VWC 3500 Capstan All-Chain Vertical Windlass - with Integral Chainpipe

The VWC Series of windlasses is designed for automatic (hands-free) handling of chain-only anchor rodes. They have an integral chainpipe and chain stripper built into the windlass body to facilitate jam-free operation, and automatic delivery of the chain to and from the chain locker.
VWC windlasses are available in two formats — a low profile, chainwheel-only version, and one with an added independent capstan for the retrieval of a secondary mostly rope rode, or to assist with docking procedures.
This entries features the chainwheel with capstan version of the VWC. The vertical capstan on VWC windlasses is ideal for multi-use rope hauling as, unlike horizontal capstans, it can handle lines leading from any direction.

Larger VWC series windlasses are often installed in pairs, giving an emergency backup in the event of mechanical or electrical failure. In this case one of the windlasses will normally be retrieving the anchor running clockwise and the other anti-clockwise (ACW). Fisheries offers the VWC 3500 windlasses in both versions for such pairings. Clockwise and anti-clockwise rotation are defined as viewed from above the windlass.
Other available options include a bandbrake for controlling chain speed when lowering the anchor manually, an hydraulic motor, and extra clearance for thick decks. Please inquire at 800-426-6930 for details.

Note — Typical boat lengths listed include both light and heavy displacement vessels. If your vessel's length is toward the top end of the range given for a particular windlass, but has a relatively heavy displacement for its length, choose the next larger size windlass.
Analogously, If your vessel's length is toward the top end of the range provided for a particular windlass, but has a very light displacement for its length, you can select that windlass.
Use common sense and good judgment, as you never know when your windlass will be pressed to perform at the limits of its capabilities - such as raising the anchor in storm conditions.

• The VWC 3500 windlass is designed to handle 5/16" to 1/2" chain, depending on the chainwheel selected - see specifications
• Cone-type brake/clutch mechanism permits controlled manual "free fall" anchoring
• Clutch disengagement of the chainwheel enables independent rope hauling on the capstan
• Chainwheel locking pawl
• Simple through deck installation by alignment of gearbox to the topworks utilizing marine-grade stainless steel bolts
• Anodized aluminum gearbox and spacer tube
• Decoding the part numbers — model and size, power source, chainwheel number
• As with all windlasses, use in conjunction with a chain stopper, snubber or mooring cleat to take the load when lying at anchor
• CE marked
• 3-year limited warranty

What's in the box (U.S. models) — windlass and chainwheel, panel mounted up/down helm switch, dual direction solenoid kit, panel mounted on/off circuit breaker, two (2) deck mounted black covered low amperage foot switches, and clutch release/emergency manual retrieval handle.
Recommended options include: chain stopper (or chain snubber); see Accessories, below.
Additional options include: wired or wireless rode counters, windlass control and rode counter combo, wired or wireless handheld remote control; see Related Products.

Note that the chainwheels on VWC windlasses are for chain-only rodes, and do not have any provision for handling rope.

Is one of these windlasses a good choice for your boat? You can use the recommended typical boat lengths provided or, for a more rigorous determination, take the total weight of your ground tackle (anchor + rode - presumably correctly sized for your particular vessel) and multiply by 3. The maximum pull capability of the windlass should be at least as large as the resulting number.