Lewmar V4 / V5 Series Deck Unit - Gypsy Drum

Lewmar V4 / V5 Series Deck Unit - Gypsy Drum

Lewmar V4 / V5 Series Deck Unit - Gypsy Drum are the largest rope-chain windlasses in the Lewmar range, specifically designed to provide high-performance anchoring for larger powerboats and sailboats (typically ranging from 48ft to 65ft).  Crafted from precision-cast 316-grade stainless steel, this vertical deck unit is built to withstand the harshest British marine environments while maintaining a sleek, low-profile appearance on your foredeck. The "Gypsy/Drum" configuration provides the ultimate versatility, allowing you to manage your primary anchor rode via the gypsy while using the independent W.A.R.P. drum for warping or secondary line handling.

Inside the beautifully styled exterior lies a robust, reliable drivetrain. The unit features Lewmar’s legendary cone clutch technology, which ensures smooth, effortless control during deployment and retrieval, giving you total peace of mind when the weather turns.

Please Note: This listing is for the Deck Unit only. To complete your installation, you will also require a gypsy, motor gearbox, circuit breaker, contactor, and switches. If you are unsure which components you need to match your chain and boat setup, our team at Brightlingsea is always on hand to provide expert advice.

Lewmar V4 / V5 Series Deck Unit - Gypsy Drum Key Features

• Precision 316 Stainless Steel: Manufactured from high-grade, polished stainless steel for maximum corrosion resistance and a premium finish that lasts.
• Integrated W.A.R.P. Drum: The Wear Resistant Advanced Polymer (W.A.R.P.) drum offers improved grip and reduced line wear, making it ideal for warping or handling spring lines.
• Smooth Cone Clutch: Provides gradual engagement and "free-fall" capabilities, allowing for precise control and quiet operation during anchor deployment.
• Robust Drivetrain: Engineered for longevity, the heavy-duty drive train is designed to handle the high working loads required by larger vessels.
• Manual Free-Fall: Features a manual release for rapid anchor deployment in emergencies or when precise positioning is required.
• Versatile Rope-Chain Gypsy: Designed to transition seamlessly between rope and chain, ensuring a secure 180° wrap for maximum stability (gypsy sold separately to match your specific chain size).
• Optional Manual Override: For added security at sea, the unit is compatible with manual override kits, ensuring you can always retrieve your anchor regardless of power status.

Specifications at a Glance:

• • Typical Boat Length: 48ft – 65ft (15m – 20m)
  • Pulling Power: Max pull up to 1500kg (Model dependent)
  • Construction: 316 Stainless Steel
  • Configuration: Vertical Gypsy and Drum

Lewmar V4 / V5 Series Deck Unit - Gypsy Drum FAQs

What exactly is included with the "Deck Unit"?

When you purchase the V4 / V5 Deck Unit, you are buying the above-deck stainless steel component. This includes the beautifully styled 316 stainless steel housing, the W.A.R.P. (Wear Resistant Advanced Profile) drum, and the internal drivetrain.

Please note: This is the deck unit only. To complete your installation, you will also require a gypsy (specified to your chain size), a motor gearbox, a contactor, a circuit breaker, and your preferred switches. We stock all these at Morgan Marine, so do get in touch if you need a complete package.

What is the difference between the V4 and the V5 models?

Both units share the same sleek, compact design and robust 316 stainless steel construction. The primary difference lies in their power and pull capacity:

Lewmar V4: Designed for boats up to approximately 50ft (15m). It typically utilizes a 1600W or 2000W motor.

Lewmar V5: Designed for larger vessels up to 60ft (18m). It is the largest rope-chain windlass in the Lewmar range, offering a massive maximum pull of up to 1500kg (3,300 lbs).

What is a "Gypsy Drum" configuration?

This specific unit features both a gypsy (to handle your anchor chain and rope) and a drum (also known as a warping drum or capstan). The drum allows you to use the windlass independently for hauling mooring lines or a second warp without deploying your main anchor. It’s an incredibly versatile setup for larger cruisers.

What does the "W.A.R.P. Drum" feature do?

Lewmar’s unique W.A.R.P. (Wear Resistant Advanced Profile) drum is designed to improve grip and reduce rope wear. The unique pattern on the drum ensures that your mooring lines don't slip under heavy load, providing safer and more efficient rope handling.

Does this unit support "Free-Fall"?

Yes, the V4 and V5 units come with a Manual Free-Fall feature. This allows you to deploy your anchor rapidly by releasing the clutch, which is vital in emergency situations or when you need to "drop" precisely on a spot in windy conditions.

Can I operate the windlass manually if I lose power?

Absolutely. These units are compatible with an optional manual override. If you experience an electrical failure on board, you can use a standard winch handle to manually retrieve your anchor. At Morgan Marine, we highly recommend adding this feature for blue-water cruisers.

What size chain and rope should I use?

Because the gypsy is sold separately, you can tailor the unit to your existing ground tackle. The V4/V5 gypsies are available to suit:

Chain: 8mm, 10mm, or 12mm (ISO or DIN766).

Rope: 16mm to 20mm (5/8" to 3/4") 3-strand or 8-plait.

Tip from the Yard: Always ensure your rope-to-chain splice is tapered and in good condition for the smoothest transition through the gypsy.

How thick does my deck need to be for installation?

Lewmar recommends a minimum deck thickness of 40mm (approx. 1 1/2") for the V4 and V5 series. Because of the immense loads these units can pull, the deck must be substantial. If your deck is thinner (common on some GRP or foam-core boats), you will need to install a reinforcement pad underneath to spread the load.

What are the electrical requirements?

These units are typically paired with high-output motors (12V or 24V).

Circuit Breaker: Usually requires a 110A to 150A breaker depending on the motor choice.

Cable: Because of the high current draw, you must use correctly rated marine-grade cable to prevent voltage drop. If you’re unsure, our engineering team can calculate the correct cable gauge based on the distance from your battery bank.

Is the unit waterproof?

The above-deck unit is made from 316 stainless steel and is built to withstand the harshest salt-spray environments. However, the motor and gearbox (mounted below deck) should be kept as dry as possible. The V-Series is designed with a "fast-fit" feature that makes aligning the deck unit and the motor gearbox much simpler during installation.