Open anchor locker hatch and arrange the chain as it is retrieved to prevent it stacking up under the winch.
Motor very slowly forward, release the bridle and operate the foot switch to retrieve the anchor. Don’t run over the chain and make sure the chain comes up vertically. Keep the skipper informed so the vessel moves ahead only as fast as the chain is retrieved.
The windlass is designed to lift the weight of the chain and anchor only. Do not overload it by pulling the boat forward.
If when lifting the anchor it stops or jams – look underneath the front locker where winch is located to see if the chain has piled up. If so, push out of the way of the bottom of the winch.
