Best Outboard Motor Lifting Davit Options for Boats and Small Craft
Answer: This guide presents top outboard motor lifting solutions designed for davits or hoists, aimed at boaters who need safe, reliable ways to lift and store small to mid-size engines. Best for: small-boat owners, sailors, and dockside operators needing portable or mountable lifting aids. The selections emphasize secure straps, durable materials, and compatibility with engines in the 2–30 HP range or up to 75 HP for certain tilter devices.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Dinghy – Lift™for Davits | Inflatable-draft dinghies and light boats | Stabilizing retainer strap reduces movement during lifting |
| DotLine Marine Outboard Motor Tilter | Motors without power tilt, up to 75 HP | Precise tilt adjustment for trim and handling |
| FEIJAZUM Outboard Motor Hoist Harness | 2–30 HP engines | High-strength webbing and quick buckle for fast setup |
| GliCraft Outboard Motor Hoist Harness Set | 2–30 HP engines, universal fit | Durable polyester webbing with storage buckles |
| EasyLift Outboard MotorTote – Heavy Duty | 15–30 HP or up to 150 lbs | Heavy-duty webbing for larger motors |
Dinghy – Lift™for Davits
The Dinghy – Lift™for Davits uses nylon webbing legs and a long retainer strap to steady the boat when lifting. It is designed to avoid damage to inflatable fabrics that wire harnesses might cause. This makes it a suitable choice for light, inflatable dinghies typically used as tender vessels. Best for owners of inflatable craft seeking a gentle, strap-based lift that minimizes abrasion. Limitation: may not support heavier, rigid-hulled dinghies or boats beyond typical tender weights.
DotLine Marine Outboard Motor Tilter
DotLine’s universal Marine Outboard Motor Tilter is designed for engines without power tilt systems and fits motors up to 75 HP with flat shroud handholds. It provides precise tilt adjustment to improve boat handling, fuel efficiency, and performance, especially in challenging water conditions. Best for boaters with older or non-tilt engines who need controlled trimming. Caution: may require manual setup and secure mounting on compatible transoms or davits.
FEIJAZUM Outboard Motor Hoist Harness
This harness is designed for 2–30 HP engines weighing under 150 pounds, made from 1.97-inch wide webbing with reinforced buckles. It emphasizes ease of installation with quick buckles for rapid setup and semi-permanent fixation without interfering with engine operation. Best for quick, repeated lifts on small outboards. Limitation: not intended for engines exceeding 150 pounds or higher horsepower beyond stated range.
YaBeHo Outboard Lifting Ring Tool Replacement
YaBeHo’s lifting ring tool replacement is designed for 1.5-inch threaded flywheels on non-Verado Mercury outboards. It includes AMT0022 universal lifting ring and adapters, replacing OEM parts. It supports lifting under controlled loads with a sturdy iron build. Best for Mercury outboards that require a direct lifting eye. Limitation: replacement parts compatibility is focused on certain flywheel designs; verify compatibility with your specific engine model.
EasyLift™ Outboard MotorTote – Heavy Duty
EasyLift’s Heavy Duty MotorTote is designed for 15–30 HP motors, with 2″ polyester webbing handles. It provides a robust option for lifting larger, heavier two-stroke or four-stroke engines. Best for boaters needing a strong tote that can handle bigger small outboards. Caution: ensure compatibility with your engine’s mounting and balance when lifting to prevent torque on the davit or mounting hardware.
EasyLift® Outboard MotorTote – Universal
EasyLift’s universal tote covers smaller engines from 2 HP up to 15 HP, using a 1-1/2″ polyester webbing. It’s American-made and known for quick attachment and removal with reliable snap buckles. Best for compact, light outboards where fast setup and domestic manufacturing matter. Limitation: lighter duty compared to heavier 15–30 HP models; verify engine weight and balance before lifting.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
What size outboard do you need to lift? Confirm horsepower and weight limits for any harness, hoist, or tilter. Choose a solution that matches your engine size and the lifting method (strap, ring, or built-in davit attachment).
What kind of mounting is on your boat? Some devices are designed for universal use, while others assume a fixed mount or transom compatibility. Check your davit or hoist setup and ensure secure alignment with the lifting point.
Materials and durability matter in saltwater environments. Look for corrosion-resistant finishes, UV resistance, and heavy-duty webbing that won’t stretch or abrade under load.
Ease of use and installation time. Quick-connect buckles and minimal adjustments save time during seasonal storage or routine maintenance.
Maintenance and replacements. Consider availability of replacement parts (rings, buckles, adapters) and whether the product includes critical components (lifts, straps, rings) used in daily operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the safest way to lift an outboard with a davit? Use a purpose-built hoist harness or lifting ring designed for your engine weight, ensure secure attachment points, and never exceed load ratings.
- Can I lift up to 75 HP engines with these devices? Some tilt systems and tilters support up to 75 HP, while most hoist harnesses target 2–30 HP. Verify weight, balance, and manufacturer recommendations before use.
- Are these products suitable for inflatable dinghies? Yes, some options include gentler strap-based lifting that minimizes fabric damage, making them appropriate for inflatable tenders.
- Do I need a universal kit or engine-specific parts? Universal lifting rings and harnesses offer broad compatibility, but verify thread sizes, flywheel designs, and engine mounting requirements for your model.
- What maintenance is required for lifting gear? Regularly inspect straps and buckles for wear, ensure fasteners are secure, and store in a dry, clean area to extend life in marine environments.
- Will these solutions affect engine operation during lifting? Choose non-interfering harnesses and quick-buckle designs that keep control cables and mounting points clear of lifting hardware.