Putting Wheels On Your Boat Lift: A Step-By-Step Guide

Boat lift wheels are a great way to make installation and removal of your boat lift a much easier process. There are a variety of options available on the market, from retractable wheel kits to axle and hub assemblies, each with its own advantages and considerations. For example, the Smarte Jack Retractable Wheel Kit offers heavy-duty construction and easy installation, while the Axle and Hub Assembly from Craftlander allows for the use of standard 5-bolt automotive tires. When deciding on how to put wheels on your boat lift, it's important to consider factors such as water depth, terrain, and the weight of your boat lift.

Retractable wheels for boat lifts

Smarte Jack Retractable Boat Lift Wheel System

The Smarte Jack Retractable Boat Lift Wheel System is a popular choice among boat owners. This system combines heavy-duty construction with simple installation and operation, making it a valuable tool for boat lift owners. The key features of the Smarte Jack system include:

• Easy installation: The system can be installed by a single person and requires no tools for assembly.
• Adjustable height: It offers 18" to 20" of travel adjustment, ensuring it can accommodate various boat lift models.
• High lifting capacity: With a 700 lb lifting capacity per jack, it can handle most boat weights.
• Compatibility: The Smarte Jack system fits up to 8 3/8" wide spreaders and 1-7/8" and 2" wheel hubs.
• Easy operation: The wheels can be raised or lowered using a cordless drill or wrench with a 9/16" socket.
• Versatility: The system is designed to roll over various surfaces, making it adaptable to different terrains.
• Durability: Constructed from heavy-duty aluminum and steel, ensuring longevity.

Additional Considerations

When considering retractable wheel systems for boat lifts, it is essential to keep a few factors in mind:

• Water depth: If installing in deeper water, ensure the system has sufficient travel distance to reach the lake bottom.
• Maintenance: Some systems may require regular maintenance, especially if left in the water for extended periods, to prevent buildup on moving components.
• Cost: Retractable wheel systems can vary in price, with some high-end options being more expensive.
• Wheel removal: In areas with heavy or frequent wave action, it is recommended to remove the wheels to prevent potential damage to the axle assembly and wheel stop.

Alternative Options

If you are seeking alternative wheel kits for your boat lift, there are several options available:

• Universal Poly-Tire Wheel Kits: These kits, such as those offered by ShoreMaster and Craftlander, feature heavy-duty plastic wheels that can navigate most terrains.
• Axle and Hub Assemblies: This type uses automotive tires and rims, providing greater flexibility in tire choice.
• Spindle and Hub Kits: Similar to axle and hub assemblies, these kits include bearings in the hub assembly for smoother movement.

Wheel kits for boat lifts

Wheel kits are a popular option to assist with the installation and removal of freestanding boat lifts. They are designed to make it easier to move your boat lift in and out of the water, even if the lake bottom is uneven.

There are several wheel kits available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular options:

Smarte Jack™ Retractable Wheel Kit

The Smarte Jack™ boat lift wheel system is a relatively new product that combines heavy-duty construction with easy installation and operation. It has an 18” travel adjustment and a 700lb per side lift capacity, fitting most boat lift models. The attachment brackets are adjustable and designed to attach to the bottom spreader frame of your lift. This system can be operated with a cordless power drill, wrench, or socket, making it quick and easy for a single person to install a boat lift. The wheels can be raised, allowing the boat lift foot pads to rest on the lake bottom, eliminating the need to remove the wheels.

Some considerations for this system include water depth and the potential for build-up on the moving components if left in the water for extended periods. Additionally, the bolts that hold the attachment plates may need to be reversed to prevent interference with the lift cradle.

Universal Poly-Tire Wheel Kits

The universal wheel kit from ShoreMaster™ is designed for smooth movement over most terrain types. It is made from heavy-duty aluminum and comes with adjustable attachment brackets, two 24” heavy-duty plastic wheels, and two axles. The brackets can be left on the framework, allowing for easy installation and removal of the wheels. This system is economically priced compared to other high-end options and has gained popularity among boat lift owners. A similar system is also offered by Craftlander™, featuring 24” heavy-duty wheels and heavy-duty aluminum construction.

Axle and Hub Assemblies

Craftlander™ offers an axle and hub assembly system rated at 1000lbs per unit, designed to navigate any terrain and get your boat lift in and out of the water. This system uses a standard 5-bolt automotive tire and rim, with adjustable brackets to accommodate various extrusion heights and widths. However, automotive tires can add weight and may require spares. Additionally, they are prone to going flat, unlike poly tires used in other systems.

Shore Station™ Spindle and Hub Kit

The Shore Station™ spindle and hub kit is similar to the Craftlander™ product but features bearings in the hub assembly for smoother movement. This system is designed for open-road transport of your lift and can be combined with a tow hitch attachment. While effective for getting your boat lift in and out of the water, there have been instances of grease leakage.

Heavy-duty wheels for boat lifts

One popular option is the Smarte Jack™ Retractable Wheel Kit, which combines heavy-duty construction with easy installation. It offers an 18" travel adjustment and a 700lb per side lift capacity, making it suitable for most boat lift models. The attachment brackets are adjustable and designed to attach to the bottom spreader frame of the lift. This system is set up to be manually adjusted with a socket or wrench, allowing a single person to install the boat lift quickly. However, it's important to consider water depth when using this system, as operation with a drill may be impossible in deeper waters.

Another option is the Universal Poly-Tire Wheel Kit by ShoreMaster™, which is designed for smooth movement over most terrain types. This kit includes two 24" heavy-duty plastic wheels and two axles, along with adjustable brackets that can be left on the framework throughout the season. This system is economically priced compared to other high-end options and has gained popularity among boat lift owners. A similar system is offered by Craftlander™, featuring 24" heavy-duty wheels and a sturdy aluminium construction.

For those seeking an even more robust solution, Craftlander™ also offers an Axle and Hub Assembly system rated at 1000lbs per unit. This system uses standard 5-bolt automotive tires and rims, providing extra stability for navigating challenging terrain. The brackets are adjustable to accommodate different extrusion heights and widths. However, it's important to consider that automotive tires can add weight and may require spares to be kept on hand.

When choosing heavy-duty wheels for your boat lift, it's essential to consider factors such as water depth, terrain type, and the weight of your boat. Additionally, some systems may require additional tools for installation and adjustment, so it's advisable to review the product specifications before making a purchase.

Universal wheel kits for boat lifts

Universal wheel kits are a great way to make installing and removing your boat lift easier. These kits are designed to fit most boat lifts and can be used on a variety of terrain, making them a versatile option for boat owners.

The universal boat lift wheel kit typically comes with two heavy-duty wheels and mounting hardware, including universal mounting plates that fit most lifts. The wheels are made from durable materials such as polyethylene or heavy-duty plastic, and are designed to support a significant amount of weight. For example, the Extreme Max 3005.5248 Boat Lift Wheel Kit features two 25-inch tall wheels with an 8-inch tread surface and an impressive 1,150-pound load capacity per wheel.

In addition to the wheels, the kit includes universal mounting plates that fit a range of frame sizes. The plates are made from thick aluminium or stainless steel, ensuring a strong and secure hold. The kit also includes all the necessary hardware for installation, such as stainless steel bolts, axles, washers, and lock pins.

When purchasing a universal wheel kit, it is important to consider the weight of your boat lift and ensure that the kit you choose has an appropriate load capacity. It is also important to follow any instructions and safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper installation and use.

Overall, universal wheel kits for boat lifts offer a convenient and cost-effective solution for boat owners, making the process of installing and removing their boat lift much easier and faster. With their durable construction and versatile design, these kits are a popular choice for anyone looking to improve the mobility of their boat lift.

Wheel installation for boat lifts

Boat lifts are a great way to keep your vessel safe and secure when not in use, but they can be difficult to move, especially for one person. Installing wheels on your boat lift can make this process much easier, allowing you to roll it into position with ease.

There are several options available for adding wheels to your boat lift, each with its own advantages and considerations. One popular choice is a wheel kit, which typically includes the wheels, axles, and mounting hardware required for installation. These kits can be purchased from various manufacturers, including Smarte Jack, ShoreMaster, Craftlander, Shore Station, Boat Lift Helper, and Extreme Max.

When selecting a wheel kit, it is important to consider the weight capacity of the wheels, the adjustability of the mounting brackets, and the ease of installation and removal. For example, the Smarte Jack Retractable Wheel Kit offers a lift capacity of 700lb per side and adjustable attachment brackets that fit most boat lift models. This system is designed for one-time installation, significantly reducing the time and effort required for future boat lift installations.

Another important consideration is the terrain you will be moving your boat lift across. If you need to navigate rough or uneven terrain, larger wheels, such as those offered by Shore Station and ShoreMaster, may be a better option. These systems use 5-bolt automotive tires, which provide a smoother ride and better clearance. However, automotive tires are heavier and more prone to going flat, so these systems may require some additional maintenance.

Additionally, some boat owners have shared their creative solutions for adding wheels to their boat lifts. One individual shared their experience of installing four small, hard plastic lawnmower-type wheels to one end of their lift. This allowed them to lift one side at a time and roll the lift into position with the help of a small tractor. This approach may be more feasible for those with limited options for purchasing a wheel kit.

When installing wheels on your boat lift, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure that all components are securely attached. It is also important to consider the depth of the water you will be working in, as this may impact the operation of certain wheel systems.

By choosing the appropriate wheel system and following the recommended installation procedures, you can make installing and removing your boat lift a much more manageable task.

Frequently asked questions