Boat lift question

[fishfinder]

I've got a 'homemade' boatlift built by a previous property owner. I'm attaching a couple of pictures of it. Can anyone tell me if they think this thing can support a 218 dlv? I'm getting ready to order the boat. I'm going to build a new lift but probably won't get it done for a couple months and would like to use the one in the pictures temporarily provided the dlv doesn't bring the thing crashing down.

The lift in the picture has a single 3/4 hp motor that drives a metal pole across the middle that spins the cables up and down. The main supports are crossbeams across the front and back...dual 2x10's bolted together and then bolted to the pilings. Four galvanized 'cable brackets??' share most of the load and are twice bolted thru the dual 2x10's.

I'd appreciate any advice on how to figure out what the capacity of this lift is. I think I would need at least 2100 lbs for just the boat and motor. My instincts tell me this lift is probably close to that but maybe to close for comfort.

[Big Will]

I wouldn't put my boat on it. Looks like about a J16's worth of strength...

Find out what the previous owner put on it and then you can compare the weight of that rig to yours.

Of course if your brave... load test that baby. Check your life insurance and wear a hard hat though.:eek:

[Shakespeare]

FF, ya know the only thing holding those pulleys is the carriage bolts going through the wood beam. Those things need to be backed with some plate.. actually a hanger over the top of the beam would be even better.

What's the diameter and material type of the cable? How about a gear box? Any data on that? Does the motor have a brake? Lot's of questions to be answered in order to tell you the actual capacity of the lift.

I agree with Big Will... I sure wouldn't be hanging much off of it, especially a brand new DLV.

My $.02

Mike C.

[Shakespeare]

Actually I have an idea... put some planks over the rails. Put 5 50 gallon barrels on the planks and fill them with sea water.

Sea water weight per gallon = 8.56 lbs (approx)

250 gallons x 8.56 = 2140 lbs.

See if she can lift that.... but you may want to try one barrel at a time until she stalls.

Mike C.

[Gunnar]

fishfinder,

I'd build another one or hire someone to build it. It'll give you something to do while you are waiting for your boat. ;D

Gregg

[Ron]

fishfinder

I would suggest that you call Lance or Larry Shore over at Shore & Shore. They installed my pier and boat lift over here in Mathews County. I think they are out of Urbana.

Great guys and they do quality work for a good price. I'm sure they would be willing to look at your current lift and provide advice.

Good luck.

[NOTHING ELSE MATTERS]

I wouldn't put a boat that big on it either.Looks like maybe 1000-1200 lbs capacity, between the cables, the cross beams and the 2x8 ? on them.

[fishfinder]

Thanks for the replies and ideas. I agree with yous and think I'll reserve this lift for a smaller boat and get going on a new one for the 218. Cheers.

Bill