Best Hydraulic Lifts for Pontoon Boats: Compare Top Options for Lifting Pontoon Hatches and Covers
If you’re shopping for a hydraulic lift system to raise pontoon boat hatches, covers, or other heavy access features, you want reliability, corrosion resistance, and easy installation. This guide highlights five practical options that fit typical pontoon setups, explaining who each product is best for and why. Whether you need a heavy-duty lift for frequent use or a compact solution for a single hatch, these selections help you choose with confidence.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Best For | Main Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| ARANA 20 Inch 200 lbs Gas Struts | Heavy lids; multiple applications | Strong, heavy-duty lift with built-in mounting |
| VEVOR Hydraulic Steering Kit | Marine steering and lift integration | Two-way lock and corrosion-resistant housing |
| Ridgeoem Boat Lift Wheel Kit | Boat lift wheel compatibility | Universal fit and durable aluminum construction |
| Hurotoms 15 Inch Gas Struts | Versatile DIY projects; several panels | Multi-use 67 lbs per strut package |
| ARANA Stainless Steel Gas Struts 20 Inch | Stainless steel for harsh environments | Corrosion-resistant, marine-grade durability |
ARANA 20 Inch 200 lbs Gas Struts for Heavy Lid
Best for heavy lids and multi-use installations. These one-piece bracket gas struts are designed to support heavy covers like RV beds, hot tubs, and boat lids. With an extended length of 19.69 inches and a stroke of 8.78 inches, they provide reliable lifting force for lids that require more leverage. The built-in stand simplifies installation, and screws with instructions are included. Use caution to verify lid weight and required opening angle before purchase to avoid over- or under-sizing.
- Best for heavy lids and frequent use
- Incorporates a built-in stand for easier setup
- Potential limitation: installation length and weight must match lid specifications
VEVOR Hydraulic Steering Kit 90HP
Best for integrated steering and lift applications on larger vessels. This kit includes a two-way locking valve to limit rebound torque and a rugged aluminum alloy casing for corrosion resistance, with a nylon hose for straightforward installation. It’s suited for boat setups requiring reliable steering control alongside hydraulic lifting capability, particularly in saltwater environments. Choose this if you want a compact, all-in-one hydraulic solution with sturdy construction.
- Best for integrated steering and lift on larger boats
- Two-way lock helps prevent rebound during torsion
- Limitation: designed primarily for steering systems; verify compatibility with existing mounts
Ridgeoem Boat Lift Wheel Kit – Pair
Best for improving boat lift mobility and stability. The kit features aircraft-grade aluminum construction for corrosion resistance and compatibility with most lift systems. It installs permanently in minutes and stays put, making it ideal for users who want a simple upgrade that reduces maintenance and improves portability. Consider this if you want reliable wheels that won’t shift under load.
- Best for universal lift compatibility and easy installation
- Permanent installation in minutes
- Limitation: wheel compatibility should be confirmed with your exact lift model
Hurotoms 15 Inch Gas Struts
Best for a versatile range of DIY projects beyond pontoon lids. These 15-inch struts offer 67 lbs of force per strut and come as a two-piece package with multiple mounting brackets and screws. They fit a wide variety of uses from RV compartments to boat hatches. If you need a flexible, budget-friendly option for several small to medium lids, this set is a solid fit.
- Best for multi-use DIY projects and smaller lids
- Includes brackets and screws for quick setup
- Limitation: 67 lbs per strut may be insufficient for very heavy lids
ARANA Stainless Steel Gas Struts 20 Inch
Best for marine environments requiring corrosion resistance. These 20-inch gas struts use high-quality 304 stainless steel to resist seawater and heat. They share similar dimensioning with other ARANA models, including an extended length around 19.7 inches and a compressed length near 11.8 inches. They are suitable as direct replacements for various lids in boats, RVs, and outdoor enclosures. Choose this when durability in harsh weather is a priority.
- Best for stainless steel marine applications
- Corrosion-resistant construction
- Limitation: stainless options may come at a higher price point than standard finishes
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Hydraulic Lifts On Pontoon Boats
- Load and stroke: Match the strut’s lift force and stroke length to the lid weight and desired opening angle. Undersized struts can stall or fail prematurely.
- Material and environment: For saltwater or humid conditions, stainless steel or anodized aluminum offers superior corrosion resistance.
- Mounting compatibility: Check bracket design, mounting hole spacing, and whether built-in stands or removable brackets fit your installation.
- Installation effort: Some kits include brackets, screws, and simple instructions; others require custom mounting solutions.
- Maintenance: Look for sealed units and corrosion-resistant finishes to minimize servicing needs in marine settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What load rating do I need for a pontoon hatch lift?
Choose a lift with a load rating that matches or slightly exceeds the lid’s weight and includes a safety margin to ensure smooth operation over time.
- Can I replace a standard car gas strut with a marine model?
Yes, but verify stroke length, diameter, mounting points, and corrosion resistance to ensure proper fit and durability in a marine environment.
- Is stainless steel worth the extra cost for boat lifts?
In saltwater or high-humidity settings, stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance and longer service life, which can justify the higher cost.
- Do all hydraulic lift kits include mounting hardware?
Many do, but always confirm included brackets and screws, and whether additional tools or parts are required for installation.
- How do I determine the correct piston stroke?
Measure the opening angle and lid height when fully opened; choose a stroke that provides the desired reach without overextending.
- What maintenance is needed for boat lift struts?
Regular inspection for rust, leaks, or bent components; clean fittings and ensure mounting points remain secure after wet-dry cycles.