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Step 1
Inspect all the parts of your boat crank: handle, gears, locking mechanism, webbing or rope or steel cable and a hook.
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Step 2
Begin by inspecting the hook. This attaches to the boat so you can crank it up onto the trailer. Test the spring to make sure the hook locks properly.
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Step 3
Unravel the entire length of the webbing and look closely at both sides. Do the same for rope or cable. If you see any frayed, sliced or generally weak sections, replace the webbing. Due to its exposure to weather and water, webbing should be replaced every three to five years.
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Step 4
Grease the gears of your crank regularly. Apply a generous amount of grease and turn the crank to spread it throughout.
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Step 5
Check each gear to ensure it is mounted tightly. If it is not, use a ratchet to tighten it. This ensures the crank works smoothly and doesn't jam.
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Step 6
Look over the spring loading mechanism, sometimes called the clicker, to make sure it locks and doesn't reverse when it isn't supposed to.
