FreedomLift Maintenance: Simple Steps to Keep Your Lift Working Properly

Regular maintenance helps protect your FreedomLift and keeps it operating smoothly. A few simple checks throughout the boating season can help prevent corrosion and marine growth and keep your lift operating smoothly.

 Check the Anodes Regularly

Sacrificial anodes protect the underwater metal components of your FreedomLift from corrosion. Because water conditions vary, anodes may wear at different rates depending on where and how your boat is used.

Inspect all anodes regularly throughout the season. Once an anode has deteriorated to approximately 50% of its original size, it should be replaced. Do not wait until it has completely dissolved, as it can no longer properly protect the lift.

Newer FreedomLift cylinders have a sacrificial anode located directly on the cylinder. Older-style cylinders use a bonding wire instead. When inspecting your lift, make sure the cylinder anode or bonding wire is present, secure and in good condition.

Replacement anodes and maintenance kits can be purchased through the FreedomLift online store.

Use the Correct Bottom Paint

Marine growth can build up quickly on any equipment kept in the water. Bottom paint can help reduce buildup on the submerged portions of your FreedomLift, but it is important to use a paint that is safe for aluminum.

Never use copper-based bottom paint on aluminum components. Copper can react with aluminum and cause serious corrosion.

Before applying bottom paint:

1. Remove any existing marine growth and clean the surface.

2. Lightly prepare the aluminum surface according to the primer manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Apply an appropriate marine primer or barrier coat approved for use on aluminum.

4. Apply an aluminum-safe antifouling paint, such as Interlux Trilux 33, Sea Hawk ColorKote or another product specifically approved for aluminum.

Always follow the paint manufacturer’s preparation, application and drying instructions.

Remove the Lift Arms Periodically

The FreedomLift arms are designed to be removable. As an added preventative measure, remove the arms from the receivers periodically throughout the season.

Salt, sand, marine growth and other debris can collect between the arms and receivers. If the arms remain installed for long periods without being removed, this buildup can eventually make them difficult to take out.

After removing the arms, rinse and clean the contact areas before reinstalling them. This is especially important for boats kept in saltwater.

Inspect the Hydraulic Components

Approximately twice a year, inspect the hydraulic components for leaks, corrosion or damage.

Check the exterior hydraulic hoses and the connections at the cylinders. Inside the boat, inspect the Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU) for signs of leaking around the hoses and at the pump. Also confirm that the fluid reservoir is approximately two-thirds full.

Replacement exterior hydraulic hoses and hydraulic fluid can be purchased through the FreedomLift online store.

If you notice a leak, damaged hose or anything unusual while operating the lift, stop using it and contact FreedomLift for assistance.

A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Regularly checking the anodes, using the correct bottom paint, removing the arms from the receivers and inspecting the hydraulic system can help protect your FreedomLift and prevent avoidable service issues.

If you have questions about replacement parts or maintaining your FreedomLift, please contact our team. We are happy to help.