I just picked up a hydrohoist and will be setting it up for my 35 Sonic (non-step, 25 degree bottom). What is the best configuration for setting up the bunks ? I've seen 3 different setups

1. (2) small bunks supporting the stern, and 1 'V' at the bow.

2. (2) full bunks that run between the cross beams

3. Mulitple 'V' suports.

examples of each....

DEFINITELY two full bunks down the length of the boat. If it were mine, it would have two flat boards at the center of the main bunks, for a total of 4.

Take a look at the Myco Cradle boat lifts. Best of the best.

http://www.mycotrailers.com/photogal...2/mode=Cradles

A poor lift setup will destroy a hull just like a poor trailer.

Thanks for the link Brian. Looks like Myco has thier chit together.

I agree about poor support damaging a hull. That's why I want to set it up properly from the start.

2 full bunks. As with a trailer, make sure they extend to the end or just past the transom and make sure they are centered between the strakes.

The Myco cradle is a must, worth every penny, especially with the additional platform on back. Jeff

That Formula pic. Looks Crazy

4 bunks for my boat. I used my trailer as a pattern.
1 thing that I always think about on many of these lifts that have huge tanks, big azz metal and look like they can lift an semi, are the 2) 3/8" bolts per bunk that attach the bunks to the upright supports. So your average lift has only 4 bolts that are 6" long, but are carry the boat load in the center of them. Kinda scary. AND consider that with those nice long bunks that you think you are supporting the hull with the full length of those bunks, the lift upright supports are attached to those bunks approx 1' in from each end. Do you really think those 16' or so 2x6" layed flat are doing any good in the middle? Hmmmm. I consider a good 1 foot area at each support doing the major hull support.

So, the more bunks possible give you more bolts to hold the bunks that support your boat, and more actual area of the additional bunks that are really doing anything.

I have the same hoist. That's the way Hydro-hoist (the company) have always done their lifts: V in the front two bunks in the back. It is a universal bunk that fits all styles of hulls of all lengths. It is a great hoist just the way it is. I wouldn't recommend messing with it's lay-out.

One thing though, make sure when you're lifting the boat out of the water you inflate the front 100% so the boat is angled at a 45 degree angle. Then lift the back up. Otherwise the hoist becomes unstable.

There are 4 nozzles (one for each corner of the hoist) so you need to make sure it lifts even.

I also have the same lift for 5 years (HH) and have used it on my 32 Sunsation & now 35 Fountain, I never changed the bunk set up, I just make sure the boat sits forward enough that the rear bunks rest on the edge of the transom. If you think about it the boat only sits on the lift 5 or so months if your lucky. (in the north anyway)