Muir Easy Weigh Series User manual

T H E W O R L D P O W E R I N A N C H O R I N G S Y S T E M S
21 July 2011 www.muir.com.au 1
VM/VMC 500/650
VR/VRC 1000/1200
VERTICAL WINDLASS

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21 July 2011 www.muir.com.au 2
Contents
Intro uction page 3
Important Information
Safe Operation
Installation page 4
Installation Instructions
Rope Chain Management System Installation Page
Depth of the Chain Locker Page 6
Handy Hints Page 7
Electrical information page 7
Circuit Breaker
Deck Switches
Isolating Switch
Batteries
Direction of Rotation
Solenoid Installation
Wiring Layout
Operation an Servicing page 9
Operating Instructions
Anchoring
Retrieving chain
Rope hauling on the capstan
Electric/Hydraulic Operation
Auto Anchor Launching
Servicing Instructions page 9
Maintenance and Assembly Instructions page 10
Rope Chain Management System Adjustment page 11
Manual Override System (MORS) page 12
Troubleshooting Page 13
Warranty an Warranty Registration Car Page 14
Drawings
Deck Templates
Wiring diagram for 12/24V DC two pole motor
Wiring diagram for 12/24V DC three pole motor
Exploded views for EasyWeigh VM500 an VMC500
Exploded views for EasyWeigh VM650 an VMC650
Exploded views for EasyWeigh VR1000 an VRC1200

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INTRODUCTION
Thankyou for purchasing a Muir Windlass. Muir go to great lengths to develop anchoring systems that meet all
your performance and safety requirements and are designed with a style and finish that enhances the
aesthetics of your vessel. With Muir’s commitment to quality and use of superior materials and processes we
know you will be pleased with your investment. Rest assured that through the correct installation, operation
and maintenance your new Muir Windlass will give you years of reliable performance.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
To avoid damage to the gear drive, windlass or vessel when bringing the anchor up hard, it is a preferred
practice to mark the chain at approximately -meter intervals from the anchor, to alert the operator to the
anchor position. Alternatively an Auto Anchor can be used.
Under no circumstances should the windlass be operated if it is stalled or overloaded.
If anchor retrieval is impaired by high wind, heavy seas or the anchor is snagged, ease the load by motoring
slowly forward into the wind with a chain stopping device in place. The rope or chain should be cleated off
and the anchor driven out by the engine, otherwise the gearbox or shaft can be damaged.
SAFE OPERATION
• Ensure that hands, feet, hair and clothing are kept clear of the windlass and other loose gear when in
operation.
• Ensure no one is swimming nearby as anchor is lowered or retrieved.
• Keep hands well clear of capstan, gypsy, chain and line.
• The windlass should never be used for lifting people aloft.
• Do not use a windlass as a bollard for mooring, towing or being towed.
• Always ensure that the windlass clutch is tightened with the clutch handle. When the windlass is not in
use a Chain Lock, Devil’s Claw or Snubber Line should be fitted to retain the anchor. The use of these
accessories will prevent excessive loads on the geardrive and accidental release of the anchor when
travelling.

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INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Figure (i)
Locate the windlass centrally fore and aft. Check that the chain leads
unhindered to the anchor roller. The chain runs onto the starboard side of
the gypsy, wraps around 180° and falls below deck through the chain
pipe. Ensure there is sufficient room around the windlass to allow full
rotation of the manual/clutch handle (if supplied).
Figure (ii)
The centre height of the gypsy must be in the same plane as the chain
lead from the bow roller. If the deck is angled (fore & aft) or curved (port
to starboard) a suitably shaped mounting block will be required to spread
the load evenly over the deck surface and mount the windlass base on a
level and even footing.
Figure (iii)
Place the shaped mounting block (if required) onto the deck. Using the
layout template supplied, mark the mounting centres and drill the holes,
(Refer template).
Figure (iv)
The nylon insulation gasket supplied with your windlass must be fitted
between the deck (or mounting block if required) and the windlass base.
Apply an appropriate sealant to the nylon gasket (and mounting block if
required).
The nylon insulation gasket also acts to insulate between dis-similarity of
metals and helps avoid corrosion.
For aluminium or steel hull vessels, it is important to insulate the mounting
bolts, nuts and washers with a non-conductive gasket to avoid corrosion.
Apply Loctite 222 or equivalent to the threaded studs under the deck and
carefully tighten the nuts & washers. Remove excess sealer.
Where the deck construction is light or of foam sandwich construction, a
plywood stiffener of at least 16mm ( /8") thickness should be fitted to the
underside of the deck to spread the load and to prevent the bolts from
pulling through the deck. Large diameter washers on the underside of the
stiffener assists to spread the load.
Figure (v)
1. Mount the windlass from above as shown.
2. From below, apply Loctite 222 or equivalent and place washers and
nut on each stud and tighten.
Figure (vi)
3. Locate adaptor and align holes.
4. Apply Loctite 222 or equivalent and fasten using cap screws provided.
Figure (vii)
. Grease shaft, key, and gearbox hub, slide geardrive onto shaft ensuring
key is aligned. Rotate gearbox to prefered mounting position and secure
with bolts provided.
6. Locate gearbox, apply Loctite 222 or equivalent and bolt through
adaptor.
7. Apply Loctite 222 or equivalent and place washers and bolt in the end
of the shaft and tighten.
NOTE: On assembly, grease all moving parts with an appropriate marine grade grease. The motor / gear
drive assembly should be protected with anti-corrosion film or grease tape.
fig i
fig ii
fig iii fig iv
fig v
fig vi
fig vii

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21 July 2011 www.muir.com.au
ROPE CHAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM INSTALLATION
If you require the use of the Rope Chain Management System (RCMS), follow these instructions to fit and adjust
the finger and spring. You will require allen keys and a large flat tip screw driver to fit and adjust the RCMS, which
is easy to do and will only take approximately minutes to complete.
Firstly, ensure that power to the windlass is isolated so it can not accidentally operate whilst you are working on it
and that it is safe to work on or near it. It is also recommended to store all removed parts in a secure place, so
that they do not roll off the deck during this operation.
Refer to the Windlass manual Exploded View to help identify parts.
1. Remove the chain cover, by removing the thumb screw and swivel the chain cover around so it is out of the
way.
2. Using the correct size of allen key, loosen the grub screw and remove the finger pin from the base.
3. Fit the spring into the hole and slot in the finger, with spring ends pointing upwards.
4. Fit the finger and spring to the base, by lining up the finger and spring hole over the finger pin hole in the
base, and reinstall the finger pin. The hole in the finger pin must fit over the end of the spring that is sticking
up.
. To tension the spring, use the flat tip screw driver to turn the Finger Pin anti-clockwise to line up the slot in the
pin with the slot in the finger, then whilst holding against the spring tension, tighten the grub screw to lock the
Finger Pin in place. This applies the correct tension to the finger.
6. Re-fit the chain cover and tighten the thumb or socket head cap screw as appropriate.
Once installed and adjusted, proper maintenance and operation will provide many years of service.

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DEPTH OF THE CHAIN LOCKER
Measuring the vertical distance (minimum fall) underside of the deck and the top of the completely stored
and heaped anchor rode in the locker will assist in determining the installation to suit your vessel. Refer to the
fall depth diagrams and the options detailed below. It is also recommended that the chain be directed to
the centre of the chain locker.
Vertical Win lass:
The running gear, gypsy and capstan are positioned
above the deck with the motor and gear drive below.
Vertical windlasses operate at best with greater anchor
rode fall than the horizontal windlass and a minimum fall
of 300mm from top of stacked anchor rode is
recommended. This is particularly important if using
nylon line, which does not fold and stack as well as
chain. Vertical windlasses minimise deck intrusion and
the modern curved lines of the Muir windlass enhance
the look of any vessel. A vertical windlass provides the
advantage of a 180-degree wrap of the anchor rode
around the gypsy.
Horizontal Win lass:
Fully enclosed, above deck, this style is usually preferred
where locker space is limited or additional fall is
required. The motor and gear drive is fully enclosed in
the housing with nothing protruding below deck. The
horizontal windlass operates with optimum anchor rode
fall of at least 300mm from the top of the stacked
anchor rode, and due to the horizontal orientation of
the gypsy higher above the deck there is additional fall
provided. These units are ideally suited for vessels with
less locker space.
Vertical Win lass Mo el
Minimum Fall
(Dist. Top of Pile)
VM/C 00 / 6 0 300 mm
VR/C 1000 /1200 4 0 mm
MINIMUM FALL
MINIMUM FALL

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HANDY HINTS
It is a common error to locate the windlass too far forward, or too close to the bulk head, where there is
insufficient room for chain and anchor stowage. The chain fall should be positioned in the centre of the
chain locker to maximise the fall of the chain. If the chain falls alongside a bulkhead or onto the stem it will
typically pyramid and jam.
If the windlass requires positioning such that chain falls into an undesirable position, a metal tube can be
fitted under the hawser to redirect the chain to a preferred position. This pipe should be at least 2 times the
diameter of the chain. It should also be as vertical as possible. Position the windlass in the best location with
the chain hawser facing forward.
Ensure sufficient room to run electric cables to the windlass. Follow the installation instructions, including
underdeck stiffening, deck camber, alignment, mounting blocks and sealing procedures. The gearbox and
motor can be located in one of 8 positions.
ELECTRICAL
See Wiring Diagrams for wiring instructions.
Circuit breaker (must be fitte to ensure warranty)
If the windlass is overloaded or stalled the circuit breaker will automatically cut power to the windlass and
protect the wiring and motor. The circuit breaker should not be used as an isolating switch.
Deck Switches are best located out to either port or starboard or directly behind the windlass in a position
where it can be easily reached with your foot or knee, preferably where you can view the anchor and chain
coming aboard.
Isolating Switch should be fitted in an accessible position for safety, ideally close to the battery or switches.
The isolating switch is not a circuit breaker.
Batteries are best located as close to the windlass as possible. Larger cables will reduce the voltage
drop to the motor and the heat generated when running the windlass. Small diameter cables drop
voltage considerably. Use the following table as a guide to your required wire size:
Distance from battery to motor (m) Cable Size
(mm
2
) AWG
Cable Diameter
(mm)
7 (23’) 2 3 8 ( /16”)
9 – 17 (30’ – ’) 0 1/0 10 (3/8”)
Rotation : Windlasses may be wired for single or dual direction, using single or dual deck switches for raising
or lowering. Alternatively a remote control solenoid package with Toggle Switch, Hand Pendant or Auto
Anchors are available.
WINCH MODEL MOTOR TYPE DRAWING NO.
VR/C 1000/1200 2 POLE WIRE008 -A
VR/C 1
0
0
0/1200
3 POLE
WIRE0086
WARNING: Keep solenoi away from salt an fresh water
Solenoi Installation
We recommend that the solenoid is installed in an
upright position, where it has no exposure to sea
water and in close proximity to the electric motor
of the windlass.
Do not place the solenoid in the chain locker.
For wiring information, please refer to the
appropriate wiring diagram listed in the table
below.
This way up
2/4 POLE
S
OLENOID

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WIRING LAYOUT
NOT TO BE USED AS WIRING DIAGRAMS
4
6
1.
2.
3.
4.
.
6.
BATTERY
CIRCUIT BREAKER
SOLENOID/CONTROL BOX
DECK SWITCHES
AUTO ANCHOR
AUTO ANCHOR SENSOR
AUTO ANCHOR LAYOUT
1
2
4
BATTERY
CIRCUIT BREAKER
SOLENOID/CONTROL BOX
REMOTE SWITCH
1.
2.
3.
4.
REMOTE SWITCH LAYOUT
REMOTE / DECK SWITCH LAYOUT
3
2
31
4
2
1.
2.
3.
4.
.
BATTERY
CIRCUIT BREAKER
SOLENOID/CONTROL BOX
DECK SWITCHES
REMOTE SWITCH
1
3

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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Manually Releasing chain: To release the anchor rode, place the handle into the clutch drive bi-square as
shown in the diagram at the bottom of the page and turn anti-clockwise to release the clutch brake. Let the
anchor fall and control the run of the chain by tightening handle clockwise using the clutch mechanism as
a brake.
Anchoring: When laying at anchor, use a chain stopper, nylon/chain bridle or snubber line to prevent
snatching and direct loading on the windlass main shaft. Never use the windlass as a mooring bollard.
Retrieving Chain: Before operating the windlass tighten the clutch with the handle in a clockwise direction,
then remove the handle. If anchor retrieval is impaired by high wind, heavy seas or the anchor is buried hard,
ease the load by motoring slowly forward into the wind with a chain stopping device in place. This way, the
anchor is driven out by the engine, otherwise the gearbox or shaft can be damaged.
Rope hauling on the Capstan (VRC mo els only): The capstan can be operated independently of the gypsy.
Secure the anchor rode (via chain lock, Gypsy lock or Snubber) then release the clutch. The capstan can
then be operated using the manual handle or by operating the windlass motor.
Electric / Hy raulic operation: Releasing and retrieving the anchor rode is identical when operating an
electric or hydraulic windlass. Always keep well clear of the windlass when releasing or retrieving chain and
anchor. Keep fingers, hair and clothing well clear when the windlass is in operation.
Auto Anchor Launching: If the anchor roller can be positioned so that the anchor falls as soon as the windlass
is reversed, the whole operation can then be carried out remotely. Remote switching controls are self
centering and stop the windlass when the switch is released. Mark the anchor end of the chain at 2 and
metre (6. ’ & 16. ’) intervals to enable the operator to judge when the anchor is almost up. For the last few
metres of chain retrieval, decrease retrieval speed by letting go of the switch, rather than waiting for the
anchor to fly up over the roller and bang tight, as this will put excessive load onto the bow roller, windlass
and foredeck.
SERVICING
Rinsing all deck gear with fresh water after every excursion ensures that salt deposits and corrosion are kept
to a minimum. We recommend the windlasses of Pleasure Vessels are stripped yearly and all moving parts
cleaned and greased with an appropriate marine grade grease. Servicing should be carried out more
frequently with increased usage (e.g. in the case of Work and Charter Vessels). Do not use soap base
grease.
The geardrive is filled and sealed at factory with long life synthetic oil that does not require replacement for
the life of the geardrive.
Gradually loosen
to release the line
manually.
Tighten to handle to slow
the rate of the outgoing
line. Fully tighten prior to
retrieving the anchor
under power.

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MAINTENANCE AND ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
PROCEDURE:
Tools Required: Clutch handle, allen keys, small and large flat bladed screwdrivers & marine grade grease.
VR MODELS ONLY (DIAGRAM 1 LHS)
1. Remove clutch nut with handle supplied
2. Slide the ‘D’ washer off the shaft.
VRC MODELS ONLY (DIAGRAM 1 RHS)
1. Remove clutch nut with handle supplied
2. Slide the capstan off the shaft taking care not to lose the shaft key
VR AND VRC MODELS
3. Undo the thumb screw and socket head screw with an allen key to remove the chain cover.
4. Undo the stripper screws with a flat bladed screwdriver and remove the stripper. The securing screw for
the peeler should now be removed with a flat bladed screwdriver, followed by the peeler.
. The gypsy can now be removed from the main shaft.
NOTE: We recommen the use of a marine gra e grease.
• Before re-assembly, grease the exposed main shaft/cone & gypsy bore.
• The Motor / geardrive assembly should be protected with anti-corrosion film or grease tape.
DIA
GRAM 1
DIAGRAM 2
DIAGRAM 3
DIAGRAM 4
CLUTCH NUT
CAPSTAN
D WASHER
CHAIN
COVER
STRIPPER
PEELER
GYPSY
3
4
4
KEY

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ROPE CHAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (RCMS) ADJUSTMENT
Firm tension of the finger is required to reduce rope (nylon line) slipping through the gypsy. To adjust this
tension (if line slippage is occurring) refer to the diagrams and procedure below.
PROCEDURE:
Tools Required: Allen keys and a large flat bladed
screwdriver.
1. Undo the thumb screw and open the chain cover by
rotating it.
2. Loosen the grub screw on the side of base with an
allen key for finger adjustment.
3. Turn screwdriver anti-clockwise to tension the spring.
While maintain this tension, re-tighten the grub screw.
4. Reattach the chain cover to finish the adjustment.
Line Care
Using the wrong type of line may cause the line to jam causing excessive line wear. Muir Windlasses are
designed to run on 3-strand nylon line (supplied by Muir) which has been specially treated to prevent it from
hardening. It is recommended to soak your rope in fresh water containing fabric softener every 3 months.
In case of a rope jam, slacken off the windlass clutch to free the jammed line. When retrieving the anchor
rode do not continue to run the windlass if the anchor or chain is jammed, as line slippage in the gypsy will
cause damage to the line.
Rope/Chain Splice
1. To stop rope unravelling, seize rope 400mm (16") from end
with whipping twine. Unlay strands.
2. After placing 20mm (3/4") of heat shrink sleeve tubing
through the last link of chain, pass one strand of rope through
sleeve and chain from one side and the other two strands of
rope from the opposite side, (see illustration).
3. While pulling all three strands tight, shrink the sleeve tightly
onto the rope using a hairdryer / fan heater or by immersing
in boiling water.
4. Remove seizing and complete back splice in normal manner
for two full tucks. With a hot knife pare down the three
strands by oen third and insert two further tucks. Pare down
by another third and finish with two tucks. Cut any remaining
tails.

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Manual Overri e System (MORS):
(This is optional on the VR/VRC 1000-1200.)
This allows the operator to manually recover the anchor and anchor
rode without the use of the electrics. For manual operation the ratchet
drive pawl should be engaged which stops the gypsy from running
back wards. Tighten the clutch nut to engage the gypsy by rotating it
clockwise (anti clockwise if left hand winch), then place the handle
into the offset clutch drive Bi-square. When turning in an anti-clockwise
(clockwise if left hand winch) direction the MOR pawls will engage and
drive the gypsy retrieving the chain, as the handle is moved clockwise
(anti clockwise if left hand winch) the weight will be taken by the
gearbox and ratchet drive pawls.
Assembly
To engage the pawls (refer to iagram):
1. Remove the clutch nut (and the D washer for VR models) with handle supplied
2. Remove the capstan assembly (if fitted) and key on the shaft before remove the whole gypsy
3. Loosen off the nylon peeler arm (see RCMS adjustment)
4. Remove the chain cover
. Remove the gypsy together with peeler stripper assembly
6. Remove the shoulder bolt
7. Remove the ratchet cone and washer
8. Remove the pawls and replace them into the adjacent slots taking care not to loose the pawl springs
9. To reassemble the winch, repeat steps 1 – 8 in reverse order
Note: The ratchet pawl assembly is isengage when assemble at Muir engineering Pty Lt .

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Troubleshooting
ELECTRICAL
1. Check the battery circuit breaker and ensure that the isolating switch is on.
2. Check battery is charged up to 12 or 24 volts (as relevant to the vessel).
3. Check that the foot switch plunger is contacting.
4. Check that the remote control solenoid is contacting. If this is clicking the problem may be low voltage,
a faulty solenoid or a wire not properly connected.
. Check wiring between controls, solenoid and motor are intact.
6. If the motor will not turn after checking the above points, check that the motor bushes are not worn or
sticking.
MECHANICAL
If the windlass running gear will not turn or operate check the following:
1. Check that the clutch above the chain gypsy is tightened to the chain gypsy drive using the handle
supplied (see operating instructions).
2. If the line slips check the tension on the finger and increase spring tension (refer to section on RCMS
adjustment).
3. Check the drive key between the gearbox output and the main shaft.
4. Check the drive key between the gearbox and motor input.
HYDRAULIC MOTOR
Refer any problems with your hydraulic motor to a Muir service agent or Muir Engineering.
WATER PROTECTION DIAGRAM
NOTE:
It is important to thoroughly lubricate all
mating surfaces with a grease suitable for
marine applications.
Corrosion protection should be applied to
the external surfaces of the motor,
gearbox and adaptor and also in any
areas in which water may lie.
Recommended products for anti corrosion
protection are Techtyl under body anti
corrosion film and Denso grease tape.
If it is necessary to install the motor
below the chain access hole then a
chain pipe extension is required.
Wires and motor
clamp to bottom
where possible
Chain Pipe Extension