Attaching Dock Wheels To A Boat Lift: Easy Steps

Boat lift wheel kits are a popular option for assisting with the installation and removal of a freestanding boat lift. They are specifically designed for use with RGC® boat lifts, with wheel kits that include mounting brackets that attach to the boat lift. The brackets are made of welded galvanized steel, and the wheels are made of heavy-duty polyethylene. The Smarte Jack™ Retractable Wheel Kit is another system that combines heavy-duty construction with easy installation and operation, providing a useful tool for boat lift owners. The Shore-End Wheel Kit from ShoreMaster is also an option for those looking to easily roll their dock in and out of the water.

Wheel kits for boat lifts

Wheel kits are a popular option for assisting with the installation and removal of a freestanding boat lift. They are designed to make it easier to move your boat lift in and out of the water. The kits typically include wheels, mounting brackets, and hardware for attachment.

The Smarte Jack Retractable Boat Lift Wheel Kit is one of the newest systems on the market. It features heavy-duty construction, adjustable attachment brackets, and a 700lb per side lift capacity. The system can be operated with a cordless power drill, wrench, or socket, and allows for easy height level adjustment.

The Lift-Ease Wheel Kit by Hewitt is another option that offers versatility and durability across various terrains. It includes two 27" adjustable wheels and a full-length mounting bracket for added stability. The built-in brakes prevent unwanted movement, ensuring your boat lift stays securely in place.

The PolyDock Products website provides a step-by-step guide for attaching a jet ski lift to your dock, which includes sliding pipes into pipe brackets and driving them into the ground using a post pounder.

When choosing a wheel kit for your boat lift, consider factors such as weight capacity, ease of use, and compatibility with your boat lift model. It is also important to follow safety guidelines and properly maintain your equipment to ensure longevity.

Stationary vs floating boat lifts

Stationary boat lifts are typically used for sites with low water fluctuation and less than eight feet of water. They are relatively easy to install, especially for smaller models and PWCs. Stationary lifts are also known as bottom-standing lifts, which are installed adjacent to the dock and supported by their own legs resting on the lake bottom. They are a popular choice when the bottom is firm and even, and the water depth is between two and nine feet. If the bottom is soft or uneven, it may be challenging to install the lift securely. Bottom-standing lifts can be raised and lowered manually by turning a large wheel, or by an electric motor. In cold climates, they will need to be removed from the water during winter and reinstalled in the spring.

On the other hand, floating boat lifts are more versatile and can accommodate water level changes. They are often used for shorelines with a rapid drop-off and docks with over eight feet of water. Floating lifts support the boat on metal or plastic chambers filled with air. The chambers are flooded to sink below the surface and release the boat, and they stay submerged while the boat is in use. When the boat returns, electric pumps displace the water with air, causing the chambers to float and lift the boat above the water surface. Floating lifts usually require a power source to function. They are commonly found in larger marinas with floating docks and in freshwater impoundments where lake levels can vary seasonally. One disadvantage of floating lifts is that they are exposed to marine growth and may need occasional cleaning.

Choosing the right boat lift wheel system

When choosing the right boat lift wheel system, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is essential to understand the different types of boat lifts available and their unique features and benefits. The most common types of boat lifts include floating lifts, standing lifts, hydraulic lifts, pile-mounted lifts, shore-mounted lifts, and cable lifts.

The type of boat lift you choose will depend on factors such as the size and weight of your boat, waterfront depth and fluctuations, and your specific needs and preferences. For example, if you have a small boat with a wet weight of 2,000 lbs. or less, you may want to consider a small craft lift. On the other hand, if you have a larger boat, you may need a lift with a higher weight capacity, such as a hydraulic lift or a pile-mounted lift.

Another factor to consider is the ease of use and maintenance of the boat lift. Hydraulic lifts, for instance, offer quiet and smooth lifting at the push of a button, while manual lifts may require more effort but are typically more affordable. Additionally, you should also consider the construction material of the boat lift to ensure durability. Marine-grade aluminum is a popular choice as it is designed to withstand the elements and provide long-lasting performance.

When choosing a boat lift wheel system, it is also important to keep in mind the weight capacity of the wheels, the ease of installation and removal, and the compatibility of the wheel kit with your specific boat lift model. Some wheel kits, such as the Smarte Jack Retractable Boat Lift Wheel Kit, are designed to fit most free-standing boat lift models and offer heavy-duty construction with easy installation and operation.

Lastly, consider the terrain you will be using the boat lift on and choose a wheel kit that can navigate it smoothly. For instance, the ShoreMaster Universal Poly-Tire Wheel Kit is designed to move smoothly over most terrain and features 24” heavy-duty plastic wheels.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right boat lift wheel system that suits your specific needs and ensures a safe and enjoyable boating experience.

How to build a boat lift

Building a boat lift requires careful planning, compliance with local regulations, and consideration of your boat's weight and dimensions. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build a boat lift:

Understanding the Basics of Boat Lift Construction:

• Pilings: Vertical support elements that serve as the boat lift's foundation, anchoring to the lake or seabed.
• Structural framework: Made from corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum or galvanized steel.
• Lift mechanism: Must support the boat's size and weight; options include cable, cradle, or hydraulic lifts.
• Guides and bunks: Support the hull and guide the boat onto the lift during lifting or lowering.
• Decking: Stabilizes the platform for accessing the boat, using materials like plastic or marine-grade wood.

Pre-Construction Planning:

• Evaluate water conditions: Consider water depth, tidal fluctuations, and the type of lake bottom or seabed.
• Design your boat lift: Choose between a stationary or floating boat lift, considering shoreline conditions, water access, and local regulations.
• Secure permits and legal requirements: Research and obtain necessary permits, including shoreline development, waterfront structure, and dredging permits.

Building a Boat Lift:

• Stationary boat lifts: Establish a solid foundation with pilings driven into the seabed. Assemble the lift mechanism with proper alignment and tension in the cables.
• Floating boat lifts: Assemble sections to create a stable platform, then attach the lifting system with winches or hoists. Add buoyant materials and adjustable floats or legs for stability.

Finishing Touches and Quality Assurance:

• Apply protective coatings to guard against wear and tear, especially in saltwater.
• Inspect the lift's operation, safety features, and smooth movement.
• Conduct regular maintenance to ensure long-term performance.

Accessories:

• Canopies: Protect the vessel from the elements.
• Guides: Simplify launching or parking.
• Lights: Increase visibility for night use.
• Solar panels: Provide an alternative power source for battery-powered lifts.

Boat lift accessories

Wheel Kits

Wheel kits are a popular choice for boat lift accessories, as they assist with the installation and removal of boat lifts. They are designed to help move your boat lift into and out of the water with ease. Different wheel kits cater to varying weight capacities of boat lifts, so it is important to select the appropriate kit for your boat's needs. For example, the BLW2045 wheel kit is suitable for 2,000 to 4,500-pound boat lifts, while the BLW5060 kit is designed for 5,000 to 6,000-pound lifts.

Solar Kits

Solar kits are a great way to harness renewable energy for your boat lift. These kits can provide power for various functions, such as lighting or charging batteries.

Canopies and Covers

Canopies and covers are essential for protecting your boat from the elements. They can shield your boat from rain, sunlight, and debris, helping to maintain its condition over time.

Motors

Boat lift motors are crucial for operating your boat lift efficiently. They can be powered by electricity or hydraulics, and they enable the smooth raising and lowering of your boat.

Guides and Stops

Guides and stops assist with the precise positioning of your boat on the lift. They help ensure that your boat is securely positioned and prevent any unwanted movement during the lifting or lowering process.

Bird Deterrent Systems

Bird deterrent systems are important for keeping birds away from your boat and lift mechanism. Birds and their droppings can cause damage and corrosion, so these systems help maintain the cleanliness and integrity of your boat and lift.

Frequently asked questions