The important function of a boat lift service is to keep your boat away from corrosion and safely out of the water to avoid any kind of damage to your boat so that you can use it and have a joy ride every day. But whether you're an old salt or a newbie for boat ownership your boat lift must be serviced regularly. Maintaining a boat lift in top shape isn't exactly rocket science, but there are some key components to watch, such as cables and pulleys.
Video Source
These components are handy to know to maintain properly preferred functioning lifts with their periodic maintenance. Boat lift service involves taking the actions to prepare your equipment for the winter, an important step in ensuring longevity and preventing expensive repairs.
If you love boating, having a boat lift can change the story! That keeps your boat from being exposed to water, a key contributor to corrosion and other damage. Boats that are left in the water for years grow algae on the hull and barnacles that can be a pain and expensive to scrape off. For these reasons, a well-operating boat lift will keep your boat out of harm's way.
The second benefit of a boat lift service is the level of convenience it provides. Whether getting your boat in for a weekend or preparing it for the off-season, a working lift saves you time and trouble. However, just like any other equipment, boat lifts also require routine maintenance for their smooth operation. Neglecting this can lead to unforeseen breakdowns and costly repairs that will cut into your time on the water.
This is the basis for having the boat lift operate properly. One of the biggest things to monitor is the winch cables. Those cables support your boat so they are always under stress. On average, the average lifespan of the winch cable is about five years of normal use but this duration can vary depending on how frequently the lift is used and the amount of load the lift supports. Periodically checking your cables is fundamental to make sure your cables last long and monthly is the best approach. Look for stripes in the strands, flat spots, rust spots, or smashed areas. These are possible weak points that may fail in the cable.
Areas like the pulleys of the boat lift that require care are one of those areas. Pulleys distribute the weight of your boat and help the lift operate smoothly. Soils can become worn through friction or exposure to the elements. If you have a strong squealing or grinding noise when moving your boat lift another sign that your pulleys need to be lubricated or replaced. If these issues aren't solved, this could bring more harm and impact the lift functionality.
Aside from these parts, the complete lift structure should stay in check. Inspect the frame for rust, corrosion, or cracks, especially if your lift is exposed to salt water. So yes, fresh water will scrub the lifting body more frequently to remove salt and other debris that will erode. The metal parts may be covered with protective varnish to extend their use and prevent rust.
Winterization is an important part of protecting your equipment from getting damaged and making sure you can use it when you're ready to get back in the water. The most important thing is where you will put the hoist, batteries, and motor. While the hoist itself can remain out in winter conditions, take a few extra measures to safeguard the motor and batteries.
If moisture can not escape from the motor, it can cause electrical failure or corrosion of the motor. We can never use a garbage bag to cover the motor, it's a moisture trap, not a shield. Instead, buy a breathable waterproof cover for the boat lift motor. That will clear for better protection, plus keep the engine good over the winter.
In the winter period, batteries must be removed from the lift and placed in a warm and dry place. Cold weather can affect battery life and efficiency. Store batteries clean, fully charged, and in a cool, dry area. Keep battery chargers in on them to keep them healthy all winter long.
It's also worth inspecting your boat lift ahead of winter. Check for loose bolts, worn parts, or other issues that might worsen as temperatures drop. Addressing these challenges proactively will ensure that when you are ready to lift.
Some maintenance you can do yourself as a boat owner, but sometimes it is better to call in the professionals. A qualified boat lift technician knows what to look for and has the tools to do a good inspection and repair things you might have overlooked. They might also provide you with some helpful tips on keeping your lift operational and even recommend upgrades or modifications to help improve its efficiency.
Most will also repair cables, lubricate the pulleys, and service the motor. They will also inspect the wiring and electric components of your lift and ensure that all functions well. This means having someone trained in handling it so it works appropriately, it may require money, but hiring someone as referenced above saves you time, the person will take care of your boat lift.
Here are some of the top reasons you should perform regular maintenance on your boat lift. It protects your equipment, first, but more so, it will have a lower possibility of failing, thus shielding your boat in case of an accident or damage, if the lift is well kept up. Regular maintenance also saves you money in the long run because minor problems can be identified before they can turn into bigger problems.
Regular boat lift service also enhances resale value. Having a documented maintenance history can make your boat lift more saleable if you choose to sell it in the future. It's a stamp of the care and attention you've given to your equipment, and that can lead to a higher resale price.
Ultimately, proper boat lift maintenance is good for your boat too. When you know your lift is in excellent condition, you can focus your attention on having a great time out on the water without the worry of a mechanical breakdown. It's a small investment of time and effort that pays dividends in the long run.
If you own a watercraft, you just have to have a boat lift service. From keeping your boat free from corrosion and damage to ensuring your lift will deliver many years of service, regular maintenance is key to everything running smoothly. Preserving well means preventing past reflection.
.