Powerful, versatile, and built to perform in demanding marine environments, the Maxwell RC8-8 Vertical 12V Windlass delivers reliable anchor handling with advanced engineering. Designed for 5/16" chain and 5/8" line, this fully automatic rope/chain windlass combines strength, precision, and ease of installation to keep your vessel secure with confidence.

Key features

• Wave Design rope/chain gypsy (chainwheel) that accommodates a wide range of chain pitch differences within the specified size, ensuring smooth operation with 8 mm (5/16") chain and compatible rope configurations.
• Two-piece installation for quick retrofitting—no windlass disassembly required—saving time and money during installation or upgrades.
• Spacer tube design and multiple mounting positions with a self-aligning gearbox to adapt to virtually any deck thickness and installation scenario.
• Heavy-duty stainless steel (AISI 316) pressure arm and preloaded, large-diameter stainless components deliver maximum grip on the rope/chain splice for superior control.
• Works with all-chain rodes and features a large-through-deck hawse pipe throat for effortless entry of the rode into and out of the anchor locker.
• Full topworks disassembly with just the included handle and an Allen key for maintenance and serviceability.
• Manual override and Free Fall capability via the emergency crank/clutch handle for reliable control in any situation.
• Sealed oil bath and marine-grade hard-anodised alloy gearbox provide durable protection and smooth power transfer through a precision worm and worm wheel.
• Includes top works, motor/gearbox, and a dual-direction solenoid; switches and circuit breakers are available separately for a fully automatic dual-direction control package.
• Available in configurations with extra deck clearance; contact your dealer for options tailored to your boat’s layout.
• Important safety note: use with a chain stopper or alternative snubbing device to take load off the windlass while laying at anchor and to secure the anchor in the fully raised position when underway.

Performance and specifications

• Voltage: 12V DC
• Motor power: 1000 W
• Maximum pull/lift: 600 kg
• Rope/chain compatibility: suitable for 8 mm (5/16") chain with a rope option such as 14–16 mm (5/8") rope variants; designed for a broad range of rope/chain configurations within the RC8 family
• Orientation: Vertical windlass
• Weight: approximately 8 kg

What’s in the box

• RC8-8 12V windlass
• Breaker panel
• Reversing solenoid
• Up/Down panel switch
• Clutch release handle