What a typical service visit covers
- Cables: inspect for broken strands, kinks and corrosion; check that they wrap evenly on the drum; adjust so the cradle lifts level.
- Drive: lubricate gearboxes and bearings as the manufacturer recommends; listen for grinding; check for oil leaks.
- Electrical: test the GFCI, switch or remote and the limit switch; look for corroded connections and damaged wiring.
- Structure: check bolts, brackets, beams, guide posts and bunks; note anything loose, cracked or badly corroded.
- Report: a written note of what was done and anything that should be planned for next.
Why twice a year?
Many owners on the Gulf Coast schedule one visit in late spring, before hurricane season, and one in the fall or winter. Lifts that run daily, sit in strong current or carry a boat near the lift’s capacity may need more frequent attention. Your manufacturer’s manual is the best guide for intervals.
Simple things you can do between visits
- Rinse the lift with fresh water when you rinse the boat.
- Watch the cables as the lift runs and stop if anything looks or sounds wrong.
- Keep the motor and gearbox covers in place.
- Don’t exceed the lift’s rated capacity.
More detail in boat lift cables and motors basics.