Lewmar Ocean Self Tailing Winch

Lewmar Ocean Self Tailing Winch

Lewmar Ocean Self Tailing Winch is a renowned, durable marine winch known for its classic styling, robust construction using high-quality materials like bronze and stainless steel, and ease of maintenance. It is widely used by both racing and cruising sailors for reliable sail trimming and rigging.

Lewmar Ocean Self Tailing Winch Key Features

• Self-Tailing Mechanism: The "ST" designation indicates a self-tailing model, which automatically grips the rope, allowing one person to operate the winch with both hands using a winch handle. This feature incorporates a Wavespring jaw with self-adjusting springs to handle a wide range of modern and traditional rope diameters (e.g., 6-18mm depending on the winch size) with a smooth, snag-free operation.

• Durable Construction: The winches are built for longevity in harsh marine environments.

• A massive, one-piece bronze centre stem provides exceptional strength.

• Stainless steel main shafts and gear spindles resist corrosion.

• High-tensile bronze gear trains are precision, machine-cut for smooth power transmission.

• The rigid, one-piece nylon cage features snap-in stainless steel bearings and an integral grease pocket for permanent lubrication, ensuring the winch will not seize under load.

• Ease of Maintenance: A key feature is the ability to service the winch without the need for tools; the top cap can be unscrewed to access the internal components for cleaning and maintenance.

• Versatility: The winches are available in both single-speed and two-speed manual configurations across various sizes (from 14 to 65). Sizes 40 and larger can be converted to electric operation with an upgrade kit for added convenience.

• Finish Options: Available in a classic chrome-plated bronze finish or a lightweight anodized aluminium (grey/black) finish.

Lewmar Ocean Self Tailing Winch FAQs

• How do I choose the correct winch size for my boat?

• Winch selection is dependent on various factors including boat size, the conditions you typically sail in, and the specific application (e.g., trimming sails, handling lines). Lewmar provides datasheets and manuals with sizing charts to help determine the appropriate power ratio and size for your specific yacht.

• What materials are available, and what's the difference?

• These winches are available with either an aluminium grey anodized alloy drum (model A) or a chrome-plated bronze drum (model C). The robust mechanics in both are highly durable and long-lasting, with one-piece centre stems supporting stainless steel main shafts and gear spindles for strength.

• Can the winch be converted to electric power later?

• Yes, most models from size 40 upwards can be converted to an electric winch with a conversion kit.

• What does "self-tailing" mean?

• A self-tailing (ST) winch has a built-in mechanism with a feeder arm and cleating jaws that automatically hold the line under tension, freeing both of the user's hands for using the winch handle or other tasks. This feature uses "Wavespring technology" to adjust the clamping ring to the specific line (sheet) thickness, accommodating modern ropes with smaller diameters.

• Does the winch have more than one speed?

• Lewmar Ocean winches come in single-speed (e.g., Size 14, 16) and two-speed configurations (e.g., Size 40, 46). Two-speed winches offer different power ratios for faster line trimming or increased power when needed.

• How often does the winch need servicing?

• Lewmar recommends regular servicing to maintain safety and performance. Winches should be completely stripped, cleaned, checked for damage, and lubricated at the end of each sailing season and before the new one starts. During an active sailing season, they should be stripped, cleaned, and re-lubricated two or three times.

• Are special tools required for maintenance?

• No, the Lewmar Ocean winches are designed for easy servicing without the need for special tools.

• What is the proper way to lubricate the winch?

• You should apply only a light smear of winch grease to ratchet tracks, gear teeth, and bearings. Never use grease to lubricate the pawls; instead, use a light engine oil to prevent them from sticking, which can be a safety hazard.