One more thing you can do, if you're going somewhere and know you'll be returning to the same spot: connect the anchor rode to a fender (make sure it can withstand the weight of the chain - use some rope if necessary) and just leave the anchor where it's sitting. My battery bank is also overdue for replacement, and the solar panels seems to be delivering very little power. And my main anchor winch is also having problems pulling up the anchor by now - despite that I've screwed up everything and applied oil/grease everywhere.