Used boat Lift - Average life?

[mitchell2345]

Hello,

We are considering getting a slip next year vs trailing. Looking at boat lifts i have found one that is for sale in the same marina so the convenience of the move is worth a bit. My bigger question is around average life of a lift. The one i am looking at is a 2003 HydroHoist. I assume the first things to need work is the bunks and replacing the pump. Is that true? How long does everything normally last? I like the idea of saving money by purchasing used but really don't like headaches of breaking equipment on boating day.

Thanks,
Mitchell

 

[harringtondav]

I've never owned one, but know several who have. HydroHoists seem pretty robust. But like buying a used boat, I'd try the hoist before buying it. One friend bought a used one through his marina, and a tank leaked (??) They R&R'd it, but he had to go to the power washer to clean the scum from his hull. The blower should tell you if it's ailing by noise or slow lifting. The condition of the bunks should be easy to evaluate, as well as the bunk support condition. The frame and hinges don't take much load, but can be subject to corrosion. That seems to be where the big $$ and headaches would be.

 

[Scott Danforth]

the structure should be fine, however as you indicated, the bunks, pump, etc. will need attention.

 

[alldodge]

I own one, and if it has fiberglass tubes, and installed with the arms up (normal way) then the only things that go out are the bottom bands and the bolts. The most often failure are loose clamps and the butter fly valve seals. You can but the valve other then hydrohoist, but also hydrohoist has all parts

The blowers can go out, but most the time they do last a while, and being 2003 should be good if your in fresh water. Now if this is salt, all bets are off

 

[lkbum]

I've owned 3 different brands over 30 years or so. The condition depends a lot on the dock height above the water and the amount of waves they take. Wave action wears out the pivot points and bolts, but since you are in a Marina, this probably won't be an issue. If the dock height is relatively low, a portion of the swing arms and their pivot points will always be in the water and corrosion at these points can be an issue. My first lift was a Hydrohoist I purchased in 1988. It is still in use and I believe the current owner replaced the bands a few years ago. A good friend with a similar vintage hydro hoist just paid $1200 for a "rebuild", but most of his hoist is below water level. You can buy replacement blower motors on E-bay (they are new) for about $40 to $60 vs the +$200 lift dealers charge for one. I've never seen an issue with the fiberglass tanks.

 

[mitchell2345]

Thanks for the info.