Lewmar 55ST EVO® Self Tailing Winch Alloy - Chrome
Lewmar 55ST EVO® Self Tailing Winch Alloy - Chrome — Product description
Imagine powering through a challenging upwind leg in choppy seas, where every sheet adjustment counts. The Lewmar 55ST EVO Self-Tailing Winch in alloy with a gleaming chrome finish steps up as your reliable crewmate, handling heavy loads with effortless precision. Crafted for serious sailors who demand performance without the hassle, this winch evolves the classic Ocean series into a modern powerhouse, blending cutting-edge design with proven durability.
What makes it stand out? It's not just about raw strength—it's the thoughtful engineering that anticipates your needs on deck. From solo offshore passages to competitive regattas, this winch delivers smooth operation, reducing fatigue and boosting your boat's responsiveness.
Standout Features for Seamless Sailing
- Tool-Free Servicing: Spend more time sailing and less in the toolbox. Quick-release components let you strip and service the winch in minutes, keeping it in peak condition even after seasons of hard use.
- Intuitive Direction Arrows: No more guessing—clearly marked indicators guide your hands for faster, safer handling under pressure, ideal for short-handed crews.
- Electric Conversion Ready: Future-proof your setup. Easily upgrade to powered operation without replacing the winch, adapting to your evolving needs as your yacht grows.
These aren't gimmicks; they're real-world solutions born from decades of feedback from professional sailors and yacht builders. The self-tailing jaws grip lines securely across a wide range, minimizing slippage and maximizing control.
Precision Engineering: Technical Breakdown
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Drum Diameter | 4.13" |
| Base Diameter | 8.07" |
| Height | 9.35" |
| Line Entry | 4.53" |
| Line Size | 0.32" - 0.63" |
| 1st Gear Ratio | 2.8:1 |
| 2nd Gear Ratio | 11.2:1 |
| 1st Gear Power Ratio | 13.8:1 |
| 2nd Gear Power Ratio | 54.1:1 |
| Safe Working Load (SWL) | 3263 lbs |
| Weight | 26.4 lbs |
This compact footprint packs serious punch, with two-speed operation that shifts from fast line retrieval in first gear to unbeatable cranking power in second. The alloy body with chrome plating resists corrosion, thriving in saltwater environments.
Real-World Performance on the Water
The dual gear system shines during maneuvers: zip through tacks with the low-ratio first gear for speed, then lock in high-ratio second gear to trim heavy genoas or spinnakers against 20+ knots. With an SWL of over 3,200 lbs, it's built for boats displacing 40-60 feet, where reliability isn't optional.
Sailors rave about its smooth ratchet pawls—quiet yet positive—and the self-tailer that holds lines like a vice, even when slick with spray. Whether cruising the Med or racing around the cans, it elevates your deck hardware game.
Installation and Care Made Simple
Mounting is straightforward on standard deck patterns, and the design minimizes through-deck clutter. For maintenance, a quick freshwater rinse after every sail, plus annual greasing of the jaws and drum, keeps it humming. Lewmar's EVO innovation means no special tools—just common sense and a rag.
Pro tip: Pair it with low-stretch lines in the recommended size for optimal grip and longevity, transforming sheet handling into an artless joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of boats is the Lewmar 55ST EVO winch best suited for?
This winch excels on larger sailing yachts from 40-60 feet, ideal for primary winches handling mainsails, genoas, or spinnaker sheets in racing or long-distance cruising scenarios.
How does the self-tailing mechanism work on this winch?
The jaws automatically grip and release the line as you crank, allowing single-handed operation without cleating. It securely holds lines from 0.32" to 0.63", preventing slips under load.
Can this winch be converted to electric?
Yes, the EVO design is fully convertible to electric with compatible Lewmar motors and controllers, offering a straightforward upgrade path without full replacement.
What maintenance is required for the 55ST EVO winch?
Rinse with fresh water after use, lubricate moving parts annually with marine grease, and perform tool-free servicing as needed. This keeps it reliable season after season.
Is the chrome finish durable in marine environments?
Absolutely—the alloy base with chrome plating provides excellent corrosion resistance, standing up to saltwater exposure far better than basic aluminum winches.
How does the two-speed gearing benefit sailors?
First gear (2.8:1) offers fast line retrieval for quick maneuvers, while second gear (11.2:1, 54.1:1 power) provides immense torque for heavy loads, making it versatile for all conditions.
What line sizes does it accommodate?
It handles lines from 0.32" to 0.63" diameter, perfect for modern low-stretch dyneema or polyester sheets on performance yachts.
55ST EVO® Self Tailing Winch Alloy - Chrome
An evolution of the renowned Lewmar Ocean winch, the EVO® Self-Tailing Winch draws on a wealth of design and manufacturing experience to produce a state-of-the-art winch.
Features:
- Easy Servicing – no tools required
- User-friendly direction arrows
- Convertible to electric
Technical Specifications:
- Drum Diameter - 4.13"
- Base Diameter - 8.07"
- Height - 9.35"
- Line entry - 4.53"
- Line size: - .32" - .63"
- Gear Ratio 1st Gear - 2.8:1
- Gear Ratio 2nd Gear -11.2:1
- Power Ratio 1st Gear - 13.8:1
- Power Ratio 2nd Gear - 54.1:1
- SWL - 3263lbs
- Weight - 26.4lbs
In the Box:
- Winch
- Instruction manual
*Sold as an Individual
SKU: NVN-94254
MPN: 49555056
UPC:
Technical specifications
| Brand | Lewmar |
| Model | Lewmar 55ST EVO® Self Tailing Winch Alloy - Chrome |
| SKU / MFR# | 94254 |
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