Upgrading Furlex 400S to 400E: Power Meets Precision for Offshore Sailing

If your yacht is equipped with the Furlex 400S, you already benefit from one of Seldén’s most robust manual furling systems—designed for yachts up to 20 tonnes displacement. But when sail handling becomes physically demanding or you're sailing short-handed, upgrading to the Furlex 400E offers a transformative leap in convenience, safety, and control.

With push-button operation, a powerful motor, and seamless integration, the 400E retrofit brings electric precision to serious offshore cruisers and passagemakers.

🔧 What Does the Upgrade Involve?

Upgrading from the 400S to the 400E is a modular retrofit that retains your existing foil extrusion and forestay. The process replaces the manual furling components with an electric motor unit and control system—no sail recutting or forestay replacement required.

✅ Components Replaced:

• Manual furling drum
• Furling line and line guard
• Tack assembly

✅ Components Added:

• Electric motor unit (48V drive)
• DC/DC converter (for 12V or 24V systems)
• Control pack (Genoa, Cutter, or SEL-Bus integration)
• Optional SEL-Bus network for advanced control and diagnostics

This upgrade is compatible with Furlex 400S systems produced from 1997 onward, including current-generation models2.

⚙️ Key Features of the Furlex 400E

• Push-button operation from the cockpit
• Two-speed motor for precision reefing or fast furling
• Low power consumption with sleep mode when idle
• Corrosion-resistant composite motor housing
• Compatible with Sta-Lok or swaged terminals
• Available for forestay diameters of 10 mm, 12 mm, or 14 mm

• Retrofit-ready for existing Furlex 400S or 400TD systems

📐 Technical Specifications

🧰 Installation Overview

Installation is best performed by a professional rigger or marine electrician, especially given the power requirements and load-bearing components. The process typically involves:

1. Removing the manual drum and line guard
2. Installing the electric motor unit
3. Connecting the DC/DC converter to onboard power
4. Mounting the control pack in the cockpit
5. Testing and calibrating the system

The upgrade is available as a complete kit, and additional accessories may be required depending on your yacht’s layout2.

🛠️ Ideal Candidates for the Upgrade

• Bluewater cruising yachts (50–65 ft)
• Expedition and offshore vessels
• Liveaboard sailors seeking cockpit control
• Short-handed or aging crews
• Boats with existing Furlex 400S or 400TD systems

🧾 Final Thoughts

Upgrading from Furlex 400S to 400E is a powerful step toward modern, stress-free sailing. With push-button control, high-torque performance, and seamless integration, the 400E delivers unmatched convenience and confidence for large yachts navigating demanding conditions.

Whether you're preparing for transoceanic passages or simply want to make life easier on deck, this upgrade transforms your sailing experience—bringing electric precision to one of the most critical systems aboard.