Lifting A Bayliner: Painting Prep For Your Trailer

Lifting a boat to paint the trailer can be a tricky task, and safety should be a top priority. Depending on the size of the boat, there are various methods to lift it off the trailer. For smaller boats, you can simply tip the boat onto its side to paint the bottom. For larger boats, such as the 17 Bayliner boat, you may need to use a combination of jacks, blocks, and stands to raise the boat and access the trailer. It is important to carefully block and support the boat to ensure stability and avoid any accidents. Some boat owners have used creative methods, such as sliding the boat onto its rub rail or using a chain hoist to lift it. Before attempting any of these methods, it is crucial to assess the weight and size of the boat and plan the process carefully.

Use jacks and jack stands to lift the boat

Lifting a boat with jacks and jack stands can be a dangerous endeavour, so it is important to take the necessary precautions. Before you begin, ensure that you are working on a level, solid, and stable surface. Cement is the best option, but if you are forced to use another surface, put something under the jack stands to stabilise them, such as a piece of plywood.

To lift the boat, start by using a floor jack to raise the tongue of the trailer enough to retract the trailer's tongue jack. Then, lower the floor jack to drop the tongue to the ground. Next, you'll need to support the transom and the bow. To do this, use cinder blocks, placing two side by side, stacked perpendicular, and finishing with a single block in the middle and a piece of 2x6 lumber on top. Place these stacks under both rear corners of the boat so that the wood aligns with the sponsons/chines.

Now, raise the floor jack so that the rear corners of the boat come into contact with the stacks you've built, lifting the rear of the boat off the trailer by about 4-5 inches. Then, create a similar stack under the keel, where it runs parallel with the floor, and drop the floor jack so that the keel rests on the stack. Your boat should now be suspended above the trailer by 3-5 inches all around.

To ensure safety, give the boat a bump or shake to confirm that it is stable. If you need to crawl under the boat, always have a spare block or tire underneath to catch it if it falls. It is also important to note that you should never place any part of your body where the boat could drop on it.

Use a hoist to lift the boat

Lifting a boat with a hoist is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a hoist to lift a 17 Bayliner boat for painting the trailer:

Step 1: Prepare the Boat and Work Area

Before using a hoist, ensure the work area is clear and all necessary tools and safety equipment are within reach. Inspect the hoist to ensure it is in proper working condition and familiarize yourself with its controls and mechanisms. Make sure the boat is empty and that all necessary preparations, such as draining the pressurized livewell and securing any loose items, are completed.

Step 2: Position the Boat and Hoist

Position the boat and hoist in the correct orientation. The boat should be centred or slightly forward over the hoist's bunks to evenly distribute its weight. Ensure the hoist's guides and bunks are adjusted to fit the boat's dimensions. If using a portable hoist like GoHoist, position it securely under the boat, ensuring the bow and stern are properly supported.

Step 3: Secure the Boat with the Hoist

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific hoist model to secure the boat. For example, with a chain hoist, you can roll the boat onto its rub rail and use the chain to support the weight. With a boat lift, you can use bow or stern lines to keep the boat in place once it is lifted. Ensure there is enough slack in the lines to allow for full travel without tension.

Step 4: Operate the Hoist

Once the boat is secured, you can operate the hoist to lift the boat. Depending on the hoist type, this may involve flipping switches, pushing buttons, or using a remote control or app. Be cautious and follow any safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Ensure the boat is securely lifted before proceeding with any painting work.

Step 5: Paint the Trailer

With the boat securely lifted, you can now paint the trailer. Work carefully and methodically, ensuring you have stable footing and a clear work area. Remember to allow adequate drying time for the paint and follow all safety precautions, including proper ventilation and personal protective equipment.

Remember, it is crucial to prioritize safety throughout the entire process. Always follow manufacturer guidelines, seek professional advice if needed, and never attempt to lift or work on a boat without the necessary knowledge, training, or assistance.

Lift the boat with a tractor

Lifting a boat with a tractor requires careful preparation and execution to ensure safety and avoid damage to the boat, tractor, or yourself. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to lift a 17 Bayliner boat with a tractor to paint the trailer:

Firstly, position the boat on a flat, stable surface, preferably in a workspace like a shop or yard. Ensure that the tractor is in good working condition and has sufficient power to lift the boat's weight. You will also need a gantry, stands, and blocks to support the boat's weight and stabilise it during the process.

Lower the tongue of the trailer to the ground, which will raise the aft end of the boat. Ensure the tongue is securely lowered and will not shift or retract during the process. Place stands under the stern of the boat to provide additional support and stability.

Now, you can utilise the tractor's lifting mechanism or, if available, a chain attached to the tractor's bucket or lift ring. Slowly and carefully lift the bow of the boat with the tractor, ensuring the weight is evenly distributed. Lift the bow until the entire boat is raised high enough to drive or pull the trailer out from under it.

Once the boat is raised, place blocks under the hull to support the weight and ensure stability. You can now begin painting the trailer, ensuring the boat is securely blocked and will not shift or move during the painting process.

When the painting is complete, carefully reverse the process by removing the blocks, lowering the bow with the tractor, and then raising the trailer tongue to lower the stern of the boat. Finally, ensure the trailer is securely positioned under the boat before fully lowering the boat onto it.

Remember, safety is paramount when lifting a boat with a tractor. Always use stands or blocks to support the boat and never rely solely on the tractor's lifting mechanism. Ensure the boat is securely blocked and stabilised before going underneath for painting. With careful planning and execution, you can successfully lift your 17 Bayliner boat with a tractor to paint the trailer.

Slide the boat off the trailer

To slide your Bayliner boat off the trailer, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure you have a clear, level surface to work on. If you are blocking the boat on an asphalt driveway, it is recommended to put down plywood first to prevent stands from digging into the asphalt. Place wooden blocks in front of the tires to prevent the boat from moving forward when you lift it.

Next, remove all covering strapping connected to the trailer, as well as the front tie-down by the bow eye hook. Remove the rear tie-downs on the transom, which should be one on the port side and one on the starboard side.

Now, you will need to raise the boat. You can do this in several ways, but a common method is to use a floor jack and a piece of 4x4 wood block. Place the jack and block under one side of the boat, preferably against a strake about two-fifths forward of the stern, and jack it up. You can then place blocks between the trailer and the boat. Alternatively, you can drop the tongue of the trailer all the way to the ground and block both sides of the rear. Then, use the floor jack to raise the front of the trailer, ensuring you do not use the tongue jack due to the strain it can cause.

Once the boat is raised and securely blocked, you can start sliding it forward and out from under the trailer. Remember to exercise extreme caution during this process, as you will be dealing with a heavy load. Always ensure the boat is securely blocked and supported before moving on to the next step.

By following these steps, you should be able to safely slide your Bayliner boat off the trailer, allowing you to access the bottom of the boat for painting or other maintenance work.

Use a sling to lift the boat

Lifting a boat using a sling is a common method for boat maintenance and repairs. However, it requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety and avoid damage to the boat. Here are detailed instructions on how to use a sling to lift a 17 Bayliner boat for painting the trailer:

Choose the Right Sling:

Select a sling that is specifically designed for boat lifting. These slings are made from durable materials like polyester, nylon, or polypropylene, and they come in different thicknesses to accommodate different boat sizes. Consider the weight and dimensions of your boat when choosing the sling. It is recommended to choose a sling with a weight capacity that exceeds your boat's weight for added safety.

Prepare the Boat:

Before lifting, ensure the boat is properly blocked and supported. Lower the trailer tongue to the ground and support the transom. Raise the tongue high and block the front of the boat securely. Make sure the boat is stable and will not roll or shift during the lifting process.

Position the Sling:

Slip a sling under each end of the boat. Position the slings securely, ensuring they conform to the hull shape. If needed, use padding like old towels or pool noodles to protect the boat's finish from direct contact with the sling. Space the slings appropriately, following the manufacturer's guidelines, to provide proper support and distribute the boat's weight evenly.

Lift the Boat:

Once the slings are in place, begin the lifting process. Use a pulley system or a similar mechanism to hoist the boat. After lifting one end, secure the line with a cleat, then repeat the process with the other sling on the opposite end. If you intend to keep the boat upright, cleat both slings and adjust the low gunwale to level the boat.

Perform the Necessary Tasks:

With the boat securely lifted, you can now access the trailer for painting. Remember to exercise caution and ensure the boat is safely blocked and supported throughout the entire process. Once you have completed the painting, carefully lower the boat back onto the trailer by reversing the lifting steps.

Using a sling to lift a boat requires careful planning and attention to safety. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions, and if in doubt, consult with a professional boat lift or marine equipment supplier for personalized advice.

Frequently asked questions