Description
Maxwell RC 8-6 12V Windlass for 1/4" Chain | Boat Supply Store
Designed to simplify anchor deployment and retrieval, this 12V vertical windlass offers robust performance for mid-sized vessels operating in demanding marine environments. Its 600W motor provides a maximum pull of 770 lbs (350kg), enabling efficient handling of a 1/4" (6mm/7mm) short link chain and 1/2" (12mm) nylon rope rode. The patented Wave Design™ chainwheel ensures a secure grip on combined rodes, reducing slippage during operation.
Key Features
- Durable marine-grade 316 stainless steel construction for superior corrosion resistance.
- Secure Grip via patented Wave Design™ chainwheel optimizing combined rope and chain handling.
- Heavy-Duty stainless steel pressure arm for reliable rode management.
- Sealed Lubrication with a sealed oil bath and hard anodized alloy gearbox for extended component life.
- Versatile Installation featuring a simple two-piece design with a unique spacer tube for variable deck thicknesses.
- Automatic Operation providing fully automatic rope and chain hauling capabilities.
- Manual Backup includes an emergency crank handle for manual override functionality.
- Easy Rode Entry facilitated by a through-deck hawse pipe throat for seamless chain and rope feeding.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12V DC |
| Power | 600W |
| Chain Size | 1/4" (6mm/7mm) short link |
| Rope Size | 1/2" (12mm) 3-strand or 8-plait nylon |
| Maximum Pull | 770 lbs (350kg) |
| Chain Retrieval Speed | 92 ft/min |
| Rope Retrieval Speed | 79 ft/min |
| Material | Marine-grade 316 stainless steel |
| Gearbox Type | Sealed oil bath and hard anodized alloy |
Who This Is For
Boaters requiring a reliable and durable anchor management system for vessels up to approximately 40 feet, particularly those utilizing a mixed rope and chain rode or an all-chain setup. This unit is ideal for individuals seeking straightforward installation and dependable performance in coastal or offshore conditions.
How It Compares
| Feature | Maxwell RC 8-6 12V Windlass for 1/4" Chain | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Chain Size | 1/4" (6mm / 7mm) | 1/4" (6mm G4/G3), 1/4" |
| Rope Size | 1/2" (12mm) | 1/2" (12mm 3-strand), 1/2" |
| Max Pull | 770 lbs (350kg) | — |
| Power | 600 Watts | 700W, 800W |
| Chainwheel Technology | Wave Design™ | Standard gypsy, Standard gypsy |
| Installation Design | Simple two-piece installation | Standard vertical installation, Standard vertical installation |
| Material | Marine-Grade 316 Stainless Steel | Anodized aluminum and stainless steel, Chrome plated bronze and stainless steel |
Common Concerns Answered
Is the maximum pull capacity sufficient for larger vessels or challenging anchoring conditions?
The Maxwell RC 8-6 offers a maximum pull of 770 lbs (350kg), which is suitable for many mid-sized vessels; however, for larger boats or consistently heavy anchoring scenarios, users may want to consider models with higher pull capacities. Consult your vessel's displacement and typical anchoring requirements.
Have there been any issues reported with the electrical components?
A small percentage of users have noted occasional quality concerns with the included breaker panel or switch. It is advisable to inspect these components upon receipt and consider upgrading to marine-grade equivalents if necessary for enhanced reliability.
How does the Wave Design™ chainwheel handle the splice between rope and chain?
The patented Wave Design™ chainwheel is engineered to provide a superior grip on both chain and rope, facilitating smoother transitions at the splice point and reducing the likelihood of slippage during hauling or paying out the rode.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum chain size this windlass can handle?
The Maxwell RC 8-6 is designed to handle 1/4" (6mm/7mm) short link anchor chain.
What is the maximum rope size this windlass can handle?
This windlass is rated for 1/2" (12mm) 3-strand or 8-plait nylon rope.
What is the maximum pull capacity of the Maxwell RC 8-6?
The maximum pull capacity of this windlass is 770 lbs (350kg).
Can this windlass be used with all-chain rodes?
Yes, the Maxwell RC 8-6 can be used with all-chain rodes provided the chain is 1/4" (6mm/7mm) short link and compatible with the chainwheel.
What is the power requirement for this windlass?
The Maxwell RC 8-6 operates on a 12V DC electrical system and has a power rating of 600 Watts.
