Converting a Lewmar EVO winch to electric means fitting a below-deck motor and gearbox to your existing self-tailing EVO drum, so the winch powers your sheets and halyards at the push of a button instead of by hand. The EVO range is engineered for this upgrade, and with the correct conversion kit, marine-grade wiring, and a properly sized power supply, an experienced boat owner can complete the job in a weekend.
Lewmar EVO electric conversion at a glance
| Consideration | Manual EVO Winch | Electric EVO Conversion |
|---|---|---|
| Effort to trim | Manual grinding with a handle | Push-button, motor does the work |
| Best for | Smaller loads, budget setups | Larger sails, shorthanded/older crews |
| Power supply | None required | 12V or 24V battery bank + breaker |
| Installation | Deck mount only | Deck mount + below-deck motor/wiring |
| Safety | Depends on crew strength | Reduces strain and injury risk |
What is a Lewmar EVO winch?
Lewmar is a trusted name in marine hardware, and its EVO range is built for reliability, easy maintenance, and clean deck integration. EVO winches are made from robust materials chosen to endure marine conditions, use accessible servicing points with minimal moving parts, and come in a range of sizes to suit different boat designs and sailing requirements. That modular, service-friendly design is exactly what makes the EVO family well suited to an electric conversion.
Why convert your Lewmar EVO winch to electric?
Converting to electric is more than a convenience upgrade; it can meaningfully change your time on the water. The main reasons boat owners choose it are:
- Reduced effort: the motor handles the heavy lifting, saving energy and time on every trim.
- Improved safety: automating line handling lowers the risk of injury, especially in high winds or rough seas.
- Precision control: electric winches deliver smoother, more consistent tensioning of sails and lines.
- Long-term value: despite the upfront cost, an electric winch can improve resale value and reduce physical wear on the crew.
How do you convert a Lewmar EVO winch to electric?
Converting an EVO winch requires careful planning and the right tools. Always consult your winch manual and follow all Lewmar safety guidelines. The process breaks down into six stages.
Gather your materials
- Lewmar EVO electric conversion kit specific to your winch size
- Appropriate mounting hardware
- Power cables, connectors, and marine-grade wiring
- Drill and relevant drill bits
- Marine sealant
- Safety gear (gloves, safety glasses)
Remove the existing winch
Carefully remove the old manual winch following your Lewmar EVO instructions. Keep all screws and washers safe, and clean the mounting area to provide a proper surface for the electric winch base.
Install the electric motor and gearbox
Following the conversion kit instructions, attach the motor and gearbox to the winch drum below deck. Ensure proper alignment to avoid gear damage and confirm the rotation direction matches manufacturer guidelines.
Wiring and electrical connections
- Route the power cables from the battery or power source to the winch location.
- Use marine-grade wiring to resist corrosion.
- Secure connections with waterproof connectors and seal openings with marine sealant.
Test the winch
With all connections made, first test the electric winch without load. Verify smooth operation, then test under a light load to confirm everything functions correctly.
Reassemble and secure
Reinstall all winch components, including the drum and top cap, and tighten bolts to the recommended torque. Double-check the wiring so no cables are crimped or exposed.
Which EVO electric winch size and voltage should I choose?
EVO electric winches are offered across sizes (for example 40, 45, 50, 55, and 70) in both 12V and 24V. Smaller sizes on 12V suit mid-size cruisers, while larger drums and higher loads on bigger boats typically move to 24V for efficient, cooler-running power delivery. Match the winch size to your existing manual winch and your largest expected sheet or halyard load, and confirm your battery bank and breaker can support the motor’s current draw.
How do you maintain a Lewmar EVO electric winch?
Routine maintenance keeps an electric winch running smoothly and extends its lifespan:
- Regular inspection: check for corrosion, loose connections, or worn parts every few weeks.
- Lubrication: use Lewmar-approved lubricants on gears and bearings to reduce wear.
- Electrical checks: inspect wiring for deterioration or damage and replace as needed.
- Annual servicing: schedule a thorough inspection or professional service at least once a year.
Frequently asked questions
Can any Lewmar EVO winch be converted to electric?
The EVO range is designed to accept electric conversion using a kit matched to the specific winch size. Always confirm your winch model against the correct conversion kit before ordering.
Do I need 12V or 24V for my EVO electric winch?
Smaller EVO sizes commonly run on 12V, while larger sizes and higher-load applications on bigger boats typically use 24V. Choose the voltage your battery bank and boat’s electrical system are set up to support.
Is an electric winch conversion a DIY job?
An experienced boat owner with the right tools can complete it by carefully following the Lewmar EVO instructions. If you are unsure about the motor alignment or electrical wiring, consult a professional rigger or electrician.
What tools and materials do I need?
You need the correct EVO conversion kit, mounting hardware, marine-grade power cables and connectors, a drill, marine sealant, and basic safety gear such as gloves and glasses.
Will an electric winch improve safety on board?
Yes. Automating line handling reduces the physical strain and injury risk of manual grinding, which is especially valuable in high winds, rough seas, or when sailing shorthanded.
How often should I service an EVO electric winch?
Inspect connections and moving parts every few weeks, lubricate with Lewmar-approved products, and schedule a full inspection or professional service at least once a year.
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