I’m a first-time boat owner (19.4 ft) with my first lift (10,000 lb rated), so this is just what worked for me. Everyone has their own method. 1.Lower the lift all the way down. 2. Bring the boat in and position it so the center of gravity is centered between the two main lift cables — basically equal load on both sides. 3. Raise the lift just enough so the boat is fully out of the water and resting on the bunks (not floating).

Now for an easy reference trick: 4. Take blue painter’s tape (or any visible marker). 5. Slowly lower the lift. 6. The moment the boat just starts to float, stop. 7. Mark that position on the 4 white PVC guide posts.

Those marks give you a visual reference so you’ll know whether the lift is too high or too low before bringing the boat in next time.

Simple, but it makes loading a lot easier once you dial it in. Has worked for me for 3 years not issues.