Lewmar V1 Series Kit - Gypsy Only

Lewmar V1 Series Kit - Gypsy Only

Lewmar V1 Series Kit - Gypsy Only are one of the most compact stainless-steel vertical windlasses available today, the V1 is the perfect balance of modern aesthetics and rugged engineering.

Designed specifically for power and sailboats between 28ft and 40ft (up to 12m), the V1 features a low-profile deck unit crafted from high-grade AISI316 stainless steel. This kit is the "Gypsy Only" version, meaning it provides a sleek, snag-free look on your foredeck by concealing the robust drivetrain and motor gearbox below deck.

Whether you are navigating the Essex coast or heading further afield, the V1’s innovative FastFit™ technology ensures that installation is straightforward and precise—often a simple one-person job. With its combination of a powerful 700W motor and a precision-engineered worm gearbox, you can trust this windlass to handle your ground tackle with ease and total control.

Lewmar V1 Series Kit - Gypsy Only Key Features

• FastFit™ Installation: Our customers love the patented FastFit™ motor gearbox attachment. It allows the motor to be fitted and rotated in 45° increments, ensuring a perfect alignment with the deck unit every time—even in tight chain lockers.
  
• Marine-Grade Construction: The deck unit is built from polished AISI316 stainless steel for ultimate corrosion resistance in harsh saltwater environments.
• Cone Clutch Control: Features a smooth cone clutch for "free-fall" manual chain release or easy, controlled anchoring.
• Fall Safe Anchor Lock: An essential safety feature that prevents accidental deployment of the anchor while under way.
• Robust Drivetrain: Equipped with a reliable worm gearbox and a 700W motor, providing a maximum pull of up to 454kg to ensure your anchor breaks out cleanly.
• Rope-Chain Gypsy: The precision-engineered gypsy is designed to handle both calibrated chain and spliced rope combinations seamlessly.
• IP68 Rated: The motor is well-protected against water ingress, ensuring long-term durability below deck.

Technical Specifications:

• • Boat Size: Up to 12m (40ft)
  • Motor Power: 700W (12V)
  • Max Pull: 454kg (1,000lb)
  • Working Load: 113kg (250lb)
  • Weight: Approx. 19kg
  • Compatibility: Suitable for 6mm, 7mm, or 8mm chain (depending on gypsy selection).

What’s in the Kit?

This comprehensive kit includes the V1 deck unit, motor gearbox, rope/chain gypsy, contactor (solenoid), circuit breaker, and a guarded rocker switch—everything you need for a professional-standard installation.

Morgan Marine Tip: Always ensure your battery and cabling are up to the task of powering a 700W motor to get the very best performance from your new V1 windlass. If you need advice on cable sizing or installation, our workshop team is only a phone call away!

Lewmar V1 Series Kit - Gypsy Only FAQs

What size boat is the V1 suitable for?
The V1 is a powerhouse for its size, ideally suited for both motorboats and sailboats between 28ft and 40ft (approx. 8.5m – 12m). If your vessel is particularly heavy for its length, we often recommend stepping up to the V2, but for standard displacement boats in this range, the V1 is the "gold standard."

How do I know which gypsy size to choose?

It is vital to match the gypsy to your existing (or new) anchor chain. The V1 typically comes in three common calibrations:

| 006 | 6mm ISO 4565 / 1/4" G4 | 12mm – 14mm 3-strand or 8-plait |
| 000 | 7mm ISO 4565 / 1/4" G4 | 12mm – 14mm 3-strand or 8-plait |
| 001 | 8mm DIN 766 / 8mm ISO | 12mm – 16mm 3-strand or 8-plait |

Morgan Marine Tip: If you aren't sure which chain you have, please give us a call! Using the wrong gypsy will cause the chain to "jump" or jam, which can damage the deck unit.

Does this kit support "Free Fall"?

Yes. The V1 features a manual chain release, allowing you to let the anchor go in a "free fall" for rapid deployment. You can also control the descent using the cone clutch for a smooth, controlled drop.

What is the "FastFit" feature I keep hearing about?

Lewmar’s FastFit™ technology is a game-changer for DIY installers and boatyards alike. It allows the motor gearbox to be fitted to the deck unit by a single person. The clamping system ensures the drive shaft is perfectly aligned every time, and the gearbox can be rotated in 45° increments to fit your specific locker configuration.

What are the electrical requirements?

The V1 is a 12V system with a 700W motor.

• • Normal Current Draw: 80 Amps
  • Circuit Breaker: 90 Amp (Included in the kit)
  • Max Pull: 454kg (1,000 lbs)
  • Working Load: 113kg (250 lbs)

Can I operate the windlass manually if my battery dies?

Yes. The kit includes an emergency manual override handle. While the V1 is primarily an electric unit, you can use the handle to recover your anchor should you experience a total power failure on board.

How much "fall" do I need in my chain locker?

For any vertical windlass like the V1 to work correctly, gravity must do the work of stowing the chain. Lewmar recommends a minimum vertical fall of 300mm (12 inches) between the underside of the deck and the top of the heaped chain in the locker.