Ideal Windlass, 1977 version

[dartagnan]

Hello All.

I have a 1977 CHB with an ideal windlass. I can't figure out how to top the gear oil off. I've been to the Ideal site and none of my numbers match what they show so I have no idea what model I have. I have mailed them the pictures below and have yet to receive any reply. The top of the gearbox has a copper fitting (pic 2) with a small hole (vent?) where the fill plug is supposed to be and its fixed and cannot be removed) , and lower on the front of the case is a plug (pic 4) which is where you check the level. Is this level plug also where you fill it. Doesn't seem so since its to low and how would you get oil in? Attached are some pics if anyone knows what I'm looking at I would appreciate any help/advice. Also if you know the model number please advise.

Thanks, Terry

 

[mvweebles]

Looks like a 1/4" or 3/8" NPT plug fitting. I forget what type of oil but use a squirt nozzle and a short length of flexible tubing. When oil weeps out the hole, level is correct. Clean up the mess and you're done.

Good luck.

Peter

 

[dartagnan]

Thanks Peter for your prompt reply. It uses 90 wt gear oil. That has to be the way! It just didn't seem that level would be enough oil. Do you have any idea what the fitting on top of the case is? Pictures on their webpage of other models that look like mine it is the fill plug I'm assuming its some kind of vent

Thanks, Terry

 

[mvweebles]

I had my 1970 Ideal windlass apart a couple years ago which is the only reason I know (though my memory isn't the best). The worm gear on the motor is less than half bathed in gear oil but when it turns, lubricated the windlass gear so there is plenty of oil, just not a submerged bath. Very simple design constructed from bronze and very durable.

I don't recall the top fitting but a vent sounds reasonable. It would require a vent of course to equalize pressure.

Regards

Peter

 

[Bmarler]

Top fitting is definitely a breather. Some folks take the breather out and fill there till it comes out the level plug.
There’s a big gear inside the case that carries lube up top and it slings it around ensuring everything gets oiled.
No worries on the low resting level. If overfilled, oil will leak out the motor seal.