Why Consider Installing Pontoon Sea Legs?
Pontoon sea legs are innovative, battery-powered hydraulic systems designed to be installed beneath your boat. Their main purpose is to elevate your pontoon out of the water when not in use, effectively preventing drifting and minimizing water-related wear. If you’re contemplating whether they’re a worthwhile investment, explore the numerous benefits they offer:
- Lifting Made Effortless: Say goodbye to the hassle of manually anchoring or bumping your boat against docks. With the press of a button on a remote or a simple toggle switch, you can smoothly lift or lower your pontoon, making docking and undocking a seamless process.
- Enhanced Portability: Unlike traditional boat lifts that require docking facilities, sea legs give you the flexibility to raise or lower your boat at virtually any location on lakes or rivers. The key consideration is water depth—your sea legs need to reach the lake or riverbed. Avoid deep, muddy, or silty beds, as sinking into the mud can complicate retraction and operation.
- Prolonged Boat Longevity: Extended exposure to water can accelerate the buildup of contaminants such as sand, algae, and mud, which complicate cleaning and maintenance. By minimizing water contact, sea legs help keep your pontoon cleaner and reduce maintenance efforts. Moreover, they provide an extra layer of protection against typical wear and tear, including corrosion. Scratches or dents on your pontoon’s surface can lead to electrochemical reactions with water, causing corrosion over time. Using sea legs can significantly slow down this deterioration process.
Compatibility of Pontoon Sea Legs with Different Boats
In general, sea legs can be installed on a variety of pontoon boat configurations. Compatibility primarily depends on the size and weight capacity of your vessel. Most models are suitable for boats ranging from 18 to 30 feet in length. However, it’s essential to check specific specifications before installation.
Manufacturers usually recommend a particular setup based on your boat’s construction—either twin or triple tube configurations. These options come in various models designed to suit different operational needs. For rough waters and windy conditions, wider-legged sea legs tend to perform better than narrow, straight options. Always consult with your boat manufacturer or a professional installer to ensure compatibility and proper installation procedures.
Operating the Sea Legs Independently
Some advanced models allow you to operate each pair of sea legs separately—front and rear—giving you the ability to level your boat on uneven lake beds. Adjusting one side at a time can help stabilize the pontoon on irregular surfaces. However, this method doesn’t correct lateral imbalance from side to side.
If you prefer to raise or lower the entire boat simultaneously, most systems enable you to do so by activating both pairs of sea legs together via a control button. This full operation provides a straightforward way to lift or submerge your pontoon in one smooth motion.
Impact of Sea Legs on Boat Speed
While installing sea legs introduces additional weight—typically between 350 and 600 pounds due to aluminum alloy construction—it’s unlikely to cause significant speed reductions. Since the legs fully retract beneath the boat when in operation, they do not extend into the water during transit. The primary factor influencing speed is the extra weight, which may slightly slow down your vessel, but the convenience and protection they offer often outweigh this minor drawback.
Winterizing Your Pontoon Sea Legs
Winterization isn’t necessary specifically for the sea legs. The recommended procedure is to retract the legs completely, then winterize your engine and other electronic components. Store your pontoon in a sheltered, covered location during colder months to keep it in optimal condition. Proper winter storage helps prevent damage caused by freezing temperatures and ice accumulation.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting for Pontoon Sea Legs
Although operational errors are uncommon, occasional problems may arise, such as the sea legs becoming stuck or unresponsive. These issues often indicate insufficient power or electrical faults. To diagnose and resolve common problems, consider the following:
- Debris and Connection Checks: Ensure the hydraulic components are clean and free from dirt, sand, or algae buildup. Inspect all wiring, hoses, and connectors for secure connections and damage.
- Remote Control Functionality: If you’re using a remote and the system isn’t responding, verify the remote’s battery. Replacing it might solve the issue. If not, the receiver unit could be faulty. Try operating the system manually using toggle switches to determine if the problem persists.
- Battery Power: A dead or weak battery can prevent operation. Recharge or replace the battery, making sure it has sufficient cold cranking amperes (CCA), typically around 850 CCA, to handle the load of the sea legs.
- Oil Levels and Hydraulic Fluid: Check for leaks underneath your boat. Tighten any loose cylinders or fittings. Open the hydraulic reservoir cap and verify that the fluid level is adequate. Top up with manufacturer-approved oil if needed.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Boating Experience
Pontoon sea legs are a valuable addition to your marine gear, offering unmatched convenience and protection. They are easy to operate, require minimal maintenance, and help preserve your boat’s condition over time. Whether you want to effortlessly dock at any location or safeguard your vessel from water-related deterioration, sea legs provide a practical and efficient solution, enabling you to enjoy your boating adventures to the fullest.
Leave a Reply