I try not to get too excited about products I haven't seen in person. But long-time readers will remember my attempt to overhaul my (dead) Sprint 400 windlass. Replacement was the only option, it turned out, so I covered the hole in my foredeck and went cruising.

That was last August, and I'm embarrassed to say that the foredeck still has that funny piece of plastic bolted to it. Imagine my delight to discover a compact, high-quality windlass with all the features I want.

Let's see what the press release tells us"¦

Now, boaters can enjoy the water more and spend less time figuring out their marine equipment. Rated as the number one automatic rope/chain windlass in its class by an independent test report, Maxwell America's Freedom Series offers simple mounting, saving boaters time and money.

Featuring easy two piece installation, the Freedom Series allows users to retrofit without disassembly of the windlass. The topworks can be fully dismantled by utilizing the handle provided and a screwdriver. No special tools are required. 

Editor's note: This is a HUGE benefit to me. Take a look at my attempts to overhaul the old one (here and here). Boaters need to face the fact that it's a windlass, and you'll need to get inside it some day.

A unique spacer tube design allows installation through almost any deck thickness. Alternative gearbox/motor positions accommodate virtually all mounting situations.

Maxwell's revolutionary windlass automatically feeds anchor rode into and out of the anchor locker for effortless handling of the rope/chain rodes. With a sleek, captive, on-deck design, it provides smooth, snag-free operation. Featuring dual direction movement, users can easily accomplish high-speed, jam-free retrieval of rope and chain from remote control stations.

A cone type clutch/brake mechanism permits manual free fall anchoring. Unlike a dog clutch, a cone clutch provides smooth disengagement of the chainwheel.

Incredibly durable, it's constructed from marine-grade, hard-anodized alloy housing finished in beautiful metallic charcoal. Best for serving lighter displacement vessels up to about 45"², the Freedom Series from Maxwell America has a new, lower starting retail price of $1,162.50. Maxwell has recently reduced pricing across its entire line worldwide.