For an accurate rope/chain count the rode must run between the sensor and magnet. On a horizontal windlass this area is
limited to the top of the stern quadrant. (See Fig 9 below). To count rope/chain the sensor must be fitted within this quadrant.
Every horizontal windlass is different and it may not be possible to fit the sensor to achieve an accurate rope/chain count. Please
check with the AutoAnchor manufacturer, or supplier, to see if you can fit the AA550 to your windlass.
Sensor Position Range
Bow
Anchor Locker
Stern
Fig 9
Some windlasses are designed with a space to fit the sensor internally (eg Maxwell
HRC models). For other windlasses it may be possible to use the AutoAnchor flat
sensor and fix it inside the windlass housing (See Fig 10b) or, on the exterior of the
windlass housing behind the chainwheel. (See Fig 10a). The magnet must be aligned
with the cross on the flat sensor.
gap Between the Sensor and Magnet:
The gap between the sensor and magnet is critical for proper operation of the
AA550. See below for the gap required where the rode runs between the sensor and the magnet:
Magnet 8mm x 6mm #9052
Minimum 30mm
Maximum 44mm
Magnet 10mm x 8mm #9061
Minimum 35mm
Maximum 50mm
SeaLed WINdLaSSeS
Some rope/chain horizontal windlasses are sealed so it is not possible to fit the sensor inside the windlass housing. If there is
sufficient space between the chainwheel and the windlass housing, the sensor can be fitted externally (See Fig 10a). The only
other option is to fit the sensor using a sensor holder as for an all-chain system (see the warning below).
WaRNINg:
If you use rope/chain and the sensor is fitted for an all-chain system ie the rode does not run between the sensor
and magnet, the count on retrieval may not be accurate because the AA550 will not be able to register the change from rope to
chain. The display may read zero when there is still rode deployed.
5
If counting rope/chain, you must have a minimum of 10ft of galvanised steel chain on your rode.
This fit can also be used for windlasses with all-chain rode.
FITTINg THe aa550 TO HORIZONTaL WINdLaSSeS USINg ROPe/CHaIN ROde
Sensor Installation for Horizontal Windlasses Using Rope/Chain Rode
Fig 10a
Sensor
Sensor
Windlass
Housing
Windlass
Housing
Magnet
Magnet
Magnet Installation for Horizontal Windlasses Using all-Chain Rode
The magnet is fitted either in the base or in the edge of the chainwheel.
To Fit the Magnet
: If your chainwheel is not predrilled, drill a hole in the
underside of a spoke (see Fig 8a) or in the edge of the chainwheel (See Fig
8b). Ensure the gap between the sensor and the magnet will be correct. Insert
the magnet and cover it with a minimum of 1mm of epoxy to seal it from salt
water. Failure to do this will impair the magnet’s strength and durability.
drilling the deck:
- Refer to instructions for all-chain windlasses on PAGE 4.
Fig 10b
Fig 8a
Sensor
Sensor Holder
Fig 8b
Magnet
Sensor
Magnet
