GM windlass freefall vs power down.

[oceanjake]

I have read that the GM windlass is not capable of powering down without damage, yet mine is installed with power down on the bridge and on the foot switch as well. Why would it be available with reversing solenoids if it is not capable of this without damage? Is there a retrofit available that allows power down?

 

[SKYCHENEY]

A thrust bushing could have been installed to protect the worm gear from cutting into the case, but it may not be there. GM added the down solenoids and switches on many of these without the bushing.

 

[34Hatt]

When I had to replace my windlass I got a power down instead of the free fall because if your running lots of chain, it just comes ripping out and then you need to stop it and that damaged my old windlass. Also power down I have better control of it and the button doesn't take to much effort. So happy I didn't listen to all the salespeople that said oh no you want a free fall.

 

[Pascal]

I spoke to one of the engineers at GM when I brought mine for rebuilt and indeed he confirmed that it is not designed for power down. He put in a washer to protect the case and the worm gear and said that while it would be better to release the clutch and free fall, it will be fine with the washer

 

[Westfield 11]

When they did the mod on mine, I was told that the only reason that power down wasn’t recommended for full time use was that there was no way to add lubricant to the bushing without disassembly. It was suggested that the windlass be taken apart every few years to re-grease the bushing. Even so I was told off the record that it would be fine for many years of power up and down usage.