You don’t think verses 40 and 41 indicate repentance?
Nope: mere stating of the facts.
I think that it is not the words spoken by the malefactor that indicate repentance. It is the condition of his heart which Jesus clearly saw. One word is of utmost importance though, the act of called Jesus "Lord."
Jesus being God, and having the nature and abilities of God, could see into this man's heart. If He didn't see genuine belief and repentance He never would have promised him that he would be with Jesus in paradise.
The New Testament make it clear that without belief and repentance salvation isn't possible.
Old Mountain Man, it is not a work. It's is a revelation/understanding/acceptance from within and a decision