Windlass Down Switch Not Working

[tgradyv7m]

I have a 2 year old Maxwell HRC10-10 windlass that the down anchor switch quit working. It is controlled by a wired remote at the bow. I checked voltage at the boat connection and I have 14 volts on both legs. I checked continuity between the plug on the controller and circuit board which is fine. So I am left with either the controller is toast (circuit board had some corrosion) or the windlass reverse (down) is blocked. I failed to mention the up anchor switch works. My question is there any way to test the controller of the windlass separately? The controller cost $300 CDN!

I still have the helm control that come with the unit that maybe I can jury rig to isolate the problem unless someone comes up with a solution.

[more]

Originally Posted by tgradyv7m

I have a 2 year old Maxwell HRC10-10 windlass that the down anchor switch quit working. It is controlled by a wired remote at the bow. I checked voltage at the boat connection and I have 14 volts on both legs. I checked continuity between the plug on the controller and circuit board which is fine. So I am left with either the controller is toast (circuit board had some corrosion) or the windlass reverse (down) is blocked. I failed to mention the up anchor switch works. My question is there any way to test the controller of the windlass separately? The controller cost $300 CDN!

I still have the helm control that come with the unit that maybe I can jury rig to isolate the problem unless someone comes up with a solution.

Switch wire from up to down and try.

[Cheechako]

Originally Posted by more

Switch wire from up to down and try.

Yes, and if it is the controller, can you just use a universal remote with no circuit boards? (Grainger, McMaster etc... even Amazon)
ie: your windlass has a solenoid to shift direction?

[meirriba]

Originally Posted by more

Switch wire from up to down and try.

Exactly!

[tgradyv7m]

Originally Posted by more

Switch wire from up to down and try.

Like duh! I will. Thank you.

[Sailshabby]

Had a similar issue. Turned out the switch was toast. Try disconnecting the cables and having someone step on it while you check resistance.

[jmschmidt]

Better than having than having the "up switch" inop.

[Scrimshaw4]

Follow the wires from the foot switch. They will lead to a mechanical relay box. Open the box and check the contacts. Also check the down switch for continuity when depressed. Cleaning contacts may be the solution.

[nepal]

I had the same problem and installed a switch near the relay to switch manually ’up’ & ’down ’.
About 2 years later I found out that the voltage at the relay was quiet lower than at the windlass. One of the cables was extended and got corroded.

[tgradyv7m]

Update: I cross wired the old switch and the working switch worked the down function. I bought a new one because of an upcoming trip (thank you Marine Outfitters). Maxwell will honor the warranty with a new controller probably by a replacement in 4 weeks. I have a back up now. Thanks for the responses.

[Scrimshaw4]

Given the environment the controller is in you might want to cover the connections with liquid tape to help keep moisture out. JMHO