WEsail · video

What this video covers

Warren and Erica, living aboard their 44-foot catamaran in American Samoa, address two recurring mechanical issues: a failing windlass and a chain-locker design that causes the anchor chain to pyramid and bind.0:38 The windlass began losing power, a symptom they previously identified as worn motor brushes.8:20 Unable to source exact replacements locally, Warren modifies the existing brush housing by cutting a groove into the casing, allowing the springs to push the brushes further and utilize more of the graphite material.14:53

To solve the chain-flaking problem, Warren constructs a custom shield using heat-moldable Kydex.18:59 This shield prevents the chain from wrapping around the windlass shaft during retrieval, a recurring issue that previously required manual intervention in the anchor locker.19:47 After testing the modifications, the windlass operates at full speed and the chain flakes correctly.20:00 The crew concludes their repairs by exploring the island, noting the availability of local haul-out services and public transportation in American Samoa.13:00 Modifying brush housings to extend spring travel can temporarily restore windlass function when exact replacement parts are unavailable.

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