Replacing float drums on dock?

[Kansas Bound]

My dock is in water about 8/12 feet deep and the bottom is mud. The dock can not be removed from the water and I am needing to replace the floating drums underneth the floor. Does anyone have suggestions on how to lift the dock to slide the old float out and insert the new float in?

 

[Mike722]

Re: Replacing float drums on dock?

Without knowing alot of info you may not get any good ideas.

On my dock, I have used the front of my pontoon boat to move and repair my dock. I support the dock on the front platform.

You could build a wooden or metal framework to use a come along, but the water is a little deep.

I have seen people use large inter tubes and a air compressor if there is room to get them under the dock.

 

[Kansas Bound]

Re: Replacing float drums on dock?

Here is a photo of what I have

 

[PhatboyC]

Re: Replacing float drums on dock?

I think huge tractor inner tubes with compressor should do the trick.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Replacing float drums on dock?

have you thought about partially filling drums, with water, then pumping out. that way they will sink far enough to get under, and then pump out. and 3/4 plywood on top of big inner tube.

 

[Kansas Bound]

Re: Replacing float drums on dock?

The floats I am buying are foam filled so I can not fill them with water but that was a good idea.

If I had one big tractor tire tube in the middle of one side do you think that is enough or would it take one on each corner on one side.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Replacing float drums on dock?

it looks like there is quite a bit of weight there, i think it is going to be one big experiment.

 

[Rwilli330]

Re: Replacing float drums on dock?

Did similair job last year. You need a helper. If cylinderical drum or square encapsuled foam. Tilt up one end and slid one edge under dock, then put a rope or flat strap sling on float attached to a rope an a come along anchored to oppsite side of dock and winch float in place. You may need to remove some decking to anchor with angle clips in final position. Don't get in a hurry and you may not even fall in and get wet.

 

[jeeperman]

Re: Replacing float drums on dock?

Maybe use Tashadaddys idea and make like a lifting raft out of plastic drums which are cheap.
Arrange them so the bungs are at 6pm and noon. Let water in via the lower bungs until you can get it under the right area of your old dock.
Then when ready, pump air in via the top bungs to lift.
Whats wrong with the old ones?

 

[Kansas Bound]

Re: Replacing float drums on dock?

It was originally foam blocks and then some plastic floats were added to try and help but they just all need replaced. I have tried searching the internet but there is really no information. I think it will be alot of trial and error. Someone said that the boat lifts maybe would lift the dock a little but I do not know how much pressure it would relieve from the floats.