What size Self-tailing winch do I need?

[twjohnson83]

I have an '84 Catalina 30, and I'm replacing the non ST Winches. The current ones are Lewmar 30s, but I've heard I should go with Lewmar 40s when upgrading.

Also, when I replace them will the bolts line up with the old holes? Trying to avoid drilling...

Thanks

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

40's will likely require lines larger in diameter than that which you likely have for the self-tailers to grab properly. Given the larger size winches, I doubt the holes would match but perhaps someone else can direct you to the Lewmar web site specs for them.

 

[Ward H]

I asked the same question a few months back. Most responses were to go to the manufacturer's web site. They all have guides to find the correct size winch for your use. Then check the on line manuals and templates to see the mounting dimensions.
Another common response was that most stock winches were undersized and you should go up at least one size.
I followed that advice and am very happy with my selection.

 

[twjohnson83]

Thanks for the information!

Much appreciated

 

[Hayden Watson]

My 1988 C30 tr/bs came with 40ST winches and I wouldn't want anything smaller.

 

[mortyd]

i suggest you call the folk who made your boat. call catalina or lewmar. if you get the wrong advice from an online forum, where do you go from there?

 

[Alan Gomes]

My 1988 C30 tr/bs came with 40ST winches and I wouldn't want anything smaller.

Agreed. I used to have an '87 standard rig and the 40ST's were marginal even for that. Bump it up to 48's and you should be good.

Don't know what to tell you about the fit and the hole spacing, but you should be able to find that info online.

 

[jrowan]

48 ST's seem like overkill. I still have the standard Lewmar 2 speed 30's & they have never failed to haul in our big 150 genny. But if you have the $$, Lewmar would be glad to sell them to you. I have also been looking for used ST Lewmar's for years, in order to save a few bucks. The big ones never seem to come up for sale. I wonder who parted out all of those boats wrecked from Hurrican Sandy?