Had one on a Hewitt boat lift for a ‘20 footer about 10 years ago for two or three seasons. Unless the wheel is grossly out of round, they kind of work. Had to bungee it to the frame in order to create hold down pressure or it’d slip too much. Used grip tape every 6 to 8 inches as well. Took a long time to lift compared to the direct drive that replaced it. Boat was around 3,000 pounds. If I recall correctly, about $350 compared to $700 for the direct drive. Direct drive was at least 100% better. Personally, wouldn’t purchase one again.I've been half seriously looking into this for a couple years. I didn't know this type existed until today, the replacement box type with wireless remote is about twice as much cost. That's still in consideration. One concern is that my lift wheel is slightly out of round.
Ours was a cantilever too; noisy like a Model T. Wow, they’ve gotten expensive @ $1,400. Best of luck.Thanks, Nashville.
My boat is light, 15' Starcraft with a 50 hp motor, probably not more than 750 lb. total (guesstimate). The lift is an old Hewitt cantilever. But I'd rather invest in the direct drive, I think, than have to be messing with it all the time. From what I've seen, the direct drive DC and accessories would probably come to around $1400 including the battery.