Service
Here are answers to some common questions about our product. If you can't find the answer to your question here, see our frequently asked questions for ShoreStation owners.
What is the maximum capacity of my boat lift?
This depends on the model number. The first 2 numbers are the capacity in hundreds of pounds.
How wide of a boat can fit in my lift?
This depends on the model number. The last 3 numbers are the inches between the posts of entry, prior to the installation of optional load guides.
What corner of the boat lift can the winch be mounted?
Left front or right rear on aluminum and right front or left rear on steel.
What is the minimum water depth my boat lift will work in?
Approximately 12"-14" plus the draft of the boat.
What is the maximum water depth the boat lift can installed in?
The standard lift leg can be used in up to 4 ft. The extension leg can be used in up to 6 ft. of water. The deepwater lift models can be used in up to 9 ft. of water.
What parts of the boat lift need lubrication?
The threads of the winch drive shaft, winch cable, and drive chain.
Can I change my 3000 lb. boat lift to a 4000 lb. boat lift?
It can be done, but it is not cost effective.
How do I know when to replace the cables?
When cables start to fray, they should be replaced.
Can I replace the winch cables?
Cable replacement requires special tools and expertise backed up by factory training. Please contact a servicing dealer for this important service that requires OEM parts.
Can I assemble the boat lift myself?
Only a qualified ShoreStation dealer should assemble and install a boat lift; ShoreStation dealers are factory-trained to make sure you are satisfied with your purchase. In addition, if assembled and installed incorrectly, only dealer work will be covered by warranty protection.
Is the winch tube adjustable?
Yes, it can be adjusted up or down to the corresponding numbers on both ends of the tube. This will limit the lifting height.
What is the warranty on the boat lift?
See Boat Lift Warranty or see the
How long is the warranty for the aluminum dock?
See Dock Warranty
How long is the warranty for the cedar dock hardware?
See Dock Warranty
What do you use for unstable bottoms?
We recommend a muck pad, which is available through your ShoreStation dealer.
How should I treat my ShoreStation Cedar dock?
ShoreStation uses Diamond Vogel #AG8319 – "Transparent Natural Cedar." It is ShoreStation Part #4040132.
What makes your system so much better than traditional cable-winding lifts?
There are several advantages to our hydraulic boat lift over traditional lifts that wind cables around a pole or drum. Below are just a few of the many:
- Speed lift speeds exponentially faster result in safer and more convenient operation. Because the platform comes up quicker, it reduces your time needed to hold the boat in place.
- Longevity We offer the best warranty in the industry (by far!). Hydraulic lifts do not wind cables creating much less stress on the cables. This allows us to confidently offer an industry leading 15-year warranty on the cables and structure. Watch our video animation of the Cylinder Operation.
- Hassle-Free Unlike traditional lifts that can be over-wound or "bird nest" when the cables go slack, our hassle-free cable design makes it impossible for these head-ache situations to occur. We have created a system that protects the user from the lift, and vice-versa!
- Reliability 24v DC power with solar charging not only saves you electrical costs, but it adds reliability that the lift will work in any conditions. More importantly, it keeps your waterfront safer when you don't have to worry about electrical currents near the water.
- Visit our hydraulic comparison guide for more side-by-side advantages of the ShoreStation Hydraulic Boat Lift vs Traditional Lifts Comparison Guide.
What kind of maintenance is required to keep the lift in good and operable condition?
One of the best features of this system is that it is virtually maintenance free. You don't have to worry about annual inspection costs, greasing gears, or replacing or repairing cables. The only required maintenance is replacing your battery when it dies, which is commonly 3-5 years. You can even leave the battery outside all winter long if it is hooked up to the solar panel or battery tender and continues to get a charge.
What kind of batteries do you recommend?
Deep cycle group 24 marine batteries are recommended.
Is this lift cumbersome to operate and troubleshoot?
Simplicity is the trademark of the system. The lift is easily operated with the single push of a wireless remote and has built-in user safety factors that ensure the user cannot cause any damage to the boat or system itself. If a rare situation does arise where the lift is not working properly, the system can most commonly be diagnosed and fixes on-site without any major tools or repair.
What kind of hydraulic fluid is used, and how often do I need to change it?
We include Jax Marine Blue hydraulic fluid with all lifts. Rarely will you experience a leak, but in the event that is does happen the fluid is biodegradable and EPA approved. We recommend replacing the fluid every 10 years.
If necessary, can the hydraulic cylinder be replaced?
Yes, in the unlikely event of a cylinder failure, it can be replaced. It is also possible to rebuild the cylinder and install new seals. This would be a rare occurrence in our experience. We would equate it to rebuilding your transmission in your car…this usually occurs after 250K miles.
Why is ShoreStation® heavily promoting DC power?
Reliable DC power delivers maximum and constant power, resulting in the fastest lift time of any power system available. No more worrying about low voltage AC power supplies. DC also yields 6 – 8 cycles on a fully charged battery. The Battery Tender or solar panel automatically recharges the battery with no daily maintenance.
How can I tell the carrying capacity of a lift?
The first two numbers listed in the model number indicate the capacity in hundreds of pounds.
What is the warranty on the boat lifts?
See Boat Lift Warranty »
How do I find parts for my lift?
We'll help you get the right parts the first time. Visit www.shorestation.com/parts for more information.
