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

Precise Dimensions for Seamless Integration

Measuring just right for most mid-sized yachts and keelboats, these dimensions ensure a custom fit every time.

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.