Purchasing a boat lift is a big decision. And it can be one of the best choices you make for your boating needs. There are plenty of reasons to choose a new boat lift. However, for many people, a used boat lift is a more practical option.
So, whether it’s for budgetary reasons or some other extenuating circumstances, we want to help you with the process. Here are a few important considerations for you to think about before deciding which option is right for you.
3 Things to Look For in a Used Boat Lift
The first thing you should do when looking for a used boat hoist is to determine your wants and needs in purchasing a boat lift. Here are some tips about the basics to help you choose the right lift for you.
1. Sturdiness
When shopping for a used boat lift, one of the most important features you are looking for is how sturdy the lift is. You want one that is engineered for both strength and durability. Inspect it thoroughly for rusty components.
In most cases, if it’s at all possible you will want to try to purchase a used boatlift with some sort of a guarantee. This may be more difficult to do when buying from an individual. However, many boat lift manufacturers and dealers will have used boat hoists for sale besides their new products. We recommend starting here. A dealer can help you determine the lift’s condition and sturdiness and may be able to offer a limited guarantee.
If the boat hoist you’re inspecting is on solid ground, there shouldn’t be exaggerated movement in the frame. Put your hand on the frame and push on it. Some slight movement is normal. However, if the frame is wobbly, there may be structural issues that could compromise your boat.
2. Dependability
When purchasing big-ticket items, we all want to make smart choices that work out well. We hate buying used cars that break down. It’s incredibly frustrating to do your research and spend a chunk of money, only to have the product fail and fall short of our expectations.
Of course, when buying used equipment there is a certain amount of risk inherent in the decision. But one of the best ways to mitigate risk is to buy quality. A used boat lift of high quality is still a better choice than saving money on a mediocre brand. And quality means dependability, among other things.
A good quality boat lift or PWC lift is going to last for years and years. So, you want to look for boat dock lifts that keep the steel above the waterline to avoid rust. Stainless steel parts are going to outlast galvanized hardware. HDPE thermoplastic polymer bunks are going to outlast wood and carpet. Poly flotation tanks will still be functioning years after metal tanks have rusted out. These are some of the big reasons that LOTO Lift has engineered a Lifetime model. If you can find one, this would be a solid investment in a used boat hoist.
3. Size and Style
Before buying a used boat lift, you will need to consider what size and style you would like to have. Make sure you know the width of your boat slip so you can buy a lift that fits correctly. Likewise, you’ll need to know the water depth at your slip so you can purchase the right type of lift. For instance, there are boat lifts for shallow water and other kinds that are better suited for the main channel.
It’s imperative that you know how much your boat weighs when it comes out of the water. This is referred to as its dry weight. Each lift has a maximum capacity it can manage, and you don’t want your boat to exceed that amount. Check your boat users’ manual for dry weight and dimensions before buying a lift. Make sure the boat lift capacity is rated higher than your craft’s dry weight.
As for style, there are several different types and boat lift brands. The 3 main general classifications are bottom standing lifts, floating boat lifts, piling mount lifts, and shore mounted lifts. For boating on Missouri lakes and around the Midwest, a floating pneumatic lift is usually the best way to go. Designed for fluctuating water levels, they can accommodate the rise and fall of most lakes and of your dock.
Shop Around for Used Lifts for Boats!
While a used boat lift will cost less than a new one, you can still probably save some money by shopping around. In addition to checking sites like Craigslist, most boat lift companies offer reasonable prices on their preowned merchandise. And while you may be eager to buy one, it’s important to compare brands so that you can find the best deal.
It’s a good idea to shop online to get a better understanding of the different kinds of features offered by different manufacturers. This will help you be more knowledgeable when seeking price quotes from the various boat lift suppliers. Compare the price, quality, guarantee, and size to determine whether you have made the right decision.
And finally, it’s highly recommended that you check out the reputation of the dealer before purchasing your used lift. The company should have been in business for several years and have plenty of satisfied customers who are willing to share their positive experiences.
So, while you’re shopping around and comparing products, we hope you’ll consider LOTO Lift to help you elevate your boating experience!
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