When to replace pawls when servicing lewmar winches?

[Statistical]

Needed service kit because the plastic bearing sleeve was cracking. Was surprised lewmar service kit had replacement pawls (4). Didn't ever think this was a part which could wear out. At what point should they be replaced. The manual was decidedly unhelpful simply saying the should be replaced when worn. I have never replaced pawls on any winch (maybe I should have been).



Would you replace these with the pawls from the kit or just reuse them and save the replacements in the kit for a future day?

[donradcliffe]

The pawls can crack. Just reuse the ones you have, and save the kit ones.

[thinwater]

Replace. That's why they are included.



When they wear they accelerate wear of the winch body, which you can't cheaply replace. No need to save them.

[Statistical]

Originally Posted by thinwater

Replace. That's why they are included.



When they wear they accelerate wear of the winch body, which you can't cheaply replace. No need to save them.

Thanks. Thinking about it the service kit is cheap and winches are expensive. No sense in being penny wise and pound foolish.

[CrispyCringle]

I would compare the new and old pawls. If the edge that rubs on the teeth of the ratchet are more rounded than the new ones, then replace. Otherwise, save for when you lose one. It takes a heck of a lot of use to really wear one out IMO.

[Statistical]

Originally Posted by CrispyCringle

I would compare the new and old pawls. If the edge that rubs on the teeth of the ratchet are more rounded than the new ones, then replace. Otherwise, save for when you lose one. It takes a heck of a lot of use to really wear one out IMO.

There is a bit of wear but it is very slight. More on the side not the edge. Since this is a new to me boat and I don't know if it has ever been replaced I think I will go ahead and replace it and at least now I know when it was last done.