Need Lewmar 65st bases manufactured

[capta]

Well, we're in a fine pickle. Lewmar doesn't have this part and it's looking like there isn't one available on Earth, Venus or even Mars.
Does anyone know a caster or machine shop capable of producing the item in the attached drawing? Any help would be appreciated and if you know anyone with older Lewmar 65st electric winches, they may also need one or two bases, as there seems to be a serious design problem with these bases.
I can email a much larger drawing if needed.

 

[woodster]

try winch spares in the uk they may be able to help you they do a lot of custom work on the old lewmars ...i got some parts from them about three or four years ago for a buddy of mine

 

[Steve Dion]

Have you tried places like Sailorman, Minney Yacht Surplus etc?

Usedboatequipment.com ......

 

[Ted]

Check out some companies that do 3D printing. If you're not familiar with 3D printing, this link will explain the process.

http://web.mit.edu/tdp/www/whatis3dp.html

Also look into companies that do CNC prototype work. It looks like you almost have enough information on that drawing for someone to create the necessary computer aided design (CAD) file. Some details are missing but it's a good start. Do you have that drawing as a CAD file or is it just a paper drawing? If you have the actual file, you are almost ready to have the part manufactured. Some companies have turn around times within a few days.

 

[Tom G P-21]

Have not done business with them, usual disclaimer, but here are a pair of used winches. Verify its the right model.

http://www.usedboatequipment.com/ads/lewmar-65-3-speed-winch-winches/

 

[Ken Cross]

You might try these guys:

http://boatpartsferret.com/sailboat-wrecking-yard-in-lynden-wa/

Ken

 

[capta]

Guys, though I really appreciate the thoughts, replacing these winches at 4k to 8k just isn't an option. I still hope to manufacture the parts for a fraction of that.

 

[woodster]

Guys, though I really appreciate the thoughts, replacing these winches at 4k to 8k just isn't an option. I still hope to manufacture the parts for a fraction of that.

as i said earlier above try winch spares in the uk they sell and make parts for older lewmar winches "it's your boat your choice"

 

[Allan12210]

Guys, though I really appreciate the thoughts, replacing these winches at 4k to 8k just isn't an option. I still hope to manufacture the parts for a fraction of that.

Looking at the drawing reminds me of the control head I had to replace. The original was plastic and after cracking I was able to make a new one. The key to keeping the expenses down is to make it solid like I did where a machine shop removes as little material as possible. In your case, maybe its just drilling and counterboring the holes to mount it to the coaming and drilling and tapping for mounting the winch. One big hole would be in the center. You have a very good drawing that a shop could give you some feedback on.

To keep costs even lower, I bought the aluminum I needed from these guys:

http://www.discountsteel.com/

If you can find something close in diameter, then a shop can turn it to your final size pretty easily. Or, to save more, if its a little oversized, they could just cut a bevel next to the mating surface to match the winch diameter. Have it painted or better yet, powder coated and you are good to go. Make 2 and save even more!

 

[kloudie1]

Big chunk.. Least expensive looks to be to weld a plate to a pipe, then machine .. a solid chunk that big is gonna be expensive.. unless ya find the right scrap pile..
Good luck with it

 

[capta]

The material is stated on the plan as 13000054, hard anodise(sic) w/ black paint. I'm thinking bronze would do just as well, as the other part is bronze and then chrome plate them.
I'm far from suppliers etc. so I think I'm going to have to rely on the manufacturer to find the material.
I just found out that Lewmar threw all the molds and castings out, some years back. What a shame. I'd go dumpster diving if it was more recent! I did suggest that any molds and castings they wish to throw away in the future can just be thrown my way, and I'll rent a storage locker, until someone like me needs an older part made.
I appreciate all the ideas and input, please keep it coming. We're gonna win this one.

 

[woodster]

huum since the parts are not available ...then send a copy of the drawing to a casting company like Algonac in michigan and get a quote to make and chrome plate it

 

[Paul8807]

Lewmar 65s on craigslist

These are on the Annapolis Craigslist
http://annapolis.craigslist.org/bpo/5090011183.html

 

[Ken Cross]

Actually it isn't that difficult

Any descent machine shop should be able to replicate the part. The problem is it's a complex part that would be expensive to create. That's why I suggested the sailboat wrecking yard.

Ken

 

[Gunni]

cannot recall what boat I saw them on, but I have seen winch bases fabricated from wood. Looked like ironwood or one of those species that were formerly used for cheek blocks in the old days. The island guys can be very handy with their woodworking tools.