Choosing Boat Lift Solar Charging and Batteries
A DC lift motor is only as good as the battery behind it. Solar keeps that battery charged between uses. Getting the voltage, mounting and wiring style right is most of the job.
Start with voltage
Check your motor label. Charging a 24V system with a 12V panel kit won't work.
Pick the tray for your lift
Lake Lite makes aluminum trays in hanging, cantilever, universal and wall mount styles. Hanging trays with round arms fit rounded canopy beams. Square-arm trays fit square or rectangular beams, and the long square arm versions are listed by hook width (1.75, 2, 2.5 and 3 in.). Measure your beam before ordering. Trays are in 24V dual battery trays and the 12V tray category.
Panel size
Panels on this page run from 5 W to 40 W for 12V and 24V, plus a 60 W panel for 36V. A lift that cycles often, or a heavier boat, needs a bigger panel. Mounting arms come in 48 in. and 72 in. lengths.
Old style vs. HD wiring
Lake Lite's current connector system is called HD. Older kits use red/black connectors. The two do not plug into each other, so look at your connectors before ordering extension wires, diode wires or regulators. The diode wire keeps the panel from draining the battery at night.
Common mistakes
- Mixing HD and red/black wiring parts.
- Buying a single tray for a 24V lift.
- Mounting the panel where the canopy shades it most of the day.
Motors and winch boxes are in lift motors and winch boxes. Questions about sizing? Call 618-294-6905.
Solar Charging & Batteries FAQ
Do I need a 12V or 24V solar charging kit for my boat lift?
Match the kit to your lift motor's voltage. A 12V system uses one 12V battery, while a 24V system uses two 12V batteries wired in series on a dual battery tray. Check the label on the motor or control box, or call Blue Ridge Boat Docks at 618-294-6905.
What is the difference between HD and old style red/black wiring?
HD is Lake Lite's current connector system for solar panels, canopy lights and lift charging kits. Older kits use red/black connectors. Lake Lite says the two styles are not interchangeable, so check which connectors you have before ordering extension wires, diode wires or a charge regulator.
Which battery tray fits my lift?
Lake Lite hanging trays with round arms fit rounded canopy beams, while square-arm trays fit square or rectangular beams. Long square-arm trays are listed by hook width, from 1.75 to 3 in. Cantilever, universal and wall mount trays cover other setups. Measure your beam first.
What does a diode wire do?
A diode wire sits between the solar panel and the battery and keeps the panel from draining the battery when there is no sun. Lake Lite sells diode wires for both the HD and the old red/black wiring styles, so order the one that matches your connectors.
Can I pick up solar charging parts locally?
Yes. Orders can be picked up free at Blue Ridge Boat Docks, 14670 Pittsburg Road, Marion, IL, on weekdays from 8:30am to 5pm. Local delivery runs $100 within 50 driving miles and $200 within 100, or you can have the kit installed with your lift service.