Anchor Windlass

A powered or manual machine used to heave, veer and control an anchor rode.

A chain gypsy engages calibrated chain, while a warping drum handles rope and a combined unit may manage a rope-chain rode. Windlasses may have horizontal or vertical shafts and use electric, hydraulic or manual power with a clutch and brake.

The windlass is intended to recover and control the rode, not usually to absorb all anchoring or sea loads. A snubber, chain stopper or separate securing arrangement transfers load to structure, while alignment, fasteners, gearbox, motor, wiring, clutch, brake and foot controls require inspection.