Aug 2, 2017
When Should A Boat Lift Cable Be Replaced?
The proper time to replace a boat lift cable depends on a variety of circumstances:
Corroded & Frayed Cable
- How well is it maintained?
- How often is it lubricated?
- What is used to lubricate the cables?
- Is the cable winding properly?
- Was the lift sized properly?
- Is there any visual damage to the cable?
- Are there frayed wires on the cable?
- Is it a galvanized cable or stainless steel?
- Is there corrosion on the cable?
What is the proper lift cable maintenance?
Lift cable replacement depends on a visual inspection of the lift cables to help determine when to replace them. It’s best to inspect it while it is on dry land in order to check all of the key points. Ideally, the lifting platform (or rack) should be in the lowered position. Of course, make sure the lift cable is not allowed to go slack.
Frayed Lift Cable
Examine the vertical length of the cable for frayed wires especially near the winch. CAUTION – Always wear leather gloves when sliding your hands on the cable. To put it differently, a frayed wire can cause extensive, painful damage to unprotected hands.
The cable is made up of multiple strands of wire and multiple wraps are used to form the overall cable. Excessive fraying or corrosion near the winch is a top signal of damage.
Nothing lasts forever – even boat lift cables
There are two types of cable wear:
- Internal cable abrasion- This occurs whenever strands work against each other under load.
- External abrasion – This also occurs when the cable bends around the winch drum and rubs against the adjoining cable or drum.
How long a lift cable lasts depends on:
- How often it’s used;
- What type of cable it is; and
- The care it receives.
Every time a boat is raised or lowered over a winch drum there is internal wear on the cable. Each strand of wire in the winding is moving at a slightly different speed. Abrasion of the cable strands is the result. When you loose too many strands you lose a lot of strength.
What should be done?
Steel lift cables require a squirt or two of penetrating oil occasionally to reduce the internal friction on the strands and individual wires in the cable. This is particularly important on galvanized cables. Lubrication helps to preserve the galvanized coating and minimizes abrasion between strands. Grease should NEVER be used, as it traps moisture inside the strands. Do not saturate the cable and only use penetrating oil for best results.
Stainless steel lift cable will also benefit from a few squirts of penetrating oil. This should be done in Spring and again in Fall.
Strong indicators that a boat lift cable needs to be replaced:
- Excessive broken strands:
- Kinks:
- Deformities and
- Areas of heavy corrosion.
Corrosion
Rusted Lift Cable
Galvanized cables that break tend to show signs of corrosion or rust. Usually this is located near the winch when the rack is in the lowered position. It also can be at the bottom of the cable where it is secured to the frame. Note: do not allow the main cable to go “slack” when lowering the rack.
A slight discoloration indicates that the protective galvanizing coating has been worn away. Concentrations of heavy rust indicate that the steel cable itself has lost considerable strength and should be replaced immediately.
Assuming the cable is well cared for, how long should it last?
Experts say that, to be safe, galvanized cable should be replaced every two years. All things being equal, stainless cable will last longer, up to twice as long.
A point often overlooked – internal abrasion or rust can be hidden and may not show visible damage on the cable. A boat lift cable like this may sometimes fail without prior warning. An improperly positioned boat, shocks from wave action (when bouncing on the lift rack or jamming the rack against the frame may send your boat into the water.
When in doubt, replace the cable; trying to squeeze another year out of a $75 cable isn’t worth the risk of dropping your boat or personal injury.
Remember
Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in all ShoreMaster docks, lifts and accessories.
Located in the center of Door County at 7325 St Hwy 57, just south of Sturgeon Bay at the intersection of Idlewild Road. Our staff looks forward to serving all of your waterfront needs.
Found this article helpful? Go to “NEWS” on any page of our website for a complete list of articles meant to keep you informed on the latest product information and maintenance issues. Check out our “older entries” also.
The wide variety of articles on dock and boat lifts issues will answer many of your questions. PWS believes that an informed consumer makes better decisions.
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 or Email Jerry@wisconsinpws.com for more information.
Coming Soon – “The PWS Store” on our website
Jul 18, 2017
Plastic Decking is a Major Investment
Plastic decking on a dock or deck is a major portion of the your investment. It makes sense to take time to maintain it properly. This is particularly important on marine structures vulnerable to the elements. All plastic decking requires some yearly maintenance to remain attractive for years to come.
What causes my Plastic Decking to appear dirty?
Mold/mildew is the common term used to describe a growth on the surface of matter. It’s caused by fungi, especially in the presence of dampness. Under a microscope, mold has an octopus-like structure. Its legs attach to a surface in a web-like manner. Once mold has successfully colonized, it releases thousands of new spores over and over again. This growth makes your plastic decking appear dirty.
What makes the mold grow?
Mold needs three things to grow:
- Food, (Leftovers from a bird’s diet and their “droppings” provide the “menu” mold needs to thrive.)
- Moisture (rainwater and people walking on the dock) and
- Temperate weather.
When the spores are in the favorable environment described above, they will germinate. The spores settle out of the air or are deposited by rainwater and wet feet. As a result, they will be more prevalent on horizontal surfaces (like your dock panels). The colonies do not migrate, but rather establish colonies and release even more spores.
Plastic decking is inorganic but nature deposits “food” and moisture in the form of rainwater. Birds deposit further nutrients and even you carry moisture, suntan lotions and dirt from the environment and deposit it on the decking.
While plastic surfaces appear sleek and impermeable, plastic decking still cannot escape the mold/mildew cycle. Plastic decking needs to be cleaned at least once/year. This is particularly true with HDPE plastic decking (usually recycled, solid plastic boards) used as plastic decking,
How can I clean the mold and other dirt off my decking without chemicals?
We all know that we must avoid introducing pollutants, including soaps and cleaning products into our waterways. Still, you do have an option.
With Plastic Decking it usually is not necessary to use ANY chemical cleaners. If you must use a cleaner be sure to use natural biodegradable cleaning solutions that removes buildup without damaging the environment.
Using a Pressure Washer on Plastic Decking makes it super easy to clean
Note – In all cases, the use of safety gloves, face masks or eye protection is highly recommended. Bare feet and hands are very vulnerable to pressure washers and chemicals. Serious injury can occur.
Remember- No chemicals are needed with a pressure washer on Plastic Decking.
With a pressure washer, use a “fan” nozzle with a 20 – 40 degree tip to reduce the pressure. Never use more than 1800# of pressure. The less pressure at the sprayer head, generally the better.
Sweeping across plastic decking in either direction is very effective even without the use of chemicals.
Hand scrubbing
Using a hand brush with natural or plastic bristles and a commercially available product like “OxiClean” is a safe way to wash the decking. “OxiClean” breaks down to oxygen, water and soda ash so it won’t harm the environment. “OxiClean” uses oxygen ions to neutralize stains and dirt.
Many scrub brushes allow you to use a pole handle. This way you do not have to kneel down and it will be more comfortable for you.
Do not press so hard that the bristle bend to the side as the real cleaning takes place at the ends of the bristles. If there is a wood-like or knurled pattern in the decking surface try to follow that direction. This allows you to get deeper into the grooves with less effort.
Get into the deck spacing as far as possible to make the decking look even better. Before the decking dries, rinse the decking with clear water.
If the product you plan to use has oxalic acid (very corrosive) or chlorine bleach we strongly recommend that you do not use it. It is not biodegradable and It could also get you a major fine from the DNR.
As an extra caution, check the label of any product you plan to use to see if it contains harmful ingredients like hypochlorite bleach.
Remember
Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) is located in the center of Door County at 7325 St Hwy 57, south of Sturgeon Bay at the intersection of Idlewild Road. Our staff looks forward to serving all of your waterfront needs.
Found this article helpful? Go to “NEWS” on any page of our website for a complete list of articles meant to keep you informed on the latest product information and maintenance issues. Check out our “older entries” also.
The wide variety of articles on dock and boat lifts issues will answer many of your questions. PWS believes that an informed consumer makes better decisions.
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 or Email Jerry@wisconsinpws.com for more information.
. Coming Soon – “The PWS Store” on our website.
Jul 10, 2017
WHY A DOCK BOX?
A dock box is an easy way to have everything securely stored right at your fingertips. Getting tired of carrying everything from the house to the dock and then back again? You do not have to carry it back and forth every time you want something. The Dock box is ready when you are.
Lift vests, water toys, towels, water skis, etc can all be ready on a moment’s notice. It’s a great way to keep things safe and dry.
Dock boxes are available in over 20 different sizes and styles including seated versions and stand up lockers. Go to .dockboxes.com to see the various sizes and styles available. Then call PWS for a installed price quote.
Assorted Dock Boxes
Check out the features of a quality dock box.
Dock Box
Note: Not all features available on all sizes or units.
Other uses for a dock box or locker box
Dock Box seat
Keep your yard neat by installing a dock box or locker storage unit on your lawn, on your deck or even under your deck Store the kids toys safe and secure with no unsightly mess for the neighbors to see.
The contents are safe & secure while you are gone. A dock box seat gives you extra storage and seating on your deck
Remember
Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in all ShoreMaster and Dock Boxes Unlimited accessories for docks and lifts. PWS is located in the center of Door County at 7325 St Hwy 57 south of Sturgeon Bay at the intersection of Idlewild Road. Our staff looks forward to serving all of your waterfront needs.
Found this article helpful? Go to “NEWS” on any page of our website for a complete list of articles meant to keep you informed on the latest product information and maintenance issues. Check out our “older entries” also.
The wide variety of articles on dock and boat lifts issues will answer many of your questions. PWS believes that an informed consumer makes better decisions.
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 or Email Jerry@wisconsinpws.com for more information.
. Coming Soon – “The PWS Store” on our website.
Jul 5, 2017
Kids of all ages love a slide in the water
With that in mind, you can provide entertainment and a lot of excitement for the kids this summer with a slide that empties into the water! They will really enjoy the fun all summer long. Who doesn’t enjoy a slide?
FreeStanding slide
This freestanding model has adjustable legs so you can set the height above the water. In addition, the handrails provide extra security and stability for the kids. Imagine the fun they will have!
They’ll line up to be the first one to go down! Your problem will be how to get them out of the water!
The aluminum frame and brightly colored slide (Yellow or Tan) is maintenance free and a joy to use.
What other options are there?
Dock Mounted Slide
There is more than one option available. The slide can be mounted on a dock or raft for even more fun and excitement. Talk to PWS about the slides and/or the dock or raft to mount it on.
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NOTE – PWS wants a safe environment for your family. Make sure there is enough water depth to protect the family when exiting the slide. Clear all boulders and hard surfaces from the area to prevent injury. Make sure the unit is stable before anyone uses it. This applies to dock mounted or Freestanding models.
Kids should be supervised at all times.
Remember
Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in all ShoreMaster accessories for docks and lifts. Located in the center of Door County at 7325 St Hwy 57, just south of Sturgeon Bay at the intersection of Idlewild Road. Our staff looks forward to serving all of your waterfront needs.
Found this article helpful? Go to “NEWS” on any page of our website for a complete list of articles meant to keep you informed on the latest product information and maintenance issues. Check out our “older entries” also..
The wide variety of articles on dock and boat lifts issues will answer many of your questions. PWS believes that an informed consumer makes better decisions.
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 or Email Jerry@wisconsinpws.com for more information.
. Coming Soon – “The PWS Store” on our website.
Jun 30, 2017
Leg Pockets with built in Sway braces
Leg Pockets with built in Sway Braces are a new addition to the Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) family of products.
If your dock tends to sway because it is set high out of the water to protect you from the waves, these sway braces are the solution to your problem. You’ll feel much more comfortable walking on your dock.
Leg Braces
These braces are available for new installations (as shown) and a add-on version (independent components) can be added to existing dock legs if needed. Either version will help stabilize your dock in deeper water.
Remember
Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in all ShoreMaster accessories for docks and lifts. Located in the center of Door County at 7325 St Hwy 57 south of Sturgeon Bay at the intersection of Idlewild Road. Our staff looks forward to serving all of your waterfront needs.
Found this article helpful? Go to “NEWS” on any page of our website for a complete list of articles meant to keep you informed on the latest product information and maintenance issues. Check out our “older entries” also.
The wide variety of articles on dock and boat lifts issues will answer many of your questions. PWS believes that an informed consumer makes better decisions.
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 or Email Jerry@wisconsinpws.com for more information.
