Lewmar 16AST Single Speed Self Tailing Aluminum Winch
Lewmar 16AST Single Speed Self Tailing Aluminum Winch — Product description
Upgrade your sail-handling setup with the Lewmar 16AST single-speed self-tailing aluminum winch, a reliable workhorse designed for smooth, effortless operation on the water. Crafted from lightweight yet durable aluminum, this winch combines Lewmar's innovative Wavespring technology with a self-adjusting jaw system that delivers a gentle yet secure grip on ropes. Whether you're managing smaller modern lines or traditional thicker Dacron composites, it adapts seamlessly, reducing wear and ensuring consistent performance during long races or casual cruises.
Why Choose the Lewmar 16AST for Your Boat?
Sailors swear by self-tailing winches like the 16AST because they let you focus on trimming sails without constantly babysitting the line. The low-friction feeder arm guides rope straight onto the drum without snags, even in choppy conditions. At just 6.4 pounds, its aluminum construction keeps your deck weight down, improving boat balance and speed—crucial for competitive racing or performance cruising. The single-speed design shines for quick, powerful cranks on sheets and halyards, with a gear ratio that multiplies your effort efficiently.
- Versatile Line Handling: Accommodates ropes from 5/16 to 1/2 inch, bridging old-school and high-tech cords.
- Corrosion-Resistant Build: Anodized aluminum thrives in saltwater environments, outlasting cheaper alternatives.
- Ergonomic Power: 15.8:1 power ratio means less strain on your arms during tacks and gybes.
- Compact Footprint: Fits neatly on rails or decks without dominating space.
Technical Specifications
| Gear Ratio | Power Ratio | Weight (lb) |
|---|---|---|
| 2:1 | 15.8:1 | 6.4 |
Precise Dimensions for Seamless Integration
Measuring just right for most mid-sized yachts and keelboats, these dimensions ensure a custom fit every time.
| Drum Diameter (in) | Base Diameter (in) | Height (in) | Line Entry (in) | Line Size (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 9/16 | 4 3/4 | 5 3/4 | 2 5/16 | 5/16 - 1/2 |
Installation Tips from Seasoned Riggers
Secure mounting is key to longevity. Use five M6 (1/4-inch) countersunk head screws on a 94mm (3 11/16-inch) PCD pattern. For optimal performance, position the winch so the rope approaches the drum at a 5-10 degree angle to the base axis—this minimizes twist and binding. If your deck setup doesn't allow this naturally, a simple base wedge can correct it, preventing premature wear. Always bed the base with marine sealant for a watertight seal against the elements.
Maintenance for Peak Performance
Keep your 16AST spinning like new with basic care: Rinse with fresh water after every sail to flush salt. Lubricate the jaws and drum sparingly with winch grease—avoid overdoing it to prevent grit buildup. Annually, strip and service the internals, checking springs for fatigue. This proactive approach extends life far beyond stock winches, saving you downtime and repair hassles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Lewmar 16AST self-tailing winch different from standard winches?
The 16AST features Lewmar's Wavespring jaws that self-adjust for a gentle grip, handling varied rope sizes without slippage or damage. Its feeder arm ensures snag-free loading.
Is the Lewmar 16AST suitable for racing sailboats?
Absolutely—its lightweight aluminum body and 15.8:1 power ratio deliver fast, efficient line handling ideal for quick maneuvers in regattas.
What rope sizes does the 16AST handle best?
It excels with lines from 5/16 to 1/2 inch, making it versatile for both modern Dyneema and classic Dacron on sheets, halyards, and control lines.
How do I install the Lewmar 16AST winch correctly?
Mount with five M6 countersunk screws on 94mm PCD. Aim for a 5-10 degree rope entry angle; use a wedge if needed for proper alignment.
Can I use this winch in saltwater environments?
Yes, the anodized aluminum construction resists corrosion, but rinse with fresh water after use and service annually for longevity.
What's the weight advantage of aluminum over stainless steel winches?
At only 6.4 pounds, it shaves significant weight from your deck compared to heavier steel models, boosting boat speed and responsiveness.
Does the single-speed design limit its use?
Not at all—the 2:1 gear ratio provides ample speed and power for most primary and secondary winch applications on cruising or racing boats.
The Lewmar 'Wavespring' self-tailer combines their renowned and gentle wave grip feature with self adjusting springs. It handles today's smaller diameters, as well as the traditional larger Dacron composite ropes. A sleek, minimum-friction feeder arm provides absolute snag-free operation.
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Mounting Instructions 5 x M6 (1/4 in) c'sk head screws on 94mm (3 11/16 in) PCD. Lewmar recommends that the rope enters onto the drum at an angle of 5 to 10 to the base axis of the winch. To achieve this angle it may be necessary to use a base wedge when installing the winch. This product is Made to Order. | ||||||||||
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Lewmar's "Wave Spring" automatic sizing combines its famous soft wave grip function with an automatic adjustment spring. It can handle today's smaller diameters as well as...
SKU: NVN-1000811
MPN: 49016000
UPC: 743683001536
Technical specifications
| Brand | Lewmar |
| Model | Lewmar 16AST Single Speed Self Tailing Aluminum Winch |
| SKU / MFR# | 1000811 |
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Frequently asked questions
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