Have questions about Craftlander boat lifts, docks, parts, or maintenance?
This FAQ covers the most common questions we receive about sizing, installation, operation, decking, winter care, parts, and warranty coverage.

If you don’t see your question answered below, contact our team and we’ll be happy to help.

• Choosing the Right Lift

• Installation & Setup

• Operation & Maintenance

• Docks & Decking

• Winter & Storage

• Parts & Manuals

• Warranty & Coverage

• General Questions

Choosing the Right Lift

Q: How do I know what size boat lift I need?
A: Choose a lift based on your boat’s fully loaded weight, including fuel, batteries, gear, and accessories. If you are near a lift’s maximum capacity, we recommend sizing up for better stability and longer service life.

Q: How do I find my Craftlander lift model, capacity, or width?
A: Many Craftlander lifts have an identification tag or marking on the frame. If it’s missing, lift width and capacity can often be identified by measuring the frame and spreader bars or by comparing structural tube sizes. Click here to see more

Q: What lift width do I need for my boat?
A: Lift width must accommodate the boat’s beam plus clearance for safe loading. Common widths include 108″, 120″, 132″, and 144″. Wider boats or pontoon models often require wider frames. See our verticals or cabled vertical hydraulics for more info

Q: How much water depth do I need for a vertical lift?
A: Required depth depends on the lift frame height, boat draft, and seasonal water fluctuation. Vertical lifts must sit fully submerged while allowing the boat to float on and off safely.

Installation & Setup

Q: Can I install my Craftlander lift myself?
A: Many customers install their own lifts, especially in shallow water. However, professional installation is recommended for deeper water, soft lake bottoms, or when precise leveling is required.

Q: Does my lift need to be level?
A: Yes. A level lift is critical for smooth operation, even cable loading, and long-term durability. An unlevel lift can cause uneven lifting, premature cable wear, and frame stress.

Q: Do I need a permit for my lift or dock?
A: Permit requirements vary by lake, township, HOA, or state agency. Always check local regulations before installing docks, lifts.

Operation & Maintenance

Q: How often should I inspect my lift?
A: Inspect your lift at the beginning of the season, periodically during use, and before removal. Check cables, pulleys, winches, hardware, and frame alignment.

Q: How often should lift cables be replaced?
A: Cable life depends on usage, load, alignment, and environmental conditions. If any fraying, kinking, or corrosion is visible, cables should be replaced immediately.

Q: My lift raises unevenly—what causes that?
A: Common causes include:

Lift not being level

Uneven cable tension

Pulley wear or binding

Frame interference

Correcting these early prevents damage.

Q: If I change my winch will it increase the capacity of my hoist ?

A: No the hoists are engineered to only have the capacity rating they are specified for

Docks & Decking

Q: What types of dock decking are available?
A: Craftlander docks are compatible with wood and composite/plastic decking. Each material has different durability, maintenance needs, and warranty coverage. to see what is available check out residential ,commercial or rolling dock

Q: How do I maintain dock decking?
A: Clean decking regularly, inspect fasteners annually, and avoid excessive pressure washing—especially on wood—to prevent surface damage.

Q: Can I modify or customize my dock?
A: Accessories such as benches, steps, and bumpers are common. Our dock can be added on to with more sections making platforms and more .Structural modifications may affect warranty coverage—contact us before making changes.

Winter & Storage

Q: Should I remove my dock and lift for winter?
A: In areas where water freezes, removing docks and lifts is strongly recommended to prevent ice damage.

Q: How should I store my lift or dock during winter?
A: Store components out of the water, preferably off the ground, in a dry and secure area. Inspect and service parts before spring installation.

Parts & Manuals

Q: Where can I find manuals for my Craftlander products?
A: Manuals are available on our website by product type. If you need help identifying the correct manual, contact our team. visit our manuals page.

Q: Can I get parts for older or used Craftlander lifts?
A: In most cases, yes. Proper identification of the lift model and dimensions helps ensure correct replacement parts. see how to identify your hoist.

Warranty & Coverage

Q: What warranty comes with Craftlander products?
A: Craftlander products manufactured by NuCraft include:

15-year limited warranty on fabricated aluminum and extrusion components

2-year warranty on hoist cables, winches, and other moving parts. See warranty page.

Q: What is not covered under warranty?
A: Warranty does not cover:

Modified or altered products

Special orders outside standard specifications

Damage from storms, ice, flooding, or other acts of nature

Saltwater use or water-chemistry-related corrosion

Improper installation or misuse

Q: Are motors, covers, or accessories covered?
A: Some components are manufactured by third parties and are covered by their respective manufacturer warranties. NuCraft does not warranty products it does not manufacture.

General Questions

Q: Can I leave my boat on the lift all season?
A: Yes, provided the lift is properly sized, installed, and maintained.

Q: Who do I contact if I still have questions?
A: Contact our team directly for assistance with product selection, service, or support. See our contact page.

Still have questions?
(989) 275-8054
sales@nucraftonline.com

402 Southline Rd., Roscommon, MI 48653