Posted on August 1, 2024

Jet Ski Floating Dock: Expert Floating Jet Ski Dock Installation Tips

Written by HydroHoist Marketing

Jet Ski Floating Dock Installation

Personal watercraft (PWC) floating docks offer a convenient and stable platform for docking and launching your jet ski. Keeping your vessel out of the water when not in use prevents unnecessary water exposure that can lead to corrosion, marine growth, and intake fouling. According to Steven in Sales, intake fouling repairs can cost up to $1,000 or more (Steven In Sales, 2024). 

Additionally, a floating jet ski dock protects your PWC from waves and tides that can cause wear, tear, and potential impact damage. This comprehensive protection extends the lifespan of your PWC while reducing maintenance efforts and costs. Moreover, floating jet ski docks are easy to install, relocate, and add on to, providing a flexible docking solution that can evolve with your changing requirements. 

Preparation: What You Need Before Installation

Before you begin the installation process, gather all necessary tools and parts, including all hardware for connecting kits, brackets, and mooring kits. Proper preparation ensures a smooth and efficient setup. 

Below are other pre-installation considerations:

• Is your dock system robust enough to support a mounted floating dock?
• Can your dock system accommodate the size of the floating dock? For reference, the HydroPort Epic is 70" W x 160 ⅝" L x 17" H and weighs 430 pounds. 
• Where will the assembly take place? How will you transport the floating dock to the launch site if you’re assembling remotely?

Contact your local HydroHoist dealer today for guidance on the best jet ski drive-on port setup for your dock system.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Your Jet Ski Floating Dock

At HydroHoist, we take pride in providing innovative and reliable docking solutions that are as easy to use as they are to maintain. To get a better idea of our products’ ease of ownership, below are the instructions for assembling and installing the popular HydroHoist jet ski dock: the HydroPort Epic.  

Bow Stop:

• Screw the Bow Stop into the HP Epic body. 

Wheel Assembly:

• Slide the axle retainer on one end of the axle. 
• Slide one spacer onto the axle and through the wheel. 
• Add two more spacers onto the axle and insert the axle retainer onto the axle to complete the wheel assembly. 

Wheel Placement: 

• Snap the wheel assembly into the HP Epic body axle cavities. Several axle locations allow you to custom-fit the HP Epic to your jet ski. However, due to the differences between PWC models and hull designs, it may take some trial and error to determine the optimal location for each wheel. 
• The single axle spaces should be on either side of the wheel to avoid contact with the PWC port. You can purchase additional axle sets if you need more wheels. 

Mooring Cavities:

• Place the cap plug into the mooring cavity in the HP Epic body.
• Insert the screws through the cap plug into the threaded insert in the HP Epic body and tighten them until snug. However, do not overtighten the screws. You only need to tighten them enough to retain the cap plug. 

Attaching the HP Epic to a floating dock:

• Place the lock washer and the washer on both bolts. 
• Insert the mooring plug into the mooring cavity in the HP Epic. 
• Hook the mooring bracket into the mooring cavity on the underside of the HP Epic body. 
• Pivot the bracket up to the HP Epic body. You may need a hammer/rubber mallet to tap the bracket into place. 
• Insert the bolt and washers into the mooring plug and tighten until the bracket is snug against the HP Epic body. Again, be mindful of overtightening. 
• Drill four 3/8” holes into the dock face and attach the extended hinge mooring plate. 

On average, the HydroPort Epic takes four man-hours (or two people working two hours each) to assemble.

Best Practices for Safe and Effective Installation

If it’s your first time assembling and installing a jet ski lift, we strongly recommend hiring a professional. While it may add to the upfront costs, professional installation ensures everything is done properly and your PWC gets the protection it deserves. 

With that said, here are some tips and best practices to ensure smooth and safe installation

• Read the owner’s manual: Each floating dock kit may have specific instructions provided by the manufacturer. Follow these instructions closely to ensure proper assembly and installation.
• Work with a friend: If you choose to go the DIY route, having an extra pair of hands (and eyes) can significantly simplify the assembly and maneuvering of the jet ski floating dock. 
• Check the weather: Choose a day with favorable weather conditions when installing the PWC dock to avoid complications from wind, rain, or rough water. 

Finally, you should keep the assembly and installation area free of debris and obstacles that could hinder the process. 

Maintenance and Troubleshooting After Installation

Proper use and maintenance of your jet ski dock lift are crucial to ensuring its longevity and functionality. Here are some key guidelines:

Loading:

• Approach the port at idle speed, positioning the PWC’s bow between the entry rollers as closely centered as possible. Apply the necessary throttle to drive onto the platform until the PWC’s bow rests on the bow bumper. 
• Dismount and connect the strap hook through the front mooring eyelet of the PWC to secure the watercraft. 

Launching:

• Always secure the PWC with a lock or strap before launching. 
• Board the jet ski, shift your weight towards the rear of the watercraft, and apply a rocking motion to initiate the launch. 
• If the PWC doesn’t launch after the rocking motion, dismount. Move to the side of the port, grab the handlebars and seat, and push backward. Once the PWC starts to move, board the watercraft and apply a rocking motion to re-initiate the launch. 

Routine Maintenance:

• Check the dock and anchoring system for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Regular inspections help identify potential issues early and prevent them from worsening. 
• Remove debris, algae, and other buildup from the dock surface. Use a mild detergent and water for cleaning, avoiding pressure washers and harsh chemicals that could damage the materials. In a study of 28 cleaning products, researchers found 530 volatile organic compounds (Science Direct, 2023). 
• Periodically check and tighten all connections to ensure the dock remains secure and stable. 

Troubleshooting:

• If the PWC won’t stay on the platform when driving onto it, you may be coming in too fast, the jet ski’s weight may be too far to the rear of the dock, or the wheel locations may need adjusting. 
• Conversely, if the PWC doesn’t slide off the port, the watercraft’s weight may be too far forward, or the level of the port may be leaning forward when the ski is on the platform. If so, you can adjust the mounting position to change how the PWC sits on the dock. 

If you encounter any issues with your HydroHoist jet ski docks, contact your local dealer immediately. 

References:

• Steven In Sales (July 2, 2024). The Wonderful World of Jet Ski Cavitation + Simple Repairing Steps Dealers Won’t Share. Retrieved from The Wonderful World of Jet Ski Cavitation + Simple Repairing Steps Dealers Won’t Share (steveninsales.com)
• Science Direct (November 2023). Volatile organic compounds emitted by conventional and “green” cleaning products in the U.S. market. Retrieved from Volatile organic compounds emitted by conventional and “green” cleaning products in the U.S. market - ScienceDirect

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