Key Takeaways
Fall is a smart time to inspect lift cables before winter storage.
Fishhooks, rust, kinks, and uneven winding are warning signs.
Small cable problems can become major safety issues next season.
Ordering parts in the off-season helps avoid spring delays.
When in doubt, contact a ShoreMaster dealer for inspection or service.
Why Inspect Boat Lift Cables Before Removal?
Whether you remove your boat lift for the winter or leave it installed year-round, a fall boat lift cable inspection is one of the smartest maintenance habits you can build. Identifying worn or damaged cables before the off-season gives you time to contact your ShoreMaster dealer and order the correct replacement parts during the quieter off-season.
This simple step helps you completely bypass the spring and summer rush, avoiding delivery delays and ensuring your lift is ready well before Memorial Day.
For more information on what else to inspect before the offseason, check out our Boat Lift Cable and Pulley Inspection Checklist.
Sign #1: Fishhooks or Broken Cable Strands
When individual wires within a braided steel cable break, they often curl backward. These small, sharp wire ends are commonly known as "fishhooks." Because they point outward from the cable strand, they can easily snag your skin, tear your gloves, or catch on your clothing during routine use or inspection.
If you spot even a single fishhook or notice any visible broken strands, it means the cable's structural integrity is beginning to decline. Over time, these small breaks place extra stress on the remaining intact strands, accelerating overall wear and tear.
As such, when these broken strands appear, replacement is generally the safest course of action before the next boating season
Sign #2: Rust, Corrosion, or Discoloration
While some surface discoloration or light tarnishing naturally develops as cables age, deeper structural corrosion requires immediate attention.
Keep an eye out for the following during your inspection:
Pitting: This advanced corrosion appears as localized, deep pockmarks or tiny holes in the metal surface (Voliro, n.d.). Pitting eats into the wire's core thickness, creating localized weak points that compromise safety under heavy loads.
Crevice and Internal Corrosion: This occurs in the tight gaps where cables overlap on the drum or pass through pulleys, as well as deep within the inner strands. Because moisture can become trapped in these hidden spaces, the cable can degrade from the inside out, even if the exterior looks mostly clean.
Advanced Scaling: This is a severe form of corrosion where the metal begins to flake, delaminate, or separate into visible layers. If your cable looks like it is peeling apart, its structural integrity is gone.
If you notice significant corrosion, excessive rust, or any uncertainty about a cable's condition, stop using the lift. Document what you see, and contact your ShoreMaster dealer for guidance on replacement.
Sign #3: Kinks, Flat Spots, or Cable Deformation
A healthy cable maintains a consistent, round shape along its entire length. Kinks, flattened sections, crushed areas, or other deformations can prevent the cable from winding smoothly and may place additional stress on both the cable and surrounding lift components.
If you notice the cable no longer lying naturally or appears permanently bent, take clear photos before storing your lift for the season. Having a record of the damage makes it easier to compare conditions during your pre-season boat lift inspection and helps your dealer recommend the appropriate replacement parts if needed.
Sign #4: Uneven Winding on the Drum
Boat lift cables should wind evenly across the drum during operation. When the cable stacks up on itself, bunches up, or jumps across the designated grooves, concentrated pressure can develop on portions of the cable, increasing wear over time.
This poor winding pattern doesn't just harm the cable; it creates uneven tension that strains the entire lift system. Over time, an improper wrap can cause the lift to shudder or put unnecessary torque on the motor and winch assembly.
Take a moment to watch the drum as you raise and lower the lift empty. If you notice overlapping or uneven bunching, it indicates that the system's alignment or cable tension needs attention to prevent premature wear. While several factors can contribute to uneven winding, it's a good reason to inspect the lift more closely and consult your dealer if the pattern continues.
Sign #5: Uneven Lift Movement or Strange Noises
If you notice the lift platform rising unevenly, tilting to one side, or making unusual popping, grinding, or squeaking noises during operation, your components are telling you that something is out of alignment (Brinson Marine, 2021). These symptoms often point to uneven cable tension, stretched wires, or worn-out pulleys that are no longer spinning freely.
Rather than trying to diagnose the cause yourself, inspect the visible components for obvious signs of wear and document your findings. If lift movement feels inconsistent or something doesn't sound right, reaching out for dealer support is the best way to ensure your system is properly balanced and safe for use.
Want to stay on top of your boat lift maintenance needs? Find a dealer near you for expert replacement guidance and to ensure your lift is in top shape.
What to Do If You Spot a Problem
Stop Using the Lift: If you suspect a cable or other component is damaged, do not attempt to lift your boat. Operating a lift with compromised structural integrity puts your watercraft and safety at risk, so it is best to leave the platform lowered until a professional can evaluate it.
Document the Issues: Take photos of visible damage, note when you first observed it, and record any unusual lift behavior, such as uneven movement or abnormal noises. This information helps your dealer better understand the issue and recommend appropriate actions and replacement parts.
Contact a ShoreMaster Dealer: The off-season is often the best time to discuss boat lift cable replacement, inspect related components, and order any needed parts. Planning ahead can help reduce the likelihood of delays during the busy spring installation season.
Build Cable Inspection Into Seasonal Maintenance
The best way to avoid untimely issues is to make offseason boat lift inspections part of your regular maintenance routine. A thorough inspection in the fall, followed by another quick check before launching in the spring, helps catch minor issues before they become larger problems.
To ensure you get genuine boat lift accessories and parts, enter your zip code at the bottom of this page. This will give you a list of authorized ShoreMaster dealers in your area, along with their contact information and driving directions.
FAQs
What are fishhooks on boat lift cables?
Fishhooks are tiny, broken strands of steel wire that split away from the main cable and curl outward. They get their name because they easily catch on skin, gloves, or clothing during routine handling. Spotting them is a clear physical indicator that the cable's structural strength is beginning to break down.
How do I know if boat lift cables need replacement?
You know your cables need replacement if you notice broken strands, deep rust pitting, or flaking metal during your inspection. Physical deformities like kinks and flat spots, or a lift that moves unevenly and makes grinding noises, also indicate it is time for a change. If you spot any of these warning signs, it is best to contact your dealer for guidance on replacement.
Is rust on boat lift cables dangerous?
While light surface discoloration is normal, deep rust that causes pitting or flaking is a genuine safety concern. This advanced corrosion eats into the metal's core thickness, weakening the cable and increasing the risk of a sudden failure under heavy loads. Inspecting your cables regularly helps you catch this structural damage before it puts your watercraft and personal safety at risk.
Can I use a boat lift with frayed cables?
No, you should stop using your boat lift immediately if you discover any frayed cables. Operating a lift with compromised strands places severe stress on the remaining intact wires. This can lead to a sudden break that causes injury or damage to the boat.
Should I inspect boat lift cables before winter storage?
Yes. Inspecting your boat lift cables before winter storage helps identify wear early, giving you time to order replacement parts and schedule any needed service before the busy spring boating season.
Who should replace boat lift cables?
If you're confident in the cable's condition and the replacement procedure for your specific lift model, you may be able to perform the work yourself by following the manufacturer's guidance. However, if there's any uncertainty about safety, proper fit, or the extent of the damage, it's recommended to contact a ShoreMaster dealer for guidance on replacement.
References:
Voliro (n.d.). Pitting Corrosion: Causes, Detection, and Prevention, https://voliro.com/blog/pitting-corrosion/
Brinson Marine (September 16, 2021). What Maintenance Does Your Boat Lift Need? | ShoreMaster Boat Lifts, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxtrxLLtzWg
