Lewmar 46CST Two Speed Self Tailing Chrome Winch
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Lewmar 46CST Two Speed Self Tailing Chrome Winch Product Description
Experience effortless sail handling with the Lewmar 46CST two-speed self-tailing chrome winch, a go-to choice for serious sailors who demand precision and power on deck. This winch stands out with its innovative Wavespring self-tailer jaws that deliver a gentle yet secure grip on ropes—from slender modern lines to beefier traditional Dacron. The self-adjusting spring mechanism ensures smooth operation across varying rope diameters, eliminating the guesswork during intense maneuvers.
Crafted for reliability in harsh marine environments, the mirror-polished chrome finish not only turns heads but also resists corrosion, keeping your setup looking sharp season after season. Sailors rave about the low-friction feeder arm that guides lines flawlessly onto the drum, preventing snags even in choppy conditions or when trimming under load.
Standout Features for Superior Performance
- Two-Speed Operation: Switch seamlessly between 2.4:1 first gear for speedy line retrieval and 7.6:1 second gear for maximum cranking power—ideal for sheeting in heavy air or powering through tacks.
- Wavespring Technology: Patented jaws conform to rope shape, reducing wear and providing consistent hold without pinching, so your lines last longer.
- Self-Tailing Jaws: Automatically lock the line in place, freeing your hands for other tasks like steering or adjusting sails.
- Chrome Bronze Construction: Hard anodized for drum and center stem, with bronze jaws—built to handle saltwater abuse while maintaining a premium aesthetic.
- Versatile Line Handling: Accommodates ropes from 5/16 to 9/16 inches, perfect for a range of yachts from cruisers to racers.
Technical Specifications
| Gear Ratio (1st/2nd) | Power Ratio (1st/2nd) | Weight (lb) |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4:1 / 7.6:1 | 13.9:1 / 44.8:1 | 21.3 |
Precise Dimensions for Seamless Installation
| Drum Diameter (in) | Base Diameter (in) | Height (in) | Line Entry (in) | Line Size (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 7/16 | 6 5/8 | 7 9/16 | 3 5/16 | 5/16 - 9/16 |
For optimal performance, mount using five M8 (5/16 inch) countersunk head screws on a 136mm (5 11/32 inch) PCD bolt circle. Position the winch so the rope approaches the drum at a 5-10 degree angle to the base axis—consider adding a base wedge if your deck layout requires it. This setup minimizes friction and maximizes efficiency.
Pro Tips for Installation and Maintenance
Drop-in ready for most cockpits, but always double-check your deck's load-bearing capacity. Apply marine-grade sealant around the base to thwart leaks. Regular freshwater rinses after sails keep the chrome gleaming and mechanisms smooth—avoid harsh chemicals that could dull the finish. Self-tailing winches like this one thrive with minimal upkeep, but inspect jaws seasonally for wear.
Pro sailors often pair these on primary sheets for genoa or spinnaker work, where the two-speed ratio shines during gusty runs. The power ratio in high gear lets even solo crew muscle in big sails without strain.
Why This Winch Elevates Your Sailing Game
In a sea of winches, the Lewmar 46CST delivers where it counts: raw power without bulk, intuitive handling that builds confidence, and engineering honed over decades on championship yachts. It's not just hardware—it's the edge that turns good crews into great ones, whether racing offshore or cruising coastal waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Wavespring self-tailer special on this Lewmar winch?
The Wavespring features self-adjusting jaws with a wave-like pattern that grips ropes gently yet securely, adapting to different sizes and reducing line wear compared to traditional V-jaws.
Can this winch handle both thin Dyneema and thick Dacron lines?
Yes, it's designed for line sizes from 5/16 to 9/16 inches, making it versatile for modern low-stretch ropes as well as classic larger diameters.
How do I switch between speeds on the two-speed mechanism?
Simply rotate the drum clockwise for first gear (fast) and apply resistance to engage second gear (power)—no levers needed, just intuitive control.
Is the chrome finish suitable for saltwater use?
Absolutely—the mirror-polished chrome bronze is highly corrosion-resistant, but regular rinsing with fresh water after exposure keeps it in top condition.
What angle should the rope enter the winch?
Aim for 5-10 degrees to the base axis for smooth feeding; a deck wedge can help achieve this if your setup is flat.
How heavy is the Lewmar 46CST winch?
It weighs 21.3 pounds, striking a balance between robustness and ease of handling during installation.
Does it require special tools for maintenance?
Basic tools suffice—mostly just a rinse and occasional jaw lubrication with winch grease to keep it spinning freely.
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.
| Mounting Instructions 5 x M8 (5/16 in) c'sk head screws on 136mm (5 11/32 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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Lewmar 46CST Two Speed Self Tailing Chrome Winch Technical Specifications
| Type: | |
|---|---|
| Vendor: |
Lewmar |
| Weight: |
23.0 lb |
Lewmar 46CST Two Speed Self Tailing Chrome Winch User Reviews
Lewmar 46CST Two Speed Self Tailing Chrome Winch Shipping & Return
| Shipping Weight: |
23.0 lb |
|---|---|
| Box Sizes: |
1.00 (h) x 1.00 (w) x 1.00 (l) |
| Cubic Feet: |
1.0 |
| Returnable: |
Yes |
| USPS First Class: |
Yes |
| P65: |
Yes |
For detailed shipping policy please check our Shipping Policy and you can find our Return and Refund Policy here.