Boat Lift side rail step covers

[TimbrSS]

FYI, since I couldn't find much in a search.

I have a Hydrohoist 6600 that I bought used. I'm guessing it's about 10 years old, I really don't remember. Anyway the side rails  (pitmans) had carpeted 2x4's that needed to be replaced and recovered. I was originally looking into Ebay's Caliber Bunk Wrap Kit for (2) 8 Ft 2 x 4 Bunk Boards on Boat Trailer http://www.ebay.com/itm/351152843351?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT.  The boards I had were 11.5', so I would have needed 2 of those kits, plus 2 new boards, So I was looking at $140 to do that. I guess I could have installed new boards with carpet for around $50, but probably a few extra hours of labor by the time I'd of had it installed. I decided to call my local Hydro Hoist dealer and they were able to give me the newer pitman covers at a great price ($140ish for both). I pulled off the old boards and installed the new covers by removing the boat, and raising the lift. Then pulled the front bolts out of the pitmans to lift them up to slide the new covers on. They are a little short, and don't cover the entire pitman, but covers the area most used as a step. I'll clean off the front portion and get some grip tape there some time in the future. Super easy upgrade, and nice to know I won't have to worry about replacing again.

BEFORE:

 

AFTER:

 

[Ndawg12]

How was the carpeted 2x4 attached to the pitman arm?  Looks good but curious why you didn't got back with a carpeted 2x6 or 8 making it a comfortably wide step for loading and unloading.  

I'm planning something similar on my lift, I haven't loaded it yet but I'm guessing the boat will be a good 4' over from the dock.  I'll need some type of platform in between for loading, unloading, and cleaning/waxing.  Mine will need to be like 25' on both side in a modified V shape.  But that'll be another thread

[TimbrSS]

The 2x4 was attached with countersunk self tapping screws into the pitman (about 6 per side).  It had the carpet wrapped on the bottom of the board, (carpet between board and pitman. Then the screws installed, then carpet was wrapped over the top of the board and stapled on the bottom where it folded over the board alongside the pitman. The new step is plenty wide to stand on, that's what all the new hydro hoists come with. I didn't want to deal with carpeting boards anymore. I only need the step for me to get in and out of the boat. Most passengers will get in and out with the boat in the water. I'm close enough to the dock to wipe down the boat without using a step.