Boat Hoist/Lift Weight 4000lbs

[Matt1978]

I have a 20 year old cantilever hoist that has a max capacity of 4000lbs. I just upgraded from a sx195 to a 212. The boat weighs about 3500 lbs dry. I figure gas and things are another 300-400 lbs. Any thoughts on whether this hoist will be sufficient? I'd rather not have to get a new one if I don't have to.

 

[YoDaddy292]

My way of thinking is to stick with what you got. Typically max ratings are less than what they CAN do (and I am the type of guy who believes in being over kill on everything). It’s already in the water and set up so just listen to it/watch it and see how it does. If it seems like it is barely getting there then consider upgrading.

 

[gallobg]

You will be over the max capacity as soon as one person sets foot on deck. Boat + fuel + gear is already 4000 lbs.

Dry weight = 3500
50 gals fuel = +300lbs
Gear = +200 easy

Since the lift is 20 yrs old, I would be concerned about the condition of the cables if they have never been replaced. They are likely to snap at some point and hopefully nobody gets hurt (i.e. cable whiplash).

In other words, the question is less about whether the lift can hoist the boat, but instead how long until the cables fail at/over capacity.

 

[Coult45]

The cables can be replaced. If you have a local dock/lift retailer, they can usually give you some very good advice about the old lift. The 4k lbs capacity might be limited more by the cable and motor than by the frame. Worth talking with them if you have a local resource.

 

[biffdotorg]

After having owned a 3000lb Cantilever and our current 5000lb vertical lift, I often have wondered why any lift mfg would ever make a cantilever above 3000lb.

We had our 20ft X20 SeaDoo on the Cantilever. It was more than adequate for that boat. But sketchy if you had the lift not either fully up or fully down. Anyone jumping on the swimdeck with it not fully up had the potential of tipping the entire lift backwards, as so much weight would be out back pushing the lift past the tipping point.

I would not consider a cantilever of that capacity. But as others have said as well, you may be over either way. Good luck.

 

[r1pilot]

Hello,
I would agree with the others, have the cables replaced for peace of mind. Our 2018 212 sits in a 4k lb lift and had zero issues. I will have the cables replaced this spring and have the winch box looked at. Keep an eye on things, make sure they are maintained and I think you should be fine.