You’ll find the Lewmar 110TT is a compact 1.5 kW (2.0 HP) 12 V DC bow thruster kit that gives predictable, low‑vibration lateral thrust for tight docking on small–to–mid sized boats. It ships with a single five‑blade composite prop, joystick, 7 m cable, tunnel, fuse and Blue Sea holder. Installation needs precise tunnel alignment and close battery placement to avoid voltage drop. It’s durable with sealed gearbox and routine service, and more detailed tradeoffs follow.
Some Key Takeaways
- Compact 1.5 kW (2.0 HP) unit delivers predictable lateral thrust ideal for tight docking on small–mid sized boats.
- Single five‑blade composite propeller gives balanced push both directions with low vibration and muted broadband noise.
- Proportional joystick control provides linear thrust response for precise feathering and intuitive steering.
- Installation needs precise tunnel alignment, protected routing of the 7 m cable, and nearby fuse holder at the battery.
- Sealed gearbox and robust seals reduce maintenance, but inspect prop, seals, and service gearbox lubrication per intervals.
Lewmar 110TT at a Glance : Specs, Kit Contents, and Who It Suits
Check the Lewmar 110TT and you'll find a compact, 1.5 kW (2.0 HP) 12 V DC bow thruster kit that includes the thruster unit, joystick control, a 7 m cable, thrust tunnel, fuse and Blue Sea fuse holder. You get a single 5-blade composite propeller, hydrodynamic motor gearbox and high-integrity seal designed for durability. Its compact footprint suits smaller bows while delivering lateral control for docking. Installation targets owners seeking straightforward owner compatibility and minimal system complexity. Specifications and kit contents match pragmatic needs: clear power rating, cable length and mounting hardware, letting you decide if it fits your vessel profile. Many kayak power pole enthusiasts also prioritize durable mounting hardware to ensure reliable performance in shallow-water setups.
Real-World Performance : Thrust, Noise, and How It Handles Docking
When you push the joystick, the 1.5 kW Lewmar 110TT delivers predictable lateral thrust that makes tight docking moves manageable on small to mid-sized boats; its single 5‑blade composite propeller produces balanced push in both directions and the hydrodynamic gearbox converts motor torque into smooth, immediate response. You’ll notice low vibration levels and muted broadband noise compared with older units, so situational awareness stays high. Thrust is linear with joystick input, letting you feather corrections precisely. Expect measurable battery drain during prolonged use; plan short bursts for maneuvering. Overall, control feel favors confident, independent handling in confined spaces. Consider pairing thruster use with appropriate safety gear such as personal locator beacons and life jackets when operating near shore or in busy marinas.
Installation Essentials : Tunnel, Wiring, Fuse Placement, and Space Requirements
Although the Lewmar 110TT is compact, installing it demands precise tunnel alignment, robust wiring runs, and proper fuse placement to guarantee performance and safety. You’ll cut and fair the thrust tunnel to minimize turbulence and make certain tunnel alignment with the propeller plane; misalignment reduces thrust and increases noise. Route the 7‑meter cable in protected conduits, avoiding sharp bends and heat sources. Position the battery placement close enough to limit voltage drop but far enough to ventilate and secure. Fit the supplied fuse and Blue Sea holder near the battery for clear access. Allow clearance for motor removal and cable servicing. For kayak users, consider selecting anchor ropes and gear designed for safe anchoring to complement a secure thruster installation.
Durability and Maintenance : Seals, Gearbox, Propeller, and Service Tips
Having the tunnel and wiring correctly installed sets you up to focus on long‑term durability and routine service of the 110TT’s sealed gearbox, propeller, and seals. You’ll perform scheduled seal inspection for hairline leaks and abrasion, particularly after grounding or debris strikes. Check the composite five‑blade prop for chips, balance issues, and secure mounting. Service gearbox lubrication per Lewmar intervals: replace or top up with specified marine grease to prevent wear in the hydrodynamic gearbox. Keep fasteners torqued, electrical connectors clean, and record service dates. These steps maximize reliability and preserve your freedom to maneuver. Secure your kayak during transport with proper tie-down straps to prevent damage and reduce strain on installed hardware.
Should You Buy It? Cost, Alternatives, and Final Recommendation
If you need reliable, quiet lateral thrust for docking on a small-to-midsize boat and value proven marine pedigree, the Lewmar 110TT is a strong contender: it delivers 1.5 kW of reversible thrust from a compact, sealed hydrodynamic gearbox with a five‑blade composite prop, includes joystick control and essential installation components, and is backed by Lewmar's long-standing reputation. You should buy it if you prioritize long term reliability, quiet operation, and decent resale value. For cost-conscious buyers do a price comparison with equivalent 1.5–2 kW units; consider buyer incentives, warranty terms, and simpler electric alternatives before deciding. This model pairs well with kayaker-focused accessories like compact electric bilge pumps for added safety on smaller craft, emphasizing the importance of reliable bilge pump equipment.
Some Questions Answered
What Warranty Period Does Lewmar Offer for the 110TT?
Lewmar typically offers a two-year warranty duration for the 110TT, covering manufacturing defects and limited service coverage for parts and workmanship. You’ll need to register the product and retain proof of purchase; normal wear, misuse, or improper installation aren’t covered. Service coverage terms can vary by region and dealer, so check the specific warranty statement from Lewmar or your vendor to confirm exact coverage, claim procedures, and any extended options.
Can the Joystick Be Mounted Remotely From the Helm?
Yes — you can mount the remote joystick away from the helm, but check wiring and signal limits. The Lewmar kit supports a remote joystick location using the supplied 7‑meter cable; wireless mounting isn’t standard, so you’d need an approved wireless adapter or custom install. You’ll want to follow cable routing, fuse placement and manufacturer separation specs to preserve control reliability, safety and warranty compliance while keeping the installation clean and free.
Is the Thruster Compatible With Lithium Battery Systems?
Yes — you can integrate the thruster with lithium systems, but you’ll need proper Lithium integration and Battery management. You should confirm the 12V, 1.5 kW draw and provide appropriate battery capacity, cabling, and a compatible BMS or isolator to handle peak currents. Install a suitable fuse and Blue Sea-type holder, and make certain charging and discharge protection are set to protect battery health and maintain safe, reliable thruster operation.
Are Spare Propellers or Gearbox Parts Available Separately?
Yes — you can buy spare props and gearbox spares separately. You’ll source genuine Lewmar replacement five-blade spare props and specific gearbox spares through Lewmar dealers or authorized distributors. Order parts using the thruster model and serial number to guarantee fitment. You’ll get OEM components that match the hydrodynamic gearbox and composite propeller design, preserving performance, sealing integrity, and quiet operation for reliable docking freedom.
Does the Kit Include Corrosion-Resistant Fasteners for Tunnel Installation?
No, the kit doesn’t include dedicated corrosion-resistant fasteners for tunnel installation. You’ll need to source stainless or marine-grade fastener grades separately. Check for corrosion testing data and select A4/316 or higher where exposed to saltwater. Use compatible coatings and sacrificial anodes as needed. Install per torque specs to protect seals and gearbox. That gives you long-term durability without relying on generic hardware supplied in the kit.
