Which oil to use for an electric windlass?
The windlass is an essential part of the mooring line on a boat. This equipment makes it easy to raise or lower an anchor. There are two main categories of windlass: manual windlasses and electric windlasses. Manual windlasses are hand operated and are ideal for small boats. Indeed, they are useful for unhooking a somewhat hard anchor. Regarding the electric windlasses, they are equipped with a motor. There are two electric windlass configurations: the vertical windlass or the horizontal axis windlass. Their operation is identical. In addition, whatever the brand of electric windlass (Lewmar, Lofrans, Quick, Plastimo or Italwinch windlass), they are all used the same way. This is why this guide and all our recommendations apply to all types of electric windlasses. Then, which oil to use for an electric windlass?
How to add oil to the motor of your electric windlass?
You should know that all types of electric windlasses need to be drained. The windlass motor has a sump which is filled with special oil. It is this oil that must be changed. It will take you between 20 and 30 minutes to drain the windlass.
First of all, check the windlass oil level. The process is the same as on a car. Take a look at the front of your boat's windlass. If the oil level is lower than the diameter of the inspection glass, you must top up the oil. Remove the filler cap and place a funnel. Then complete very slowly.
On the other hand, if you notice that the oil is too worn or too old, it will need to be replaced. Changing the oil is not complicated, you just need to have a oil pump and empty the sump. Then pour in new oil up to the line indicating that the tank is full.
NB: Some crankcases allow the device to be reversed to eject the oil. The emptying of the windlass is thus facilitated.
Which oil to use for an electric windlass?
Be very careful with the oil you use in your electric windlass motor. An unsuitable oil can break down your electric windlass. And no one wants to hand raise an anchor when the electric windlass isn't working on a sailboat or pleasure boat!
So, which oil to use for an electric windlass?
It is extremely important to use only SAE 80W-90 oil for your electric windlass.
How to clean and maintain the motor of your electric windlass?
Now that you know which oil to use for an electric windlass, you need to know the recommended maintenance cycles.
Regarding the oil change, at least once every two years, you must remove the windlass from its base in order to check the level of this oil. It is recommended to change it at this time.
NB: the oil can remain in the crankcase for more than two years but windlass builders recommend changing it every two years.
It is advisable to perform maintenance on the motor of your electric windlass when disarming. To learn more about the maintenance of your windlass, you can read our article " How to lubricate a boat windlass? " and our article 'how to clean a windlass on a boat?'.
