Remote possibilities
RP Stone shows how he fitted a wireless remote control for an anchor windlass
Accepting my advancing years meant that I needed assistance to recover my anchor and chain, as my arms and shoulders were starting to complain at the effort required each time I left an anchorage.
Consequently, I fitted a windlass that came with an internal control switch, making the recovery task much easier. However, I wanted to be able to monitor the chain as it was deployed and recovered, so I looked at having a remote control that would work while I was at the bow and also at the helm as I spend a lot of time single-handed. The installation instructions showed several switching options, but all were hard-wired and would restrict my movement during operation.
On a popular internet auction site I found a simple remote relay that came with two remote controls for £6. This was fitted behind the existing switch and mounted in an airtight food container (cost £2) as the relay was not marinised, and I assumed would need protecting from the salty atmosphere on a boat.
I had some spare wiring that was used to link to the boat’s power supply (black wire above, via a spare circuit breaker) and wire the relay into the back of the existing switch (blue and white wires). I applied some sealant around the wires and fixing screws, where I had drilled holes in the container, to maintain the airtight integrity.
Since the remote controllers have been linked to the relay they have operated without any problems, and allow me to deploy and recover the anchor without fuss – all for £8.