Boat Jack Installation: A Step-By-Step Guide

Putting a boat on a new jack is a crucial skill for boat owners to learn, as it is an essential part of boat maintenance and storage. Before attempting this task, 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 must 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. Chocks are used to prevent the boat from moving, and the blocking plan determines the placement and height of the jack stands.

The process of putting a boat on a new jack involves several steps. First, the boat should be parked on level ground to ensure stability and ease of access. All gear and equipment should be removed from the boat to reduce weight and prevent damage. It is also important to drain water from the boat's systems to avoid freezing and potential hazards. The hull should then be cleaned, paying special attention to removing any loose debris and tough stains.

Once the boat is prepared, the jack stands can be positioned at the designated jack points, ensuring they are level and secure. The hull should be cleaned again, and any loose objects removed, before slowly and evenly lifting the boat onto the stands using a hydraulic jack. It is crucial to distribute the weight evenly across the stands and ensure they are placed on solid ground.

After the boat is securely lifted, additional support may be needed to prevent the boat from moving or falling. Boat stands or jack stands can be placed under the hull and adjusted to the correct height to provide stability. Fenders or bumpers can also be used to protect the boat from bumps and scratches. Finally, all loose items on the boat should be secured to prevent shifting during transport or rough waters.

Choosing the right jack stands

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of the jack stands is a critical factor to consider. It is essential to know the approximate weight of your boat and choose stands that can safely accommodate that weight. Always select stands with a higher weight capacity than the weight of your boat to ensure a secure setup.

Height Adjustability

The ability to adjust the height of the jack stands is important, especially if you have a boat with a unique hull design or specific height requirements. Adjustable stands offer versatility and allow you to adapt them to different boat sizes and hull shapes. This adjustability also ensures that your boat is properly supported and balanced, preventing potential accidents or damage.

Stability and Durability

Stability and durability are paramount when choosing jack stands. Look for stands made from high-quality, durable materials such as steel or aluminum, as they offer excellent strength and stability. Consider stands with a wide base or additional support features like bracing or locking mechanisms to enhance stability and minimize the risk of accidents.

Ease of Use and Portability

Ease of use and portability can significantly impact your experience. Opt for jack stands that are user-friendly and easy to set up, dismantle, and transport. Lightweight stands are ideal if you frequently move your boat or stands. Folding stands are also a great choice for their portability and space-saving benefits.

Type of Boat

The type of boat you own will influence the choice of jack stands. For powerboats or motorboats, consider stands with a larger top for more hull contact and a swivel system that adjusts to the hull's angle. Sailboats, on the other hand, require angled stands due to their hull shape. Keel stands are specifically designed to hold the weight of the keel and are another option to consider.

Number of Stands

The number of jack stands needed depends on the size and weight of your boat. As a general guideline, boats up to 30' typically require a minimum of four stands. For longer boats, the rule of thumb is to add one additional pair of stands for every 8 to 10 feet of boat length, taking into account weight, hull shape, beam, and other factors.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right jack stands for your boat, ensuring its stability, safety, and proper support during maintenance, repairs, or storage.

Preparing the boat

Choose a Suitable Work Area:

First, select a spacious work area that provides a level and stable surface. This can be on shore or in a boatyard, but ensure it is level ground to prevent the boat from rolling or rocking. If working on asphalt, place plywood sheets underneath to prevent stands from digging into the surface.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials:

Before starting, ensure you have all the required tools and materials. This includes a good set of sturdy jack stands, a hydraulic jack, chocks, a blocking plan, and the boat owner's manual. The owner's manual is essential as it provides information about the boat's weight, balance, and placement of jack stands.

Remove Gear and Equipment:

Remove all gear and equipment from the boat. This includes loose items like cushions, ropes, life jackets, and electronics. Store these items in a secure location. Also, remove any detachable items like sails, booms, and masts, which can be stored separately or kept on the boat if securely fastened.

Drain Water from the Boat's Systems:

Locate all water tanks, pipes, and hoses, and ensure the electrical system is turned off. Open all faucets and valves to drain the water completely. Don't forget to remove water from the engine's cooling system. Use non-toxic antifreeze to protect the engine and water-dependent parts during storage.

Clean the Hull:

Clean the hull to remove any dirt, grime, or marine growth that has accumulated. Use a scraper or brush to remove loose debris, then scrub with a specialized hull cleaner to tackle any tough stains or buildup. Rinse the hull thoroughly to remove any remaining residue.

Block the Boat:

Position the boat on a level surface and refer to the boat's manual to identify the blocking points and the number of stands required. Place blocks underneath the keel, ensuring they are level and can support the boat's weight. Then, position the jack stands at the designated blocking points on either side of the keel, adjusting them snugly against the hull.

Adjust the Stands:

Ensure the stands are positioned correctly and are snug against the hull. They should be placed at strong points like bulkheads, engine beds, and cross members. Check that the stands can support the weight of the boat and move them if necessary. Adjust the stands so that they are level and secure, tightening all bolts and screws.

Add Additional Support:

For added safety, provide additional support to the boat. Use boat stands or jack stands under the hull, adjusting them to the correct height. You can also use fenders or bumpers to protect the boat from bumps and scratches. Secure any loose items inside the boat to prevent shifting during transport or rough waters.

By following these steps, you will have your boat prepared for the installation of a new jack, ensuring a stable and secure vessel during storage or maintenance.

Lifting the boat

Lifting a boat is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety and avoid damage. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to lift a boat, specifically focusing on the lifting process:

Planning and Preparation:

Before initiating the lift, it is crucial to gather the necessary tools and materials. This includes a sturdy set of jack stands, a hydraulic jack, chocks to prevent the boat from moving, and a blocking plan. Additionally, the boat owner's manual is essential for determining the boat's weight, balance, and the placement of jack stands to prevent structural damage. It is also important to ensure that the jack stands are rated for the weight of the boat. Traditional jack stands are suitable for boats weighing less than 20,000 pounds, while heavier boats may require stackable jack stands.

Positioning the Boat and Jack Stands:

The boat should be positioned on a level and stable surface, preferably on shore or in a boatyard. Refer to the boat's manual or contact the manufacturer to identify the designated blocking points and the required number of stands based on the boat's size and weight. Place blocks underneath the keel, ensuring they are level and can bear the boat's weight. Then, position the jack stands at the blocking points on either side of the keel, adjusting them snugly against the hull.

Before lifting, ensure the hull is clean and free of any loose objects. You may also consider using boat blocks for additional support and stability. When ready, slowly and evenly lift the boat using the hydraulic jack until it is high enough to place the jack stands. If your boat has a keel or skeg, ensure it is adequately supported. Secure the boat to the stands using straps or ropes, tightening them as much as possible to prevent wobbling.

Adjustments and Stability:

Adjust the jack stands to ensure they are snug against the hull, preventing any wobbling or shifting. Verify that the stands are positioned correctly and can support the boat's weight. If needed, add extra supports for enhanced stability. Double-check that all bolts and screws are tightened and in good condition to avoid accidents during transport or storage.

Additional Support:

To further secure the boat, consider adding boat stands or jack stands underneath the hull, adjusting them to the correct height. Additionally, use fenders or bumpers to protect the boat from bumps and scratches. Ensure that all loose items on the boat, such as chairs and equipment, are properly secured to prevent shifting or damage during transport or rough waters.

Safety Precautions:

Throughout the lifting process, prioritize safety. Always block the boat properly and use the trailer's jack to lift it to the desired height. Ensure the trailer is positioned on a level surface before lifting. When using jack stands, distribute the boat's weight evenly across them and place them on solid ground. Secure all gear and equipment onboard to prevent shifting or damage.

By following these detailed steps, you can effectively and safely lift a boat, whether for maintenance, repairs, or storage during the off-season.

Positioning the jack stands

Firstly, it is important to identify the proper weight capacity of the jack stands. Ensure that the stands you choose are rated to bear the weight of your boat. Traditional jack stands are suitable for boats weighing less than 20,000 pounds, while heavier boats may require stackable jack stands.

Before positioning the jack stands, refer to the boat's manual or contact the manufacturer to identify the designated jack points or blocking points on the hull. These points are designed to bear the weight of the boat safely. It is essential to position the stands at these designated points to avoid structural damage.

Now, carefully place the jack stands at the identified points on the hull. Ensure that the stands are perpendicular to the hull and apply pressure securely without causing any damage to the boat. Adjust the stands as needed to ensure they are level and firmly in contact with the hull.

For smaller boats, four to six jack stands are typically required, while larger boats may need more. In addition to the jack stands, it is recommended to use boat blocks or wooden cribbing to provide additional support and stability. Place the blocks or cribbing underneath the keel, ensuring they are level and can bear the weight of the boat.

Once the jack stands and blocks are in place, carefully lift the boat using a hydraulic jack until it is high enough to take the weight off the trailer or cradle. Ensure that the weight is evenly distributed across the stands and blocks. If your boat has a keel or skeg, make sure it is adequately supported as well.

Finally, secure the boat to the stands using straps or ropes. Tie them as tightly as possible to prevent any wobbling or shifting. Remember, properly securing your boat on the jack stands is critical to avoid potential damage or accidents.

By following these detailed instructions, you can ensure that your boat is safely and securely positioned on the jack stands, ready for maintenance, repairs, or storage during the off-season.

Adjusting and securing the boat

Positioning the 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. Position the jack stands at these designated support points to ensure the stability and safety of your boat. Make sure the jack stands are perpendicular to the hull and apply the necessary pressure without causing any damage to the boat.

Adjusting the Stands:

Once the jack stands are in position, carefully adjust them to ensure they are snug against the hull of the boat. You want to avoid any wobbling or shifting during transport or while the boat is on the ground. Make sure the stands are properly aligned and positioned in areas that can adequately support the weight of the boat. If needed, add extra supports or move the stands to more suitable locations.

Checking and Tightening Fastenings:

Double-check that all the bolts and screws of the jack stands are tightened securely and in good condition. It is crucial to ensure that nothing comes loose during transport, as this could lead to accidents or damage to your boat. Take the time to inspect and tighten all fastenings to save yourself potential headaches in the future.

Adding Additional Support:

Depending on the size and weight of your boat, consider adding extra support to prevent it from moving or falling over. You can use boat stands or jack stands under the hull and adjust them to the correct height. Additionally, fenders or bumpers can be placed along the sides of the boat or near potential contact points for added protection. Make sure all loose items on the boat are properly secured to avoid any shifting or damage during transport or rough waters.

Final Checks:

Before leaving your boat unattended, it is essential to perform final checks to ensure its security. Verify that the boat is stable and level, and all stands and supports are firmly in place. Check that the weight of the boat is evenly distributed across the stands and that they are positioned on solid ground. Ensure that all gear and equipment onboard are securely fastened to prevent any shifting or damage. By taking these precautionary measures, you can be confident that your boat is secure and protected.

Frequently asked questions