Posted on March 14, 2024
How to Attach a Shoreport Jet Ski Dock to a PolyDock
Dock Mounted PWC Lift: How to Attach Jet Ski Lift to Dock?
Written by PolyDock Products Marketing
Jet skis are synonymous with fun, plain and simple. The lucky ones who own a personal watercraft (PWC) have happy brain chemicals on tap and unlimited access to giggly water adventures.
But to keep enjoying the spoils of riding jet skis, you also need a secure and hassle-free docking solution. For discerning enthusiasts, the ShorePort jet ski dock is the top choice for protecting their PWCs. Below, we walk you through the steps to attach the ShorePort to your PolyDock system, ensuring a smooth and secure setup.
Introduction to Jet Ski Dock Attachment
Before diving into the installation process, let’s review the importance of a securely attached PWC dock:
- Safety: A secure connection minimizes the risk of the dock drifting away due to currents, wind, and waves. Ensuring proper attachment safeguards your jet ski, preventing potential accidents and damage.
- Longevity: A secure connection impacts the overall durability of both your dock and jet ski by minimizing unnecessary wear and tear.
- Peace of mind: Knowing your jet ski is safe and sound on the ShorePort allows you to relax and enjoy your time with friends and family.
Whether you’re a spirited jet ski adventurer or a casual enthusiast, you’ll love the convenience of a securely attached ShorePort PWC dock.
Choosing the Right Dock-Mounted PWC Lift
When scoping jet ski ports, consider factors such as weight capacity, ease of ownership, and compatibility with your docking system. In addition to the ShorePort, other dock-mounted PWC lift options include:
- HydroPort Epic: The HydroPort Epic is designed to fit today’s larger, more powerful PWCs perfectly. Combined with wider walkways, this floating dock for jet skis offers a longer, wider design that provides a more stable platform for launching and docking.
- HydroPort Extreme: Contrary to what its name suggests, the HP Extreme is designed with ease of use in mind. Its simple drive-on design and ample walk-around space make launching and boarding PWCs a breeze. Moreover, the HP Extreme can be attached to nearly any fixed, wheel-in dock, or floating dock system, making it a seamless addition to your waterfront.
Contact your local PolyDock dealer today to find the perfect dock-mounted PWC lift.
Step-by-Step Guide for Attachment
Below, we walk you through some of the ways you can connect the ShorePort to your PolyDock system.
ShorePort front connectors to PolyDock:
- Before attaching Shoreports to your system, make sure the dock is securely anchored. Consult your local dealer for dock anchor options.
- If needed, you can attach ShorePort’s rear pipe brackets to the back side of the PWC lift. Remove the bottom wear plate so the pile guide doesn’t bind up on the pipe.
- You can attach multiple ShorePorts using a 2’ notched connector and a 1’ side rear connector. Then, attach the dock-mounted PWC lift to the PolyDock system using the ShorePort front connectors.
- Slide 2’ Schedule 40 pipe into the pipe brackets and drive it into the ground using a post pounder.
ShorePort side connectors to PolyDock:
- Attach the ShorePort to the PolyDock system using the poly pipe bracket/ShorePort side connector.
- Attach the poly pipe brackets to the ShorePort.
- Slide 2” Schedule 40 pipes into the pipe brackets and drive them into the ground using a post pounder.
ShorePort side connectors to floating docks:
- Attach the stand-off bracket assemblies to treated 2” x 8”s
- Assemble the pile guides, leaving the bolts loose
- Slide pile guides onto the 2” Schedule 40 pipes
- Attach 2” Schedule 40 pipe to the stand-off bracket assemblies
- Attach treated 2” x 8”s to the floating dock, spaced 120” apart center to center
- For more reinforcement, add a steel or aluminum angle and bolt to the top of the dock and bolt through 2” x 8” or add a diagonal brace from the bottom of the 2 x 8 up to the dock
- Attach the ShorePort to the pile guides
PolyDock floating docks feature an innovative modular design. This means you can configure your dock-mounted PWC lift setup in several ways. Contact your local dealer today for assistance and more information on how to attach a jet ski dock.
Maintenance and Safety Tips
To ensure the longevity of your dock-mounted PWC lift and maintain a safe environment, follow these maintenance and safety tips:
Maintenance:
- The ShorePort should be removed in the winter if you’re in an area with ice. Moving ice can cause severe damage to the PWC lift.
- Avoid dragging the ShorePort over rough surfaces. Doing so may scratch or puncture the PWC lift.
- Inspect connections monthly and tighten or replace them as necessary.
- Wash the ShorePort with soap and water. Don’t use a high-water pressure washer.
Loading:
- Slowly idle up to the ShorePort. When you’re about one to two feet away from the PWC lift, gently throttle onto the ShorePort and roll to the front. Practice throttle control to avoid hitting the cleat or going over the platform.
- Once you have the PWC positioned to the front of the ShorePort, use a rope or cable to attach it to the cleat.
Unloading:
- Detach the PWC from the cleat.
- Push it from the side of the PWC off of the ShorePort. The watercraft should slide easily on the rollers.
- If it seems hard to roll the PWC off, refer to the instructions for the keel roller adjustment.
For other questions and concerns, contact your local PolyDock dealer.
Enjoying Your Jet Ski Dock
Marrying the ShorePort with the versatility of PolyDock systems offers a winning combination for jet ski enthusiasts. Whether you’re into solo rides or weekends out with friends, the convenience of the innovative and reliable PWC docking solution is sure to enhance your waterfront adventures.
Glide effortlessly onto your jet ski, explore new coves, and return to your dock for a round of sundowners. Remember, having fun adventures doesn’t mean you need to compromise safety. With proper maintenance and safety precautions in place, your ShorePort and PolyDock setup promises to be a long-lasting partner for all your jet ski adventures.
Contact your local PolyDock dealer today and get started on the perfect waterfront setup.
