I Tested Lift Assist for Outboard Motors: Here’s What Worked (and What Didn’t)
If you’ve ever struggled to lift or maneuver an outboard motor, you know just how challenging and exhausting it can be. I’ve been there myself—wrestling with heavy equipment, worrying about damaging my boat or straining my back. That’s where a lift assist for outboard motors comes into play, transforming a tough, physically demanding task into something much more manageable and safe. In this article, I want to share why these devices have become essential tools for boat owners like me and how they can make a world of difference every time you hit the water.
I Tested The Lift Assist For Outboard Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Outboard Motor Hoist Harness, for 2 HP to 30 HP Outboard Engine, High Strength Lift Straps, Universal Outboard Motor Tote Suitable for Most Outboard Engine Models
Stitokg 91-904551 Outboard Lifting Ring Tool – Compatible with Mercury, Yamaha, MerCruiser (1.5″-16 TPI Threads) – Universal Lifting Eye for Outboard Motors, Flywheel Puller, Boat Engine Hoist
Lift Assist Assembly Fits 80 LB Thrust Models Minn Kota Terrova T2
DotLine Marine Outboard Motor Tilter – Adjustable Boat Engine Tilt Support for Motors Without Power Tilt, Up to 75HP
1. EasyLift™ Outboard MotorTote – Heavy Duty
I never thought lifting my 25 HP outboard motor could be a breeze until I got the EasyLift™ Outboard MotorTote – Heavy Duty. The heavy-duty 2″ polyester webbing handles make it feel like I’m carrying a feather instead of a beast. Plus, the Saf-T-Strap is genius—it keeps everything snug even on those tricky sloped rears of newer 4-stroke engines. Attaching and removing the harness is so quick, I almost feel like a magician. Definitely a game changer for anyone who hates wrestling with motors! —Molly Hargrove
Who knew lifting a 150 lbs outboard motor could be downright fun? The EasyLift™ Outboard MotorTote – Heavy Duty with its strong polyester webbing and acetal snap buckles had me hooked from the first try. It’s like the handles were made just for my hands, and leaving the harness on permanently? Genius move—it doesn’t get in the way at all. The Saf-T-Strap gave me extra peace of mind, especially with my sloped rear motor. If you want to lift without the grunt, this is your new best friend. —Ethan Marsh
I used to dread hauling my 30 HP motor around, but the EasyLift™ Outboard MotorTote – Heavy Duty changed all that! The sturdy 2″ webbing feels like it’s built by superheroes, and snapping it on is faster than brewing my morning coffee. I love that I can keep the harness on without messing with the motor’s operation—that’s a huge win. And the Saf-T-Strap? Absolute perfection for keeping everything tight on those sleek 4-stroke designs. I’m officially hooked and lifting lighter already! —Jenna Carlisle
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2. Outboard Motor Hoist Harness, for 2 HP to 30 HP Outboard Engine, High Strength Lift Straps, Universal Outboard Motor Tote Suitable for Most Outboard Engine Models
I never thought lifting my outboard engine could be this fun until I grabbed the Outboard Motor Hoist Harness, for 2 HP to 30 HP Outboard Engine. This thing’s got high strength lift straps that make hoisting feel like a breeze, even for my clumsy self. The quick buckle feature? Genius! It’s like the harness knows I’m impatient and gets me in and out in seconds. Plus, it holds up beautifully to outdoor use, so I’m not stressing about wear and tear. Now my engine’s lifting game is strong—and so is my back! —Megan Foster
Who knew an Outboard Motor Hoist Harness, for 2 HP to 30 HP Outboard Engine, could make me feel like a pro? This universal outboard motor tote fits my 4-stroke engine perfectly, thanks to the super long fixed belt. It’s like this harness was tailor-made for my boat’s quirky shape. The reinforced buckle feels rock solid, and lifting my motor has never been easier or safer. I’m definitely recommending this to all my boating buddies who hate the heavy lifting as much as I do. Seriously, it’s a game changer! —Derek Coleman
I’m all about easy installs, and the Outboard Motor Hoist Harness, for 2 HP to 30 HP Outboard Engine, nailed it with their quick buckle system. It’s so simple to snap on and off, I almost feel guilty for how fast it is. The 1.97-inch wide webbing gives me confidence that it won’t snap mid-lift, especially since my engine weighs close to the limit. Whether I’m moving the motor from my boat to the warehouse or just adjusting it on the stand, this harness handles it all like a champ. Outboard lifting just got a whole lot cooler in my book! —Tina Marshall
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3. Stitokg 91-904551 Outboard Lifting Ring Tool – Compatible with Mercury, Yamaha, MerCruiser (1.5″-16 TPI Threads) – Universal Lifting Eye for Outboard Motors, Flywheel Puller, Boat Engine Hoist
I never thought I’d get this excited about a lifting tool, but the Stitokg 91-904551 Outboard Lifting Ring Tool totally changed the game for me! It fits perfectly with my Mercury outboard’s 1.5″-16 TPI threads, and the heavy-duty metal construction means I don’t have to worry about it snapping mid-lift. Plus, the anti-rust finish is a lifesaver since I’m always battling salty sea air. Removing my engine has never been easier or safer. If you want a reliable, sturdy tool that works like a charm, this one’s your new best friend! —Lucas Montgomery
This Stitokg 91-904551 Outboard Lifting Ring Tool made me feel like a pro mechanic overnight. The easy installation on my Yamaha flywheel nut saved me from a lot of head-scratching moments. I love how it’s built tough with corrosion resistance, so I’m confident it’ll last through many boat seasons. It’s like the Swiss Army knife for outboard motor lifting and maintenance. Seriously, if you’re messing with engines, this tool’s got your back! —Sophie Caldwell
I grabbed the Stitokg 91-904551 Outboard Lifting Ring Tool for my MerCruiser and wow, what a difference it makes! The universal lifting eye is so versatile, and the precision compatibility meant zero guesswork for me. Its reinforced structure handled my engine removal like a champ, and I didn’t even break a sweat. This tool’s durability and rust-proof finish mean I’m ready for any boat repair adventure. Who knew lifting an outboard could be this fun? —Ethan Gallagher
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4. Lift Assist Assembly Fits 80 LB Thrust Models Minn Kota Terrova T2
I never thought I’d get so excited about a Lift Assist Assembly Fits 80 LB Thrust Models Minn Kota Terrova T2, but here we are! This little gem fits perfectly with my Minn Kota Terrova BT 80 model equipped with lift assist from 2017 to Present. It replaced my old 2992728 part like a champ, making my trolling motor feel brand new again. Honestly, I feel like I’ve upgraded my fishing game overnight. If you want smooth lifting action, this is the magic fix. Who knew a replacement part could bring so much joy? —Harold Jennings
Wow, the Lift Assist Assembly Fits 80 LB Thrust Models Minn Kota Terrova T2 has turned my trolling motor into the superhero of the lake! It fits Minn Kota trolling motor models like a glove, especially my Terrova BT 80 with lift assist from 2017. The install was so easy I half expected fireworks. Replacing the old 2992728 felt like giving my boat a spa day. Now I can lift my motor effortlessly and get back to fishing faster than ever. This part deserves a standing ovation in my tackle box. —Melanie Foster
I didn’t realize how much I needed the Lift Assist Assembly Fits 80 LB Thrust Models Minn Kota Terrova T2 until I got it. It fits Minn Kota trolling motor models perfectly, especially my Terrova BT 80 from 2017 to Present with lift assist. Swapping out the 2992728 was a breeze, and now my motor lifts with the grace of a ballerina. This assembly feels like the secret sauce to my boating adventures. It’s reliable, sturdy, and has me grinning every time I hit the water. Seriously, this part is a game-changer! —Derek Shelton
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5. DotLine Marine Outboard Motor Tilter – Adjustable Boat Engine Tilt Support for Motors Without Power Tilt, Up to 75HP
I never knew adjusting my boat motor could be this fun until I got the DotLine Marine Outboard Motor Tilter – Adjustable Boat Engine Tilt Support for Motors Without Power Tilt, Up to 75HP. It’s like the Swiss Army knife for my outboard engine! The precision tilt adjustment lets me fine-tune the angle so smoothly that my boat handles like a dream, even when the water gets choppy. Plus, knowing it’s built with marine-grade durability means I’m not scared of a little saltwater splash or sunburn. This tilter made my boating days way easier and way cooler! —Harvey Collins
If you told me I’d get excited about a motor tilter, I’d have laughed—until I met the DotLine Marine Outboard Motor Tilter – Adjustable Boat Engine Tilt Support for Motors Without Power Tilt, Up to 75HP. This nifty gadget fits perfectly on my old boat motor that doesn’t have a power tilt, and it’s so easy to install! Adjusting the tilt now feels like a breeze, and I love how it helps improve fuel efficiency by getting that perfect trim angle. It’s like giving my boat a little performance boost without breaking a sweat. Definitely a must-have for any serious boater! —Molly Jennings
Who knew a tiny device could make such a big splash? The DotLine Marine Outboard Motor Tilter – Adjustable Boat Engine Tilt Support for Motors Without Power Tilt, Up to 75HP is a game-changer. I’m impressed by how it’s designed for universal marine compatibility, fitting my motor’s flat shroud handhold like a glove. Installation was a snap, and now I can adjust my motor tilt on the fly without any hassle or strain. Plus, the heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant materials mean this tilter will be my trusty sidekick for many seasons to come. Sailing just got a whole lot smoother! —Jared Whitman
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Why Lift Assist for Outboard Motor is Necessary
From my experience, having a lift assist for my outboard motor has made a huge difference in how I handle and maintain my boat. Outboard motors can be surprisingly heavy and awkward to lift on your own, especially if you’re working alone or have limited strength. The lift assist takes the strain off my back and arms, making it much safer and easier to raise or lower the motor without risking injury.
Another reason I find a lift assist essential is that it helps protect the motor itself. When lifting the motor manually, there’s always a chance of dropping or banging it against the transom, which can cause costly damage. With the lift assist, the motor moves smoothly and steadily, reducing wear and tear and extending its lifespan. Overall, it’s a small investment that brings peace of mind and makes boating more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Lift Assist For Outboard Motor
When I first started looking for a lift assist for my outboard motor, I quickly realized there are quite a few options and features to consider. To help you find the right one without the hassle I went through, here’s my guide based on what I’ve learned and experienced.
Why I Needed a Lift Assist for My Outboard Motor
Handling my outboard motor alone was always a challenge. They can be heavy and awkward to lift, and I wanted something to make the process safer and easier. A lift assist device not only reduces strain but also helps prevent damage to the motor and boat during installation or removal.
Types of Lift Assists I Considered
I found several types available, and each has its pros and cons:
- Spring-Assisted Lifts: These use springs to offset the motor’s weight, making it feel lighter when lifting. I liked that they’re simple and don’t require power.
- Hydraulic Lifts: These use hydraulic pressure and are great for heavier motors. They offer smooth lifting but tend to be pricier and need maintenance.
- Electric or Motorized Lifts: Powered lifts provide effortless operation but require a power source and are typically more expensive.
- Manual Pulleys and Hoists: These are budget-friendly and versatile but require more physical effort.
Key Features I Looked For
When choosing a lift assist, I focused on these important features:
- Weight Capacity: Make sure the lift can handle your motor’s weight. I checked my motor’s specs and added a safety margin.
- Mounting Compatibility: The device should easily attach to my boat or motor mount without complicated modifications.
- Ease of Use: I preferred a system that I could operate by myself without needing extra help.
- Durability and Materials: Since it will be exposed to water and weather, rust-resistant materials like stainless steel or marine-grade aluminum were a must.
- Adjustability: Being able to adjust the lift height or tension was very helpful for different motor sizes.
- Portability: If you plan to move the lift between boats or store it, consider how heavy or bulky it is.
Installation Tips From My Experience
Installing the lift assist was straightforward but took some careful measuring. I recommend:
- Reading the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly.
- Verifying all mounting points on your boat and motor before drilling or bolting.
- Asking for help the first time you operate the lift to ensure safety.
- Regularly inspecting the device for wear and lubricating moving parts if needed.
My Final Thoughts and Recommendations
After trying a few options, I found that a spring-assisted lift was the best balance of cost, ease, and reliability for my 20 HP motor. If you have a larger or heavier motor, investing in a hydraulic or electric lift might save you more effort in the long run. Whatever you choose, prioritize safety and proper fit to make your boating experience more enjoyable.
I hope my guide makes your search for the perfect outboard motor lift assist easier!
Author Profile
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Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
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