After a hurricane, it’s crucial to ensure that your boat lift is safe and secure before resuming its
use. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what you should do to check and secure your boat lift:
1. Ensure Personal Safety First
- Wait for Official Clearance: Do not return to your property until local authorities have
declared it safe. - Wear Protective Gear: Equip yourself with appropriate safety gear, including gloves, boots,
and protective eyewear.
2. Initial Visual Inspection
- Structural Integrity: Check for any visible signs of damage to the boat lift structure, such as
bent or broken beams, loose bolts, or cracked welds. - Surrounding Area: Inspect the dock and surrounding area for debris that may have caused
damage to the lift.
3. Detailed Component Inspection
- Cables and Pulleys: Examine the cables for fraying, kinks, or broken strands. Check pulleys
for damage and ensure they are properly aligned and rotating smoothly. - Electrical Systems: Inspect all electrical connections and components for water damage,
corrosion, or dislodged wires. Ensure the power is still disconnected before doing this. - Hydraulic Systems: If your lift uses a hydraulic system, check for leaks, damaged hoses, or
malfunctioning components.
4. Operational Test
- Power Restoration: Once the electrical inspection is complete and no damage is found,
restore power to the lift. - Test Lift Movement: Carefully operate the lift without a boat to ensure it moves smoothly up
and down. Listen for any unusual noises that could indicate a problem. - Weight Test: Gradually increase the load on the lift, starting with lighter items before
attempting to lift the boat. Monitor the lift’s performance closely during this test.
5. Check Boat Placement and Securing Mechanisms
- Boat Alignment: Ensure the boat is properly aligned and seated on the lift. Misalignment
can cause stress on the lift components. - Securing Straps: Verify that all securing straps or tie-downs are intact and have not been
damaged by the storm.
6. Documentation and Professional Assessment
- Document Damage: Take photographs and detailed notes of any damage found. This will
be useful for insurance claims and professional assessments. - Contact Professionals: If you discover significant damage or if you are unsure about the
lift’s condition, contact Golden Boat Lifts or a certified marine technician for a thorough
inspection and necessary repairs.
7. Maintenance and Prevention
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply lubrication to moving parts such as pulleys, gears, and
bearings to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. - Replace Damaged Components: Replace any damaged cables, pulleys, or structural
components immediately to avoid further issues. - Review and Update Hurricane Plan: Reflect on the effectiveness of your pre-hurricane
preparations and make any necessary adjustments to your hurricane plan.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your boat lift is safe and secure after a hurricane,
minimizing the risk of further damage and ensuring the safety of your vessel. Golden Boat Lifts
is here to assist with any questions or concerns you may have about your boat lift’s condition
and maintenance.
For more information or assistance, contact Golden Boat Lifts at
https://goldenboatlifts.com/download-brochure/
The Golden Difference
At Golden, we pride ourselves in being the innovators of our industry. We have even prepped
your lifts to be operational after a power outage, with just a cordless drill. This ensures safety
and accessibility no matter the conditions.
Disclaimer:
This guide is provided by Golden Boat Lifts as a reference to help you prepare your boat lift for
a hurricane and to inspect it after a storm. However, Golden Boat Lifts is not responsible for any
damage to your boat, your boat lift, or any personal injuries that may occur during a hurricane
or as a result of following this guide.
Hurricanes are unpredictable and can cause severe damage despite the best preparations. It
is important to use your judgment and consult with professionals when needed. Always
prioritize personal safety and follow official guidelines and directives issued by local
Authorities.
For any specific concerns or questions regarding the maintenance and repair of your boat lift,
please contact a certified marine technician or Golden Boat Lifts directly.