. Replaced the fuse and we're good.

Outstanding!

 

[jssailem]

trace the wires out and verify

McMaster-Carr also known as fox&hounds hardware.

Puts a tone on one wire and allows you to find the wire after it disappears in the bow and shows up at the stern. If you can hear the sound it is connected.

I concur with your analysis of the wire diagram. The splices to the wires from the footswitches and the rocker switch may have failed. The best practice is to use a wire block. Many owners think trailer tap/splice connections. These often fail.