Air lifts, sometimes called pneumatic lifts, are one of the most common boat lifts on Lake of the Ozarks. Instead of cables or hydraulic cylinders, they use sealed tanks under the cradle. A blower pushes air into the tanks to float the boat up, and opening a valve lets the air out to lower it. They handle changing water levels well, but leaks, worn blowers and valve problems are common as they age.
Signs your air lift needs repair
- The boat slowly settles back into the water after you lift it
- One side rides higher than the other
- Lifting takes much longer than it used to
- The blower runs constantly or gets hot
- You hear air escaping or see bubbles around the tanks
- The lift won’t come up at all
What we fix
- Air leaks in tanks, fittings, valves and hoses
- Blowers that are weak, noisy or failed
- Valves and controls that stick or won’t hold
- Uneven lifting caused by one tank losing air
- Bunks and cradles that need adjusting or replacing for a new boat
- Lift mounting to the dock frame after storm damage
Don’t wait on a slow leak
A small leak puts extra work on the blower every time you lift, and a lift that drops unexpectedly can damage the boat or the dock. If your lift is acting up, request a free estimate and mention the lift brand and boat size if you know them.
For hydraulic, cable and PWC lifts, see boat lift repair. For more on lift types, read air lift vs. hydraulic boat lift.
Common questions
Why does my air lift slowly sink overnight?
Almost always an air leak somewhere in the system, such as a cracked tank, a worn valve, a loose fitting or a damaged hose. A tech can pressure-test the system to find it.
Why does my boat sit higher on one side?
One tank is holding less air than the other, usually because of a leak or a valve problem on that side, or the bunks need adjusting for the boat's weight.
My blower runs but the lift won't come up. What's wrong?
The blower may be worn and not producing enough air, a valve may be stuck, or a hose may be split. Stop running it and have it checked, since a blower running constantly can burn out.