It is essential for anyone who owns a boat lift to have an idea about installing a boat lift cable. If your old cable is already showing signs of wear and tear, you need to replace it so it continues to provide reliable performance. There are many issues associated with the worn cable such as it causing damage to your water vessel due to structural failure. Maintaining your boat lift does not involve a complicated process, you just need to make sure that you are regularly maintaining it. You can enjoy using your boat lift if the cable is in perfect working condition.
Installing A Boat Lift Cable
Once you have installed your boat lift, the next step you should take is to get into the habit of checking your cables for signs of wear. This step should be done regularly because cables can easily be damaged due to corrosion. Since your cable is the component that carries most of the weight, it will start to show visible signs of damage in the long run.
Your cable must be properly cleaned and needs to be lubricated to prevent it from rusting. For more specific instructions on cable maintenance, you will need to refer to the manufacturer’s manual. It contains all the information you need to prolong the service life of your cable. It is important to note that no matter how you maintain your boat lift cable, it may come to a point when you need to replace it. When it comes to replacement, your boat lift manufacturer will be the one to make some recommendations.
Manufacturers will recommend replacement even when there are no signs of wear. When replacing your cable, the process will depend on your lift system. Be sure that the cable is placed precisely on the winders. It should also be attached to the cradle to ensure that the lift operates smoothly. Do not ignore the manufacturer’s instructions as they are very specific. If you are unsure of the correct process of installing the boat lift cable, leaving the installation to a professional is the best thing to do.
Do not wait for your boat lift cable to snap. Once you have replaced it, be sure to store your lift in a dry place. Exposing it to the water will only make it vulnerable to rusting. Remove your lift from the water and store it, ensuring that the platform or cradle is all the way up. If you have a power hoist, be sure to remove the battery.
When servicing your lift, you also need to take some precautionary measures, by avoiding standing on the lift’s cradle. You should also not use makeshift cables to hold the cradle, wheel or any moving pieces.
Making sure that your boat lift cable receives proper maintenance gives you a guarantee that it will continue to serve you for many years to come. Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for a complete set of instruction. It is more expensive to repair your cables than to replace them so be sure to take extra steps to extend its life.
If you have a boat lift, the cable is one of the most used components that require proper care and maintenance. When determining how often you should replace your lift cable, it will depend on a visual inspection. There are a few key points that you need to check. Be sure to lower the lifting platform when inspecting the cable and start with examining the cable’s vertical length.
Never inspect the cables without wearing leather gloves. Sliding your bare hands on the cable can cause injury. If you look closely, the cable is made of multiple wire strands and wraps. When there is excessive corrosion or fraying, the cable becomes prone to damage.
Cable wear you need to watch out for
As they say, nothing lasts forever. Even when you make it a point to maintain your cables properly. There will come a time when cable wear will occur. There are two types of cable wear that you need to be aware of:
External cable abrasion: This type of abrasion will occur when the cable bends around while rubbing against the adjoining drum or cable.
Internal cable abrasion: If the strands work against each other, it will cause internal cable abrasion, especially when under load.
The lifespan of your lift cable will depend on the care and maintenance it receives, the type of cable you have and the number of times it’s used. The cable experiences wear every time you lower or raise the boat over the winch drum. The stand of wire moves at a varying speed. When abrasion occurs, some strands will become loose, which causes the cable to lose its strength.
How to prevent premature wear
You need to apply penetrating oil as this will reduce the friction on the strands of wire. If you have galvanized cables, be sure to apply the oil occasionally. Lubrication ensures that the galvanized coating is preserved. You also reduce abrasion between the wire strands. Avoid using grease as it does not do a good job in lubricating the strands. It traps the moisture inside the wire stands instead. Be sure to use penetrating oil so you can get the best results.
If your lift cable is made of stainless steel, you can also apply a few squirts of penetrating oil. Lubrication won’t solve the problem if your lift cable has excessive broken strands, deformities, kinks, and heavy corrosion.
If you are not sure about the specifics of your boat lift cables, take a look at the owner’s manual for more information.
Should you immediately replace cables that show signs of corrosion?
Corrosion is common in galvanized cables. As much as you want to preserve the strands, the galvanized coating may wear away if left without protection. When there is a sign of heavy rust, you can expect your lift cable to lose its strength. It should be replaced immediately as you could no longer restore it to its best condition.
Even if your lift cable is well maintained, you still need to replace your cable every two years. Stainless cable, on the other hand, may last longer. You might not immediately notice that your cables have rust or internal abrasion. It only becomes visible when your cable starts to fail. If your boat is improperly positioned, it can cause the cable to fall apart dropping your boat. Replace your lift cable if you are starting to doubt its performance. A worn cable is not worth the risk.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) about Replacing Your Boat Lift Cable
As a boat owner, a boat lift is an essential device for maintaining and protecting your boat. Allowing your boat to be in the water for too long will decrease the life of your watercraft, so be sure to keep it elevated.
This makes the boat lift a valuable item. If you have decided to buy a boat lift, the size of the vessel should be taken into consideration. There are two main factors to keep mind: boat weight and boat width:
Boat Weight
You need to start with knowing the weight of your boat before you consider buying a boat lift. Knowing the weight capacity you need for your boat lift will help you decide which boat lift is right for you.
You can find the base dry weight of your watercraft by checking the boat specification sheet. The sheet also includes useful information like water, storage, gas, batteries, water sports equipment and more. Typically, it’s recommended to add a 20% margin or size up when identifying your boat lift capacity. You might also want to compute the water weight, which can be done by multiplying the boat’s total waste and freshwater tank capacity.
Boat Width
You’ll also have to know about the beam and style of your boat. As the widest portion of your boat, the beam should be accommodated by the boat lift. Don’t forget to check the measurement of the cradle beam length as well. You don’t want your boat lift to be too small or too big. Be sure that either side has a minimum of a four-inch cushion. It’s also important that you have at least a ten-inch cushion in the event you’re going to use guideposts on the boat lift.
The boat lift style will depend on the hull draft shape of your watercraft. Some common shapes are Pontoon, V-Drive, V-Hull, etc. You’ll also need to identify whether you have an outboard or inboard motor.
Aside from the boat width and weight, there are other factors that you need to consider as they will also impact your buying decision. You should consider the dock shape and location. The type of water that your boat is usually exposed to should be checked. Find out if the water is deep fluctuating water or a shallow lakeshore. You’ll also need to determine the water condition where you’re going to dock your boat, especially the water level at low tide. All these factors will help you choose an appropriate boat lift type.
You won’t have difficulties with choosing the right boat lift size for your watercraft if you know these factors. You can also be sure that your watercraft will be safe and secure as the boat lift has the right capacity.
Looking for professional insight into the best lift to meet your needs? Contact us to let our friendly staff assist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Determine The Right Size Of Boat Lift
Boat lift technology continues to improve year after year. What used to be a burden on your back is now offering a more convenient way to haul your vessel out of the water. In the past, boat lifts are operated manually. This difficulty has now become a thing of the past, thanks to the boat lift manufacturers that continue to innovate.
When you are shopping for boat lift, a company that integrates innovative technology into their designs will surely entice you. There is no doubt that boat lifts continue to evolve over the years. All companies are competing against each other to get the attention of customers. This is why it’s no surprise that each of them will claim that they are better than the rest. If you’re searching for a boat lift with innovative or unique design, you might need to start with researching about the company’s patented technology.
You will know that the company is true to its word if they hold patents for the design they claim to be unique. Patents are an indicator that the design has been approved as an invention. It ensures that you are not purchasing an imitation, which is simply copying the original source of design and materials. If a boat lift company doesn’t hold any patents, it’s a clear indicator that they are not industry innovators, and might be new to the boat lift scene.
Smartphone integration into controls
Cutting-edge technology that makes lives easier has now been integrated into modern vehicles, so now you can enjoy smart features at your fingertips. Like smarter cars, boat lifts now have the ability to make the operation easier. With the smartphone integration into controls, you can kiss manual operation goodbye.
Its well-developed interface allows you to operate your boat lift faster and more convenient than ever. All you need to do is to download the app onto your device to get started.
Cycloidal gearless drives
Drives should be specifically designed to address the marine lift’s individual needs. Enter cycloidal gearless drives and you will be on your way to the most powerful and fastest drives. Our drives are dependable and built to offer convenience when lifting your boat.
Cable keepers
Cables getting loose is every boater’s pet peeve and when cables can’t seem to stay in place, what you need is a cable keeper which is designed to hold cables so they don’t get loose or unwrapped. It limits cable movement and also helps to extend your cables’ life. It removes the friction between cables when rubbed together.
With these recent advances, boat lifts will no longer be labor-intensive. Many boat lift companies like IMM Quality Boat Lifts are not resting on their laurels. They know for a fact that innovation is essential for survival.
Entrust your boat lift needs to experts like IMM Quality boat lifts. Aside from our excellent products, we also offer you superior service and hold multiple technology patents, making our boat lifts genuinely stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Innovative Boat Lift Technology:
If you’re a boating enthusiast, you’re aware of the importance of boat lifts in maintaining your boat in excellent condition. When buying a lift, there are certain features you need to be mindful of to ensure it will serve its best purpose. There’s no such thing as a cookie-cutter boat lift as each of them has unique features, but there are key features that you should not forget when buying your lift.
5 Key Features of a Boat Lift
1. Construction: When your boat is on the water, it will need to withstand a highly corrosive environment. Your lift keeps your boat out of the water when you’re not using it. Exposure to water can be detrimental to watercraft, but likewise, a poorly constructed boat lift will not last – leaving both investments in the drink.
Choose a boat lift made from high-grade marine aluminum and steel. Check if the lift manufacturer uses welded construction techniques, which has a proven record of superior durability. Invest in a well-constructed boat lift, and you will be the happy owner of an industrial grade, heavy-duty machine, that will last a lifetime.
2. Design: A great design will result in the optimal balance between the experience when using your boat lift and its functionality and durability.
When looking at different boat lift designs, ask yourself the following questions:
Can bunk placement be custom-designed to fit the boat manufacturers recommendations?
Does the lift manufacturer have experience designing lifts for your specific vessel type and size, as well as location?
3. Drives: The first part of any machine to fail, is often the moving parts. Drives are therefore a critical boat lift feature, which you should consider carefully.
As the heart of your lift, you want to choose a quality drive. A trusted manufacturer should pay extra attention to this feature to ensure long-lasting reliability.
Consider the following when looking at boat lift drives:
Was it engineered explicitly with the corrosive nature of marine environments in mind?
What is the track record of drives designed by this manufacturer?
What kind of controls are offered, and do they have added features such as smartphone integration for the most convenient experience?
4. Cost: The price tag is a factor for most. Consider the following if the cost will determine your choice when buying a boat lift.
A boat lift is a long-term investment in your home. Therefore, look for one with a low cost of ownership over an extended period. Besides the upfront cost, consider factors such as the length of warranty, suggested maintenance, and a track record of keeping vessels above water.
You might have some savings initially when buying the cheapest lift on the market, but when your boat lift breaks down soon after purchase, and you don’t have a good warranty, repair and replacement costs will eat those savings fast. Investing in high-quality boat lift will save you money and give you greater peace of mind.
5. Warranty: As we saw in feature number 4, the warranty can play a significant role in the cost of boat lift ownership over time. But what does a good boat lift warranty look like?
Up to 15 years on structures
Five years on drives
Two years on all other components including the sheaves and motors.
Protection of good product liability insurance
Still figuring out which boat lift to purchase? Explore our wide selection of boat lifts. Contact us today.
Whether you live in the North, where boat lift canopies are removed for winter, or in the South, where they tend to be a more permanent fixture, boat lift canopy care, and maintenance will postpone the need for replacement.
Regardless of the fabric material of your canopy, it cannot withstand the harsh weather forever.
Protecting Your Investment: The Importance of Boat Lift Canopy Covers
Your boat lift canopy and boat lift covers are designed to protect your boat from the elements, but in so doing, it takes the brunt of whatever nature can throw at it.
Follow these guidelines to ensure you get the maximum life out of your canopy.
Removing Your Boat Lift Canopy For Storage
1. Don’t allow water to puddle for long periods of time when the canopy is in use. Bird droppings, water, and dirt can cause discoloration and affect the quality of your canopy. Wash it to remove the dirt before storage.
2. Tree sap and battery acid also cause corrosion, which may form a hole in the canopy. Make sure to keep your canopy free of both.
3. Allow the canopy to dry completely before folding it. A damp or wet canopy can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. When storing your canopy, a warm and dry location will ensure a longer lifespan.
4. Check that the bag or container you use for storage is breathable. Avoid using plastic, because it will only trap moisture causing rotting and mold to occur.
5. When cleaning the canopy, use mild dish soap and water. Do not use cleaning agents that contain harsh chemicals because they will only damage the fabric.
6. While removing tree sap and bird droppings can be challenging, avoid aggressive cleaning as it will just tear the fabric.
Proper Boat Canopy and Boat Lift Covers Care And Storage
Extending the life of your boat lift canopy requires proper cleaning and storage. You need to buy basic supplies that will not damage the fabric. When cleaning the canopy, make sure you remove it from the lift. Then, place it on a flat, clean surface. Aside from mild soap and water, you should only use a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly and allow the canopy to dry before storing it.
Once it has dried thoroughly, you need to fold it several times. Some canopies have their storage bag; otherwise, you can use bags that allow proper air movement. You should also keep the seams and stitching clean and dry. When exposed to moisture, mold will accumulate causing these areas to rot. Prevent small animals like mice and squirrels from getting into your rolled canopy because they can cause stains.
It can be tempting to use materials that will bundle your canopy together such as glue or duct tape, but this material can be tough to remove. When you bind your canopy for long periods, you will notice signs of damage such as splitting and creasing. Storing the canopy on the floor might be a good idea, but it poses a threat to your canopy’s lifespan because moisture can accumulate under the box or bag.
The accessories that come with your boat lift canopies such as bungees, cords, straps, and springs must be stored in a separate bag and kept together with the canopy so you can easily find them when needed. They should be in a separate bag because these items might roll into fabric layers and tear the fabric. These care and maintenance tips can save you the expense of replacement by extending the lifespan of your boat lift canopy.
Do you have any questions or comments about boat lifts? Feel free to contact us anytime. We’re here to help!
IMM Quality Boat Lifts Call: (800) 545-5603 17030 Alico Center Rd. Fort Myers, FL 33967
Are you thinking about becoming a boat owner? Good for you!
Boating is great for your health. It can help decrease stress and get you some healthy Vitamin D, too.
However, if you’re considering purchasing a used boat, you’ll need to do some thorough detective work to make sure you’re not getting a lemon. But don’t worry, it’s easy when you’re armed with the right information!
Curious to know more about what to look for when buying a used boat? Keep reading.
We’ll review our top four tips for buying a used boat, as well as some great questions to ask the previous owner. Let’s get started!
1. Check the Fiberglass for Cracks
Whether they’re above or below the waterline, cracks in a boat’s fiberglass are bad news. Be sure to check every inch of fiberglass on any vessel you’re considering for purchase.
Tiny, spiderweb-like cracks are usually non-threatening. However, if you find cracks longer than two inches, it could mean trouble that requires significant repairs.
2. General Damage Is Key in What to Look for When Buying a Used Boat
In addition to cracks in the fiberglass, look for general damage while you complete your inspection. Any indication of any trauma or deterioration is important to note.
3. Inspect the Belts for Wear
Take a look at the power steering and alternator belts. Are they cracked? Worn down or thin?
Take this into consideration before buying a used boat. Poorly cared-for belts may indicate poor care overall.
4. Mold and Mildew Are Bad Signs
Check the seats, carpeting, and storage areas for mold or mildew. Although you can easily replace unsightly upholstery, extensive mildew and mold (especially inside seats) are a bad sign.
Similar to mold in a household, it can pop up anywhere where moisture is present. Mold spreads quickly, and a significant mold problem will be difficult to get under control.
Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Boat
Want to know how to buy a used boat with complete confidence? Ask the seller some questions first. Here’s where to start:
What year is the boat/ motor?
How many hours are on the motor?
When and where was the boat last serviced?
How long have you owned this boat? What about the motor?
Are you the first owner?
Has the boat been protected from water damage by a boat lift or any other means?
Has the boat sustained any major repairs?
When was the last time the boat was in use?
Are either the motor or boat still under any warranties?
These questions should give you a great idea of what shape the boat is in. From there, you can make an educated decision about buying.
Enjoy!
Now that you know what to look for when buying a used boat, get out there and find the perfect fit for you. Enjoy the freedom of having your own vessel to use whenever you please.
Just remember to check any boats you look at for cracks in the fiberglass, damage, and mold. And don’t forget to ask plenty of questions about the boat’s use and repair history.
Do you have any questions or comments about boat lifts? Feel free to contact us anytime. We’re here to help!
IMM Quality Boat Lifts
Call: (800) 545-5603
17030 Alico Center Rd.
Fort Myers, FL 33967
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about 4 Things to Look for When Buying a Used Boat
Many new boat owners aren’t sure whether to invest in a boat lift or not. To help clarify whether it’s the right choice for you, let’s first go over what a boat lift is.
A boat lift is a device that allows you to lift your craft from the water. This comes with many benefits, and can dramatically increase a boat’s lifespan. Any vessel can use one of these devices, regardless of its size or location.
Need some more convincing? Here are the main three reasons why a boat lift is a shrewd purchase for any boat owner.
1. Water Absorption
At first, storing your boat in the water may seem like the most natural thing in the world. However, this can lead to the rapid deterioration of the boat’s exterior.
Why is that? For starters, being in the water all the time can wear out the lower unit and cause hull blisters. Plus, you’ll have to clean scum and residue buildup on a regular basis.
And, of course, there’s the matter of appearance. Regardless of how much you’ve invested in your boat, you want it to remain as pristine as possible. Without a boat lift, the paint at the bottom of your boat is likely to decay faster.
In other words, boat lifts help you protect both the appearance and the resale value of your boat. In the long run, the money you’ll save on exterior maintenance can add up.
2. Water Level Fluctuations
Depending on where you live, fluctuations in water levels can be a real issue.
These fluctuations can be minor or major, but they’ll have some impact. Storms and season changes, in particular, can cause serious damage to your boat. A boat lift will keep your craft away from debris and fluctuating water.
Water level fluctuations can also make it harder to get in and out of your boat. Boarding and disembarking in restless water or extreme tides can become complicated and even dangerous.
Well, boat lifts can help you in this regard as well. By using a lift, you should be able to stabilize the movement of your boat in most situations and raise it to a level where you can comfortably get out.
3. Saving Time
Finally, a boat lift helps you save time while getting in and out of the water.
If you have a lift, you need simply lower your craft and drive off. Without a lift, there will likely be a couple of extra steps before that. If you can’t wait to take off, this can be an exhausting process.
Plus, having a boat lift makes it easier to check for cracks and leaks on the hull. If your boat has been in the water for a while, doing a maintenance check can reveal all sorts of issues.
Buying the Right Boat Lift
All in all, a boat lift is a great way to protect your investment. Now that you know why these devices are worthwhile, you may be wondering, “Which one to buy?” There are many types of boat lifts out there, and it’s easy to get confused.
Not sure where to start? You may want to take a look at our catalog! All our boat lifts are expertly engineered, and we can also design one just for you.
That time you’ve dreamed about for years has finally come: you’ve bought yourself a jet ski, and you couldn’t be happier.
Sunny days on the water are right around the corner, and you can’t wait to hit the waves on your new craft. But first: you need to get it home, and get it ready for launch with the most appropriate jet ski lift.
Are you unsure which jet ski lift is right for you? Are you unsure how to even choose what’s right for you?
Keep reading to learn some key points when choosing jet ski lifts and floating docks, and how to select the right one for your specific needs.
Capacity
First of all, how big is your jet ski? This is the most important consideration when picking out a jet ski lift. If you buy one that can’t support the weight of your jet ski, it’ll collapse, sending your new prize possession crashing into the water beneath it.
You clearly don’t want that.
You might think that checking the literature given to you when you purchased your jet ski for the dry weight is enough, but you would be wrong.
There are a number of other weight considerations you need to account for when determining the right capacity for your new jet ski lift:
the dry weight of the jet ski
the weight of attached gear (seat covers, stuff in the storage bin, etc.)
weight of the fuel in the fuel tank (about 6.3 lbs per gallon)
the weight of non-factory add-ons
The weight of non-factory add-ons is a big one because it’s easy to overlook! If you opted for any additional attachments or engine upgrades, you’re going to need to add that weight to the dry weight of the machine noted in the brochure. That’s because this dry weight is the weight of the default model.
And let’s be honest, you should add in the weight of the passengers. Jet ski lifts are not elevators with the built-in safety features, and your lift owner’s manual will tell you not to ride on your jet ski as the lift goes up or down. However, many people will still do it because it is more convenient. Do you want to take the chance of overloading the lift and having it collapse while your passengers are sitting on the jet ski?
Single or Dual?
Although you might only have the one jet ski right now, it’s likely that you’re going to fall in love with it and want another soon. If you have a partner or a family, it’s going to seem even more essential after skiing alone for a few months to get another in the water.
If you see yourself investing in another jet ski in the near future, you might want to consider investing in a dual jet ski lift now. Sure, you could uninstall and re-install when the time comes, but consider the cost and effort involved.
You’ll be thanking yourself later when you’re driving a new jetski home, and you’ll already have a place to put it.
Got Your Jet Ski Lifts?
Ready to get your new toy in the water? Get in touch with us to discuss all your jet ski dock lift needs. We are experts in our craft, and can help you determine exactly which one you need!
IMM Quality Boat Lifts Invests in Additional CNC Machines!
Fort Myers, FL May 11, 2018 – IMM Quality Boat Lifts, the world’s leading manufacturer of boat lifts, continues to grow and expand capacity to meet strong customer demand. This new equipment forms part of our ongoing $2.5 million equipment and facility expansion initiative that began last year. The expansion initiative is a tremendous opportunity to continue to improve our industry-leading machining, fabrication and welding capabilities and reflects a very proactive stance to keep IMM Quality Boat Lifts growing and thriving in 2018 and beyond.
“We are humbled by the confidence and trust our customers have bestowed upon us,” said Mike Nanda, President, IMM Quality Boat Lifts. “We are committed to honoring that trust with continued investment in our production capabilities, capacity and our employees. We are serious about providing the highest quality products with the fastest turnaround time in the industry.”
This month, the company has added a Haas super-speed VF-4SS CNC vertical mill, a Haas GR-510 CNC gantry router and a GEKA Hydracrop 110SD CNC combination punch press and iron worker. We have also added 10-ton overhead cranes to our top-beam assembly department, to our welding and fabrication department and to our delivery fleet loading area to allow the fabrication of much larger projects.
At IMM Quality Boat Lifts, we make all of the parts that go into our boat lifts ourselves, and that is why we are a big believer in computer numeric control (CNC) machining in our factories. In a CNC manufacturing process, the dimensions for a given part are specified with computer-aided design (CAD) software and imported into a machine to control the movement of the machining tools. CNC machining overcomes the limitations of manual control where live operators are needed to prompt and guide the machining tools via levers, buttons, and wheels. CNC manufacturing allows for consistency in parts production that would be difficult, if not impossible, to replicate manually. Our increased CNC manufacturing capacity will improve final product performance by offering superior part quality, best-in-class lead time, and unsurpassed on-time delivery.
Details on the new CNC machines:
Haas Automation offers a full line of American-made products and the high-quality Haas machines are engineered for simple maintenance, easy setup, and low-cost operation. Haas developed the Wireless Intuitive Probing System (WIPS) with the job shop in mind. Use the simple, easy-to-follow templates to set your tool and work offsets, literally, in seconds. Not only will our shop be more productive and experience reduced setup times, the new machines also provide increased cutting performance, longer tool life, and better tool clearance.
VF-4SS Super-Speed VMC 50” x 20” x 25” with 15,000 RPM spindle, 40+1 side mount tool changer, 4th axis drive, wireless intuitive probing system, probe riser block, automatic pallet changer, CNC control cabinet cooler, programmable coolant nozzle and 32 GB expanded memory.
GR-510 gantry router 121” x 61 x 11” with 15,000 RPM spindle, 20 station automatic tool changer, wireless intuitive probing system, high speed machining, rigid tapping, programmable coolant nozzle, automatic air gun, minimum quantity lubrication system, CNC control cabinet cooler, remote jog handle, extended Z-axis clearance (6” risers) and 32 GB expanded memory.
GEKA Hydracrop 110SD is a universal ironworker featuring two hydraulic cylinders driving two simultaneous workstations. The ironworker is fitted with tools for L (180 Tn power), shearing (180 Tn power), round and square bars, rectangular notching, triangular notching, tube notching and punching (120 Tn power). The Semipaxy feature brings the newest CNC automation and positioning technology to the punching of metal. This unit is equipped with programmable stops along the X- and Y-Axis.
For more information on IMM Quality Boat Lifts, visit: https://mannyg9.sg-host.com
###
Contact:
Steve Nanda
17030 Alico Center Rd.
Fort Myers, FL (33967)
(800) 545-5603
pr@iqboatlifts.com
As the Summer months approach, many people will be preparing to spend time on the water. Small fishing boats are a popular way to enjoy your local lake or favorite waterway. But is your boat equipped with everything you’ll need for a safe and enjoyable outing?
You’ve spent hours getting your gear ready: fishing rods, tackle box, and even the standard equipment like life preservers, fuel for the motor, flashlights, etc., but is that everything you need?
Here is a list of a few items you might want to consider adding to your boat.
5 Things You Need On Small Fishing Boats
Do you have everything you need for your boat to handle an emergency? Check out these five things you need on small fishing boats to make sure you’re prepared.
1. An Extra Life Preserver
Stowing an extra life preserver on small fishing boats is always a smart idea. One reason is that things like life preservers can easily get misplaced or lost, and it’s vital that every person aboard the boat has a life preserver.
Also, you never know when an extra person might come aboard unexpectedly for a day, like a friend or someone you meet along the way, and you will need to have a life preserver for them so that everyone on the board is safe.
2. A Small Anchor
Having a small anchor really comes in handy, especially on a windy day. When you’ve found a nice spot on the water where you’d like to fish or swim, dropping anchor prevents the boat from drifting.
It’s also a helpful item for when you have motor problems because the anchor prevents you from behind pulled by the current or pushed around by the wind while you work on getting the motor running again.
This is a great way to keep from winding up in the middle of the lake or drifting into the weeds.
3. A Multi-Tool
A Leatherman multi-tool is like having an entire toolbox in your pocket. These little gadgets can do most anything, from cutting line or wire, to turning screws or bending a hook. We highly recommend keeping a multi-tool handy for any small emergency or repair that might come up.
4. Wax Candles
You’d be amazed how useful wax candles can be. Sure, you can use them as an emergency light source if necessary. But they also make an excellent lubricant.
Stuff on small fishing boats can become sticky, like cables, jammed zippers, or perhaps the steering arm on your outboard motor has become stiff. A simple solution is to rub a wax candle on the area to loosen it up.
5. Pantyhose
This one might sound like a strange item to include on our list, but don’t laugh just yet. Believe or not, pantyhose can serve many purposes.
This material works great as an emergency filter for drinking water, or even as a strainer if dirt gets in your gasoline. Use it as a make-shift chum bag or emergency rope. Pantyhose are cheap and can be stowed anywhere.
Always Be Prepared
Every item on this list is significant and can make your next boating adventure less stressful when emergency situations arise. And the good news is, these items are relatively inexpensive.
We encourage you to check your list of gear to see how many of these items you might already have around the house and to budget a few extra dollars for things you might need to pick up before the weekend or Summer vacation.
Contact us with any questions about our boat lifts and accessories.
Congratulations to Tom Strand and everyone at Marine Boatlifts (http://www.marineboatlifts.no/) for overcoming all the rain and putting on an amazing display at the Haugesund boat show, the largest in Norway! Haugesund is one of the major maritime cities in Norway and is home to the National Maritime Directorate
Haugesund is where, a thousand years ago, King Harald Fairhair united Norway into a single kingdom. Haugesund is in the Southwest of Norway on the North Sea coastline nestled among countless small islands and mighty fjords. As you will see in some of Tom’s installation photos, he has been able to overcome some challenging locations with some spectacular mountings 🙂
IMM Quality Boat Lifts Enters New Markets with Expanded Manufacturing Capabilities, New Equipment, and Larger Fleet
Fort Myers, FL – IMM Quality Boat Lifts, the world’s largest and leading boat lift manufacturer, has recently updated and expanded their Fort Myers, Florida, facilities. The company’s main manufacturing facility now includes 34,000 square feet under roof to go with a further 30,000 square feet of exterior workspace. The secondary factory has completed its conversion to a modern 14,000 square foot dedicated testing and product development facility.
In addition to the expansions, the company has invested over $1,000,000 in new equipment and factory improvements. The new equipment the company has added include a second computer numerical control (CNC) router table, another CNC auto saw, CNC plasma cutter, AlumaFeed synergic dedicated aluminum welding systems and a drill center with sliding press on linear rails. A brand new primary air compressor system was added along with a new automated backup secondary air compressor system so there is never any downtime with the CNC machines and air tools.
The factory’s materials handling capabilities were expanded and the materials storage facilities were modernized for better organization and computerized inventory control. Finally, the company has upgraded to the most modern engineering software, including computer-aided design (CAD) software, computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software to run the CNC machines and materials stress analysis testing software. These tremendous improvements allowed them to streamline the manufacturing process while keeping the reliability and quality they are well-known for. They also added a whole new fleet of vehicles to expand delivery capabilities to their dealers.
“Over the past few years, home construction and the number of boat owners have both gone up,” said Steve Nanda, the company’s head of operations “and this has resulted in an increase in the number of IMM Quality Boat Lifts customers.” “We are grateful to our customers for enabling us to make great leaps in the past few years,”
IMM Quality Boat Lifts has been manufacturing boat lifts since 1982. With increased capacity, they are growing nationally, but are also expanding into various international markets. Over the past few years, they have entered markets in Norway, Russia, India, and now Qatar, in each instance innovating to adapt to the local geography and conditions. In Qatar, a private marina has an eight feet by sixty feet floating dock connected to a fixed pier by floating gangway. IMM Quality Boat Lifts custom-designed powerheads and a lift system to raise the entire floating dock up the dock’s internal concrete reinforced steel pilings. Their in-house engineering department and custom design services allow them to build products for unusual circumstances and to meet the needs of a demanding market.
For examples of installations done in the USA and abroad, there are photos available on their website gallery.
The company manufactures boat lifts including vertical boat lifts, elevator lifts, specialty boat lifts, personal watercraft lifts, the Titan yacht lift and boat house lifts. IMM Quality has over 30,000 boat lifts in the field, and some of their original models are still in operation after 40 years.
For more information on IMM Quality Boat Lifts, visit: https://mannyg9.sg-host.com ### Contact: Steve Nanda 17030 Alico Center Rd. Fort Myers, FL (33967) (800) 545-5603 pr@iqboatlifts.com
After a storm, it’s important to know how to safely inspect your boat lift and dock or seawall to make sure they are still in great shape. To help you make your inspections as thorough as possible, we created this guide. As a reminder, our recommendation is to remove your boat from the lift prior to any hurricane and store it safely on dry land. For more information on how to prepare for hurricane season, please consult our guide.
Turn Off the Power
Before you do anything, turn off the electric service to your dock and lift at the shore side electrical service panel. It would be a good idea to put lockout tags on the service panel so that no one accidentally turns the power back on while you are inspecting the dock and boat lift.
Your boat lift is only as strong as the underlying structure. It is very common for storms to damage or destroy docks. If there appears to be any damage to the dock structure, contact a professional marine contractor to make sure that it is safe to use.
When a seawall is built, marine engineers must take into account the pressure being exerted on a seawall by the water it is protecting the property from as well as the pressure exerted on the seawall by the land behind it. Maintaining the pressure balance is key to quality seawall construction. Many people would assume that seawall damage by hurricanes would be due to the surges of water coming toward the land, but that assumption is incorrect. Most seawall damage from hurricanes occurs when the water is driven out away from the land by the high winds. The pressure on the seawall from the land combined with the lack of support by the water on the other side of the seawall creates a pressure imbalance. This can cause a seawall to crack or even crumble.
Seawall damage may be hidden because the water often returns to normal levels before property owners are able to inspect the seawall. So even if your property wasn’t flooded during a hurricane, the storm could still have caused damage to your seawall. Please have your seawall inspected for damage by a professional marine contractor before attempting to use a boat lift attached to the seawall. It is better to err on the side of caution than to have your seawall collapse under the load of your boat.
Inspect the Electrical Connections
Look for any broken electrical cables that connect to the lift control box, the lift motors, lights on the dock and any other electrical components you may have on the dock. Pay special attention to any broken cables that are in the water as they are particularly dangerous. Also, look for any electrical cables that appear to be loose. Loose cables will have flopped around in the wind and may have broken the terminal connections or have broken internal strands. DO NOT turn on the power to your lift if the motors are suspected of having been underwater. If you notice any problems, contact a licensed electrician to assess and repair the electrical systems.
After a storm, you’ll probably see a lot of debris lying around. Clear out any debris you see. Don’t forget to check for debris below and behind the boat. If your boat is full of water, DO NOT attempt to board. Try to clear the drain plug opening from land to drain the boat.
Inspect your lift for any signs of damage like bent or twisted beams, damaged drives or broken bunks. If your lift shifted because of the storm, the unit needs to be realigned and made square. On a four-pile lift, you can measure for square by comparing the diagonal pile to pile measurements. It is also possible that the lift cradle is out of square due to a combination of the bunk brackets shifting and the lift cables becoming misaligned in the grooved winders. Consult your installation manual for instructions on how to adjust these components.
Inspect all the hardware on the boat lift. Look for bent or damaged bolts and check that the fasteners are on tight and in good condition. If you notice any damage, we highly recommend having a marine contractor assess your lift for repairs.
Thoroughly Inspect the Lift Cables
After a storm, double and triple check your cables. Look for kinks and abrasions on the cable. Then, slowly run your hand over the cable to feel for frayed and broken strands. Ensure there are no areas that are questionable. If an issue is spotted, do not operate the lift until new cables have been installed.
Perform a Test Run
If everything on your dock and boat lift has checked out ok, it is time to turn the power back on. Try to run the lift up and down to test your control box, motors, and gearbox. If the lift doesn’t perform properly, check with your lift’s owners manual to make sure you’re operating your lift properly. It’s also helpful to use as a guide for troubleshooting any problems you encounter. If the lift motors and gearbox were submerged by saltwater, they will likely need to be replaced. If you can’t find the problem, have a trained service technician examine your lift to determine the cause of the problem.
No Power?
What if power has not been restored to your home and you want to operate your boat lift? Without power, raising or lowering the lift is a difficult process. You can use a generator to power the lift (see Safe generator use), however, most generators have a low starting torque and the lift power draw will bog down a generator if it is not sufficiently sized. Your typical 1800 watt portable generator will not cut it. Consult your installation manual to determine your lift’s power requirements. Another concern is re-wiring your lift. We recommend using a 220 Volt electrical cord (4 conductor) to bring power to the inputs at the control box and that plugs into the generator.
If no generator is available, it is possible to manually operate the lift. You will need to remove the covers and motors from the drives on both top beams. Next, you need to get an adaptor consisting of a 5/8” steel shaft with a 3/16” keyway to insert into the gearbox input. You can chuck this adaptor into a drill (please note that typical home drills only have a ½” chuck) and use it to raise or lower the lift. If you don’t have two drills with adaptors (one for each top beam) you will need to raise one side a little bit, then move to the other top beam to move it an equivalent amount.
Get High-Quality Lifts Today
At IMM Quality Boat Lifts, we are committed to building the best quality boat lifts on the market today. Our lifts are built to last a lifetime.
But more than that, we want you to enjoy being out on the water in your boat. We don’t want you wasting your time on maintenance, repairs, or even where to find the best boat shoes. Keep visiting our blog to learn all about the boating lifestyle and Boat Lifts
If you’ve decided to buy a boat, you’re in good company. In 2016, there were 3.65 billion dollars of recreational boat sales.
But how do you decide exactly which boat to buy?
If you’re thinking of buying a boat, then keep reading. This article covers useful questions to ask yourself when buying a boat.
Why Are You Buying a Boat?
From fishing boats to speed boats to houseboats. There are many different types of vessels to choose from when buying a boat.
What kind of activities do you want to do? Is it for deepsea fishing, or to take a relaxing cruise on a Sunday afternoon?
Maybe it’s the adrenaline rush you get from a speedboat that you’re looking for.
Ever consider living on a boat? Maybe do a little island hopping? Yes, there are even boats for that.
Make a list of all the things you want to do, and don’t hold back – there’s a boat for everything you could possibly dream of doing.
Who Is The Boat For?
Next, decide who you will be inviting on this boat. Maybe you want a smaller two-man fishing boat for just you and your significant other.
Or maybe you are buying a boat to take a group of your best friends out for a social gathering on a 22-foot speedboat.
How many people you plan on having on your boat will help you determine what size of boat you should buy.
When Will Your Boat Be Used?
Of course, we know you’ll be using the boat on beautiful, sunny days, but what about the days that you aren’t able to be on the water. Where will you keep it?
This is important to think about because there is a lot that goes into the storage and winterization of a boat.
Do you have a place to store your boat during the offseason? How will you get it there?
Is your boat going to be kept at a vacation home? If so, you will need to consider if you need a custom dock and gangway.
How Will You Purchase Your Boat?
Buying a boat is a big decision. It can also be an expensive decision.
There are different boats for every kind of budget. Boat prices can range anywhere from $10,000 up to $70,000 and beyond.
Do some research on different brands. Certain brands will be more expensive, while lesser known brands may be good enough, but more affordable.
Also, consider buying a used boat, or sharing the boat with other people you trust to keep the costs low.
Time To Set Sail
The great thing about boating is it is completely custom and individualized to whatever adventure you are dreaming of.
Have questions or concerns regarding docking and boat lifts? Relax, we’re here to help in any way we can.
So get out there already! Get the boat you’ve been eyeing, invite your friends along.
