Rope Capstan Winches

Rope Capstan Maintenance and Warranty 

Using your Winches 
Standing or kneeling behind the winch, simply wind up to three turns (maximum) of line or sheet around the drum in a clockwise direction. Maintain a light “tailing” pull onto the free end and start the capstan. As the capstan rotates, lightly pull the line hand over hand keeping up with the speed of the winch. The capstan does all the hard work for you. Stop and hold at any time. We recommend your engine is running during docking operations for additional control. Never stall the capstan and do not run it at very low speed for an extended time. Use one continuous and smooth recovery and do not repeatedly start/stop.

Where to install your Capstan. 
In a position so that the working line passes smoothly from the block or guide, around the drum and to a position where you can tail the line comfortably. Footswitches can be positioned on the deck or as a knee switch. Make sure the winch motor is in a dry position and is easily accessible for inspection and external maintenance.

How to install your Capstan
Using the template provided, cut the central hole and drill the small holes for the deck studs. Note the position of the stud holes relative to the load to give maximum strength. In fibreglass or wood mounts, seal the edges of the cut. If in doubt about strength, use a spreader plate under the deck or cabin top. Longer or shorter deck studs can be easily made up if required. Slip the winch into the prepared position with a coating of soft set silicone sealant at the mating face. Wire up making sure polarity is correct. The winch will normally only run clockwise. A quick push of the switch will check this. Each winch is load tested before leaving the factory, so if it does not go, there may be a problem with the installation. Ensure all terminals (motor, switch, breaker, battery etc) are firmly tightened. Finally protect the motor and terminal ends as described under “Maintenance”

Warranty
Our winches are covered by a three-year return to factory warranty against defective materials or workmanship, except motors and seals which are covered by a one year warranty. Warranty does not cover damage due to improper use or poor maintenance. If a fault develops during the warranty period DO NOT remove any parts or attempt a repair. Remove the winch/motor assembly in one piece from the boat and return it to your supplier or the manufacturer with evidence of purchase, a description of the installation and problem experienced.

Maintenance
Every 6 months, remove centre screw from the top of the drum and lift drum off. Lightly grease the synthetic bearings under the drum.

Smear a little grease on the O ring seal in the top outer cap, assemble and tighten firmly. Do not over-tighten

The motor is made of steel and may corrode if the paint system is damaged. Check the motor regularly and keep dry and clean. In “dry” installations, spray the motor regularly with a water repellant (CRC or WD40). In damp or “wet” installations, including situations where a lot of condensation takes place, treat the motor and terminals regularly with CRC “soft seal” or similar. Check all terminals in the system and protect as described above.