Overview
Proper maintenance of your tender lift system is essential to ensure long-term reliability, safe operation, and optimal performance. Marine environments expose lift systems to saltwater, dirt, and mechanical wear, making regular maintenance a critical part of ownership.
Materials and Durability
Presto Marine lift systems are manufactured using high-quality materials designed for harsh marine conditions, including:
- Duplex stainless steel
- 316 stainless steel
- Marine-grade 5083 aluminum (used in rail systems)
All components are treated with protective coatings to resist corrosion and wear.
Despite this, regular maintenance is still required due to continuous exposure to saltwater and environmental debris.
After Every Use
To maintain performance and prevent buildup, it is recommended to perform the following after each use:
- Flush the lift and rail system with fresh water
- Remove dirt, salt, and debris from all components
- Ensure rails are clean and free from obstructions
This routine helps prevent corrosion and ensures smooth operation.
Cleaning When Needed
Depending on usage conditions, additional cleaning may be required:
- If the rail system contains sand, leaves, or debris → rinse thoroughly with fresh water
- Clean the lift using boat or car shampoo and water
- Avoid buildup that can affect moving components
Regular cleaning improves both performance and lifespan.
Annual Maintenance (Rail Systems)
Rail-mounted lift systems require annual servicing to maintain proper functionality.
What Needs to Be Serviced
Focus on the rail system running wheels and bearings:
- Each lifting unit includes 4 running wheels
- Bearings must be cleaned, inspected, and re-greased
Step-by-Step Service Process
1. Remove the wheel assembly
- Unscrew the locking bolt using a 4 mm Allen key
- Remove the running wheel and needle bearing
2. Clean components
- Wash with warm water and mild soap
- Allow all parts to dry completely
3. Replace bearing (if needed)
- Remove the old bearing using a suitable tool
- Install the new bearing securely
- Ensure the bearing does not rotate inside the wheel
4. Apply grease
- Use water-resistant grease (equivalent to SKF LGMT 2/0.2)
- Fill bearings thoroughly
5. Reassemble system
- Reinstall all components
- Apply grease during assembly
6. Clean the rail system
- Use a brush and water to remove dirt
- Ensure smooth movement of wheels
These steps ensure consistent performance and reduce mechanical wear.
When the Lift Feels Heavy
If the lift becomes difficult to move along the rail system:
- Clean and service the rail system immediately
- Inspect bearings and bushings
- Replace worn components if necessary
Heavy movement is often caused by dirt buildup or worn maintenance parts.
Recommended Maintenance Kit
For ongoing maintenance, Presto Marine recommends using:
Rail Maintenance Kit (P/N 1132)
This kit includes:
- Needle bearings (running wheel bearings)
- Bushings (maintenance components)
The kit is used when performance decreases or movement becomes less smooth.
Key Components in Maintenance
Important parts involved in servicing:
- Running wheel (rail system)
- Needle bearings (items 20.4 & 20.6)
- Bushings (maintenance items)
These components are subject to wear and should be inspected regularly.
Conclusion
Routine maintenance of your tender lift system is essential to ensure smooth operation, extend product lifespan, and prevent costly repairs. By following simple cleaning routines and performing annual servicing, you can maintain reliable performance even in demanding marine environments.
