After a slow start to spring, boats are finally back in the water. With higher-than-normal lake levels on Okanagan Lake this year, it’s more important than ever to ensure your dock and lift systems are ready to perform safely and reliably.
Here are Shoreline’s top early-season tips to help protect your dock and boat lift on Okanagan Lake & start your season off right.
1. Inspect Your Dock
Start with a quick inspection:
- Check under the dock for loose or damaged timbers
- Inspect pilings for signs of movement or wear
- Run your water system and check for leaks
- Confirm no wires are hanging in the water
2. Check Lift Hardware & Power
- Make sure all hardware is tight and secure
- Confirm the lift is powered on and functioning properly
- If you’ve upgraded your boat, double-check your lift’s weight capacity to avoid strain or damage
3. Inspect the Lift Structure
- Look for corrosion, wear, or damage on the cradle, cables, and frame
- Examine surrounding pilings for structural integrity
- Not sure what to look for? Ask us about our Spring Start-Up Inspection Package
4. Find & Mark the Balance Point
- Your boat should be centered on the lift—lifting from the center of gravity reduces wear
- Mark this position with a sticker or reference point on your boat to make loading easier each time
5. Confirm Bunk Positioning
- Bunks must match your boat’s hull shape and be in full contact with the surface
- Re-adjust if they appear loose or uneven—misaligned bunks can cause damage over time
6. Adjust Side Guides
- Guides should fit snug against your boat
- We recommend moving the bow-side guides in slightly to prevent forward drift when loading
7. Check Lift Clearance
- Make sure fins are fully clear of lift mechanisms
- Double-check that the propeller isn’t resting on or touching any part of the cradle
8. Keep the Cradle Out of the Water
- During high water, always lift your cradle fully when not in use
- Constant movement from waves and wind can weaken the lift system over time
Questions or Concerns? Let’s Talk.
Whether you need a quick fix, a full inspection, or just peace of mind—our Service Department is here to help.
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Built for lake life. Backed by experience.
Start your season right with Shoreline.
