Lewmar 40AST Two Speed Self Tailing Aluminum Winch
Lewmar 40AST Two Speed Self Tailing Aluminum Winch — Product description
Upgrade your sailing experience with the Lewmar 40AST two-speed self-tailing aluminum winch, a powerhouse designed for serious sailors who demand precision and power on the water. This winch stands out with its innovative Wavespring self-tailer jaws, which deliver a gentle yet secure grip on ropes—from modern skinny Dyneema lines to classic thicker Dacron. The self-adjusting spring mechanism ensures flawless performance across varying rope diameters, while the sleek feeder arm eliminates snags for smooth, uninterrupted operation every time you trim sheets or hoist sails.
Why Sailors Trust the Lewmar 40AST
Crafted from lightweight aluminum, this winch tips the scales at just 10.7 pounds, making it ideal for racers and cruisers alike who want to shed weight without sacrificing strength. The two-speed design gives you versatility: flick to first gear for rapid line retrieval during maneuvers, then shift to second for muscle when battling heavy loads like a spinnaker in a blow. Mariners rave about its durability in harsh marine environments, backed by Lewmar's reputation for engineering winches that endure years of saltwater abuse.
Key Features That Set It Apart
- Wavespring Self-Tailer: Wave-shaped jaws provide even pressure distribution, protecting rope fibers while locking in securely—no slippage under tension.
- Low-Friction Feeder Arm: Guides lines onto the drum with zero drag, preventing jams even in rough seas.
- Two-Speed Operation: Seamless gear shift for speed (1.9:1 ratio) or power (5.8:1 ratio), with impressive power ratios of 13.2:1 and 40.2:1.
- Versatile Line Handling: Perfect for ropes from 5/16 to 1/2 inch, adapting to your rigging setup effortlessly.
- Corrosion-Resistant Aluminum: Anodized finish fights off the elements, keeping it looking sharp season after season.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Gear Ratio (1st/2nd) | Power Ratio (1st/2nd) | Weight (lb) |
|---|---|---|
| 1.9:1 / 5.8:1 | 13.2:1 / 40.2:1 | 10.7 |
| Drum Diameter (in) | Base Diameter (in) | Height (in) | Line Entry (in) | Line Size (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 15/16 | 5 13/16 | 6 13/16 | 3 1/8 | 5/16 - 1/2 |
Pro Installation Tips for Peak Performance
Mounting is straightforward with five M6 (1/4-inch) countersunk head screws on a 121mm (4 3/4-inch) PCD bolt circle. For optimal rope flow, position the winch so the line approaches the drum at a 5-10 degree angle relative to the base. If your deck layout doesn't allow this naturally, grab a base wedge to fine-tune the angle—it's a small tweak that prevents uneven wear and boosts efficiency. Always torque fasteners to spec and bed them properly to resist the constant vibration of offshore passages.
Real-World Usage: From Racing to Cruising
On a J/105 racer, this winch shines during tacks, letting crew handle genoa sheets with minimal effort. Cruisers appreciate its power for anchoring in 30-knot winds or managing a roller furling main. The self-tailing action frees up hands for other tasks, making single-handing a breeze. Pair it with matching blocks for a seamless deck layout, and you'll notice how it transforms sheet handling from a chore to a joy.
Maintenance Secrets for Longevity
Keep it running like new with simple habits: rinse with fresh water after every sail to flush salt, inspect jaws for wear annually, and lubricate the drum sparingly with marine grease. Avoid over-servicing the Wavespring—it's designed to be low-maintenance. A quick pawl check before each season ensures reliable ratcheting. With proper care, expect decades of service from this workhorse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What rope sizes does the Lewmar 40AST self-tailing winch handle?
It accommodates lines from 5/16 to 1/2 inch in diameter, making it versatile for both modern synthetic ropes and traditional Dacron.
How does the Wavespring self-tailer work?
The Wavespring features self-adjusting jaws with a wave-shaped profile that gently grips ropes without damaging fibers, automatically conforming to different diameters for secure holding.
Is the Lewmar 40AST suitable for racing sailboats?
Absolutely—its lightweight aluminum build and two-speed gearing provide quick line retrieval and high power, ideal for competitive racing in classes like J/Boats or TP52.
What is the weight of this winch?
At 10.7 pounds, it's engineered for minimal weight aloft, helping optimize your boat's performance without compromising on strength.
How do I install the Lewmar 40AST winch correctly?
Use five M6 (1/4-inch) countersunk screws on a 121mm PCD. Ensure the rope enters at 5-10 degrees to the base; a wedge may be needed for perfect alignment.
Can this winch handle heavy loads like spinnaker sheets?
Yes, the second gear delivers a 40.2:1 power ratio, providing ample grunt for big sails or anchoring duties in challenging conditions.
What's the difference between one-speed and two-speed winches?
Two-speed winches like the 40AST offer a low-gear fast mode for easing lines and a high-gear power mode for cranking under load, versus single-speed's fixed ratio.
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 121mm (4 3/4 in) PCD. Lewmar recommend 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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SKU: NVN-1002629
MPN: 49040055
UPC: 743683001604
Technical specifications
| Brand | Lewmar |
| Model | Lewmar 40AST Two Speed Self Tailing Aluminum Winch |
| SKU / MFR# | 1002629 |
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