Looking for a reliable outboard motor lifting solution? This guide highlights the best davit-style and hoist options to simplify lifting, storage, and maintenance for small to mid-size engines. Ideal for boaters who want safer handling, reduced strain, and easier storage. The top picks are chosen for compatibility with common outboard sizes and for clear, practical use in real-world conditions. Below, you’ll find a quick comparison table, followed by detailed product profiles and a practical buying guide.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Dinghy – Lift for Davits | Inflatable or light dinghies | Non-damaging to fabrics; adjustable retainer strap for stability |
| DotLine Marine Outboard Motor Tilter | Motors without power tilt up to 75 HP | Precise tilt control; durable in salt and sun |
| FEIJAZUM Outboard Motor Hoist Harness | 2–30 HP engines | Strong webbing with quick installation |
| GliCraft Outboard Motor Hoist Harness | 2–30 HP engines | Universal fit and corrosion-resistant materials |
| EasyLift Universal MotorTote | 2–15 HP engines | American-made, simple quick-release design |
Dinghy – Lift for Davits
The Dinghy – Lift is designed for davits used with small boats or inflatables. It includes a long retainer strap that adjusts to steady the craft during lifting and protects inflatable fabrics from wire harness damage. The nylon webbing legs add stability during hoisting. Best for buyers who need a gentle, fabric-safe lift for dinghies or inflatables and want straightforward, adjustable support.
Who it’s best for: boat owners with inflatables or soft-sided craft needing a non-abrasive lift. Why selected: it reduces fabric wear and offers easy strap adjustments. Caution: not a high-load hoist for heavier engines or rigid hulls; use within its stated weight limits and with proper davit setup.
DotLine Marine Outboard Motor Tilter
The DotLine Outboard Motor Tilter is a tilt-support accessory for motors without power tilt systems. It supports engines up to 75 HP and provides precision tilt adjustment for better handling, fuel efficiency, and performance. Built with marine-grade, corrosion-resistant materials to withstand harsh conditions. Best for: boaters with smaller to mid-size engines lacking automatic tilt and who want repeatable trim control. Caution: verify shroud handhold compatibility before purchase to ensure a snug fit.
FEIJAZUM Outboard Motor Hoist Harness
The FEIJAZUM hoist harness is designed for 2–30 HP outboards and weighs under 150 pounds. It uses a wide 1.97-inch webbing with reinforced buckles for high strength and durability in outdoor use. Quick buckle design enables fast installation and semi-permanent fixation without hindering engine operation. Best for: sailors or dock workers needing fast, reliable lifting with common small engines. Limitation: may not accommodate larger, heavier engines beyond 30 HP.
YaBeHo Outboard Lifting Ring Tool Replacement
The YaBeHo lifting ring tool is designed for 1.5” threaded flywheels, compatible with most non-Verado Mercury outboards. It replaces typical lifting eye components and supports secure removal and maintenance tasks. Best for: boat technicians or DIYers who need a reliable lifting eye replacement with durable iron construction. Limitation: limited to specific flywheel threading and compatible models listed in the description.
GliCraft Outboard Motor Hoist Harness
The GliCraft hoist harness uses universal compatibility to lift 2–30 HP engines. It features high-strength 1.97-inch wide polyester webbing for abrasion, saltwater, and UV resistance. The design aims for a hassle-free installation with a secure, permanent setup that minimizes adjustments during maintenance or storage. Best for: users who want a robust, long-term hoist solution for frequent lifting. Limitation: check engine configuration compatibility with the storage buckles before use.
EasyLift Universal MotorTote
The EasyLift Universal MotorTote is designed for outboard motors 2 HP to 15 HP or up to 100 pounds. It uses heavy-duty 1.5–2 inch polyester webbing with quick-release buckles for fast attachment and removal. Best for: budget-conscious users with smaller engines seeking a simple, American-made tote. Limitation: may not support heavier four-stroke engines near 30 HP or larger models.
EasyLift Outboard MotorTote Universal
The EasyLift Universal MotorTote is built for 2 HP to 15 HP engines and emphasizes American manufacturing. It uses heavy-duty polyester webbing and fast, secure attachment with acetal snap buckles. Best for: buyers who value domestically produced products and straightforward operation. Limitation: not ideal for higher horsepower engines beyond 15 HP.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Outboard Lifting Solutions
- Engine horsepower compatibility: Match the hoist, tilter, or lifting ring to your engine size to avoid overloading.
- Attachment method: Consider quick-connect buckles versus permanent fixtures based on how often you lift.
- Material durability: Look for corrosion-resistant, UV-stable materials for saltwater use.
- Installation effort: Some systems offer semi-permanent installation; others are portable. Choose based on storage space and seasonality.
- Compatibility with hull or davit: Confirm the davit or hoist design supports your mounting points and weight distribution.
- Fabric impact: For inflatables or fabrics, select products with protective straps or non-abrasive designs to prevent damage.
FAQ
- What engine size do these hoists support? Most options cover 2–30 HP engines, with some tilters supporting up to 75 HP. Always verify weight and mounting compatibility.
- Are these devices suitable for saltwater? Yes, many are built with marine-grade, corrosion-resistant materials designed for saltwater and sun exposure.
- Can I use a hoist on a plastic or inflatable dinghy? Yes, but use products with protective strap designs to avoid fabric damage.
- Do these come with installation hardware? Some units include quick buckles or limited mounting hardware; check product details for what is included.
- Which solution is best for frequent use? Universal hoist harnesses (2–30 HP) with durable webbing and secure buckles are typically best for frequent lifting and storage.
- Is a separate davit required? A compatible davit is typically needed to provide the lifting point and frame for hoists and tilters.