Putting A Boat On Jack Stands: Step-By-Step Guide

Putting a boat on jack stands is an essential step in boat maintenance and storage. It involves placing the boat on stands to provide support while it is out of the water. This process is crucial to prevent damage to the hull and other underwater parts of the boat. When placing a boat on jack stands, it is important to consider the weight and size of the boat to choose the appropriate stands. The stands should be placed on stable and firm ground, with the weight distributed evenly across them. Additionally, it is crucial to follow safety precautions, such as using safety chains to secure the stands and ensuring that the boat is stable and secure before leaving it unattended.

Gather the right materials

To put a boat on jack stands, you will need to gather the right materials to ensure the safety of the boat and the people involved. Here is a list of the essential materials you will need:

Jack Stands

The jack stands or boat stands are crucial for supporting your boat when it is out of the water. Choose jack stands that are rated for the weight of your boat. Traditional jack stands can support boats weighing less than 20,000 pounds. For heavier boats, stackable jack stands or boat stands may be required. If you are using boat stands, it is recommended to have at least six stands for stability.

Hydraulic Jack

A hydraulic jack is necessary for lifting the boat and placing it onto the jack stands. Choose a hydraulic jack that has the capacity to lift the weight of your boat.

Chocks

Chocks are essential to prevent your boat from moving or rolling when it is on the jack stands. They help keep the boat stable and secure.

Blocking Plan

A blocking plan is crucial for determining the placement and height of the jack stands. It involves positioning the jack stands at specific points to provide the necessary support for your boat. Refer to your boat owner's manual for guidance on blocking points and stand placement to avoid structural damage.

Boat Owner's Manual

The boat owner's manual is essential as it provides vital information about the boat's weight, balance, and placement of jack stands. It will help you understand the specific requirements and guidelines for your boat, ensuring a safe and proper setup.

Wooden Boards and Plywood

Wooden boards for the base of the jack stands will provide a stable and sturdy foundation. Additionally, plywood can be used beneath each leg of the jack stands to prevent them from sinking into soft or loose ground.

Sturdy Metal Poles and Rubber Caps

Metal poles provide strength and support for the boat stands, ensuring they can withstand the weight of the boat. Rubber caps or pads on the top of the poles protect the boat's hull and provide a secure grip.

Safety Chains

Safety chains are used to secure the jack stands and prevent them from sliding or moving. They provide additional stability and safety, especially in high winds. The chains should be at least 3/16-inch thick and placed in a specific manner to ensure the stands don't slip.

Boat Trailer

If you plan to transport your boat, a boat trailer is necessary. Ensure it is compatible with your vehicle and equipped with safety features like lighting kits and security chains.

Other Tools and Equipment

Other useful items include a hitch compatible with your vehicle, a spare tire, and basic tools for any adjustments or minor repairs.

Remember, the weight, size, and specific characteristics of your boat will influence the choice of materials. Always refer to the boat owner's manual and seek guidance from boating professionals or experts if needed.

Position the boat on level ground

Positioning your boat on level ground is crucial before you begin the process of putting it on jack stands. This ensures your boat is secured properly, preventing it from rolling or rocking. It also makes it easier to access and focus on the preparation process.

When selecting a location, choose a solid and reasonably flat surface. Even asphalt can give way, especially in hot temperatures, so it's important to consider the ground type. Place the jack stands on plywood bases to distribute the load and prevent them from settling. This is especially important if the ground is loose in any way.

If you're using a trailer, make sure it is parked on level ground. This will ensure your boat is secured properly and prevent any accidental movement during transport.

Before positioning your boat, it's also important to refer to the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the correct placement of jack stands and blocking points. This will help you avoid structural damage and ensure the safety of both the boat and yourself.

By taking the time to position your boat on level ground and following these guidelines, you'll create a safe and stable foundation for maintenance, repairs, or storage.

Place blocks under the keel

Placing blocks under the keel is a critical step in "blocking" your boat. This process involves supporting the boat on land, either after removing it from a trailer or during maintenance and repairs. Keel blocking ensures that the boat's weight is distributed properly, preventing damage and providing stability.

To begin, you'll need to select the appropriate blocks for your boat's keel. Concrete blocks with wood on top are commonly used, but specialised keel stands, also known as "poppets", are more convenient. These keel stands have threaded rods that allow for easy adjustment. As a general rule, use one stand for every 10 feet of keel length, with a minimum of two stands to level the boat fore and aft.

Once you've selected the appropriate number of stands, place them under the keel, ensuring they are level and can bear the weight of the boat. The keel takes all the weight, so it must be supported first. You may need to adjust the height of the stands to ensure they are level and able to bear the weight evenly.

After placing the keel stands, you can add additional support by positioning adjustable stands every eight feet along the boat's length. These stands should be placed as far out from the keel as possible, generally tucked into the chine. The base of the stand should be parallel to the waterline. Adjust the height of these stands so that the pads are secure against the hull and the boat is level.

To ensure the safety of your boat, it is crucial to use blocking points or jack stands recommended by the boat manufacturer. Improper blocking can lead to gel coat stress cracks, damaged stringers, and other issues. Additionally, always place the stands on a solid and reasonably flat surface. Even asphalt can give way, especially in hot weather.

Finally, remember to use safety chains to secure pairs of stands together, preventing them from sliding. Place plywood pads under the stands' feet to prevent sinking and ensure the ground underneath is stable. By following these steps, you can effectively support the keel of your boat, providing a stable foundation for maintenance, repairs, or storage.

Position the jack stands

Positioning jack stands is a crucial step in ensuring your boat is stable and secure. Here's a detailed guide on how to position jack stands:

Firstly, identify the support points on the hull of your boat. These are typically strong points such as bulkheads, engine beds, and cross members. It's important to refer to your boat's manual or consult the manufacturer to identify the correct support points. Once you've located the support points, position the jack stands accordingly.

When placing the jack stands, ensure they are perpendicular to the hull. This alignment is crucial to applying the necessary pressure to support the boat without causing any damage. The number of jack stands required will depend on the size and weight of your boat. As a general rule, use at least four stands for powerboats and five stands for sailboats, including one with a v-shaped head to support the bow.

Before raising the boat, ensure the jack stands are placed on solid, level ground. If the ground is soft or uneven, use dunnage or plywood bases to provide a stable surface and prevent the stands from sinking or settling. Place the stands an even distance apart along the boat, with the adjustment screw positioned at a 90-degree angle to the hull.

For boats with rigging, add an extra set of jack stands to provide additional stability in heavy winds. If your boat has a longer keel, pull the security chain below the keel and up on the other side. Utilize large keel stands or wooden keel supports at the front and back of the keel to ensure a stable base.

Once the jack stands are in position, adjust the height so that they are snug against the hull. The stands should be perpendicular to the centreline of the boat and apply pressure evenly. Ensure the stands are secure and unable to slide or shift. You can use safety chains to connect pairs of stands, providing additional stability and preventing them from sliding out.

By carefully positioning and adjusting the jack stands, you can be confident that your boat is stable and secure, allowing you to perform any necessary maintenance or repairs safely. Remember to always refer to your boat's manual and follow safety guidelines when working with jack stands.

Lift the boat

Lifting a boat onto jack stands is a crucial step in preparing your boat for storage or maintenance. Before attempting to lift the boat, it is important to gather the necessary materials, including a set of sturdy jack stands, a hydraulic jack, chocks, and a blocking plan. The jack stands should be rated for the weight of the boat, with traditional jack stands supporting boats under 20,000 pounds, and stackable jack stands required for heavier boats.

To lift the boat, start by positioning the jack stands at the designated jack points, ensuring they are level and secure. Clean the hull of the boat and remove any loose objects. You may also want to consider using boat blocks to provide additional support and stability. Once everything is in place, slowly and evenly lift the boat using the hydraulic jack until it is high enough to place onto the jack stands. Take your time during this process and be sure to double-check the stability of the stands before leaving the boat unattended.

When lifting the boat, it is important to follow proper safety precautions. Ensure that the boat is securely fastened to the jack stands using straps or ropes, and that the weight is evenly distributed across the stands. Additionally, make sure that all gear and equipment onboard are securely fastened to prevent shifting or damage during the lift. If your boat has a keel or skeg, be sure to provide additional support for it as well.

By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can safely and effectively lift your boat onto jack stands, ensuring its stability and protection during storage or maintenance.

Frequently asked questions