Education
Mounted vs. Free-Floating Boat Lifts
Understand the lift distinction that determines the RapidLaunch controller family.
Published August 25, 2026Mounted lift systems
A mounted dock lift is supported by fixed dock, piling, or related infrastructure. The RapidLaunch BL-100, BL-200, and BL-300 serve mounted hydro-pneumatic applications with push-button, remote, and automatic control levels.
Free-floating lift systems
A free-floating lift moves with the water level and carries its controls on the lift structure. The RapidLaunch Viking Series is designed for free-floating hydro-pneumatic systems and includes four-valve control with two-axis leveling.
Why the distinction matters
The two lift styles behave differently and use different control strategies. Photographs are often the fastest way to establish the type, but tank count, valve configuration, capacity, and existing controller information are still needed before selecting replacement equipment.
Use the lift details to make the final decision
Every installation is different. Before ordering or troubleshooting a controller, document the boat’s loaded weight, lift type, rated capacity, tank count, valve configuration, motor setup, and current control equipment. Guardian can review that information and recommend the appropriate next step.