Let’s Talk About Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift
The Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift promises to be a game-changer for any snowmobile enthusiast who performs their own maintenance. From track adjustments to suspension work, this lift aims to simplify the process with its robust aluminum construction and mobile design. Extreme Max claims this lift offers the stability and flexibility needed to handle a wide range of snowmobile tasks, all while being easy to move around the shop.
I’ve spent countless hours wrenching on snowmobiles, often improvising with less-than-ideal methods. My biggest frustration has always been safely and efficiently lifting the sled to work on the undercarriage, leading me to search for a reliable snowmobile lift solution. After years of using makeshift solutions, I was seeking a dedicated lift that offered both stability and portability.
The initial unboxing revealed a well-constructed piece of equipment. The aluminum frame appeared robust and lightweight, and the included wheel kit was a welcome surprise. The build quality seemed solid, giving me confidence it could handle the weight of my sled.
Compared to other snowmobile lifts I considered, the Extreme Max stood out due to its aluminum construction and integrated wheel kit. Many competing lifts are made of steel, making them heavier and less maneuverable. I chose this one because I needed a lift that I could easily move around my cramped garage.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the lift looked promising, I was eager to see how it performed under real-world conditions. The ease of assembly and the lightweight design definitely sparked excitement.
Real-World Testing: Putting Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Extreme Max lift in my garage while performing a track adjustment on my Arctic Cat M8000. The garage floor is concrete and was dry during the test. Lifting the sled was surprisingly easy, either with the included handle or a power drill.
The lift handled the weight of my snowmobile without any issues. There was no noticeable wobble or instability. The rubber lift cushions provided a secure grip, preventing any slippage.
Using the lift was straightforward. I simply positioned the lift under the snowmobile’s running boards, adjusted the supports, and began cranking. No extensive setup or adjustments were necessary.
After the initial use, I was impressed with the stability and ease of use. One minor surprise was how quickly the lift raised the sled. I definitely preferred using a power drill over the hand crank, speeding up the process considerably.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Extreme Max lift has proven to be a valuable addition to my garage. I’ve used it for various maintenance tasks, including suspension adjustments, track cleaning, and even engine work. The lift has consistently performed well, providing a stable and secure platform.
So far, the lift shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The aluminum frame remains in excellent condition, and the rubber lift cushions show minimal wear. I have kept the jack lubricated and the moving parts cleaned.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply wipe down the frame and lubricate the jack periodically. The aluminum construction resists rust and corrosion. This snowmobile lift is easy to clean and maintain, even after working on a dirty snowmobile.
Compared to my previous method of using blocks and jacks, the Extreme Max is a significant improvement. It provides a more stable, secure, and convenient lifting solution. It has greatly improved my efficiency and safety when working on my snowmobile.
Breaking Down the Features of Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift
Specifications
- The Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift boasts an 800 lb. capacity frame. This ample capacity easily handles most snowmobiles.
- It features a heavy-duty 5,000 lb. jack with a 3/8″ socket. This ensures smooth and even lifting.
- The lift collapses to a 5-1/2″ height and extends to 28″. This provides a wide range of working heights.
- The Extreme Max fits snowmobiles with up to an 18″ wide track. This makes it compatible with most modern snowmobiles.
- It is constructed from clear anodized aluminum with stainless steel hardware. This makes it durable and resistant to corrosion.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the lift’s functionality and safety. The 800lb capacity provides peace of mind when lifting heavier snowmobiles. The lift height range allows for comfortable access to all parts of the snowmobile undercarriage.
Performance & Functionality
The Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift excels at providing a stable and secure platform for snowmobile maintenance. The lift raises and lowers the sled smoothly and evenly, making it easy to perform tasks like track adjustments and suspension repairs. The lift is reliable, sturdy, and easy to use.
The lift’s main strength lies in its stability and ease of use. The heavy-duty jack provides ample lifting power, and the rubber lift cushions prevent slippage. The biggest weakness is that it doesn’t lift from the absolute center, so balance matters when positioning it.
The Extreme Max lift meets and exceeds my expectations. It’s a well-designed and well-built piece of equipment that makes snowmobile maintenance much easier and safer. Compared to using blocks and jacks, it’s a night and day difference.
Design & Ergonomics
The Extreme Max lift’s all-aluminum construction makes it lightweight and easy to maneuver. The clear anodized finish gives it a clean and professional look. The rubber lift cushions are well-placed and provide a secure grip.
The lift is user-friendly and requires minimal setup. The included crank handle is easy to use. I found that using a power drill with a 3/8″ socket made the lifting process even faster and more convenient.
Durability & Maintenance
The Extreme Max lift’s aluminum construction and stainless steel hardware suggest it should last for many years. Proper maintenance, such as keeping the jack lubricated and the frame clean, will further extend its lifespan. With careful use, this lift should last for a very long time.
Maintaining the Extreme Max lift is straightforward. Simply wipe down the frame after use. Periodically lubricate the jack mechanism.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift comes with a crank handle and a wheel kit. The wheel kit adds mobility. There are no readily apparent customization options.
The lift is compatible with most standard 3/8″ drive sockets, allowing users to use a power drill or impact wrench for faster lifting. The included accessories are functional and well-suited for their intended purpose. Customization options are limited.
Pros and Cons of Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift
Pros
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to move around the shop thanks to the aluminum construction and included wheel kit.
- Stable and Secure: Provides a solid lifting platform with rubber lift cushions for added grip.
- Durable Construction: All-aluminum frame and stainless steel hardware ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: Simple to set up and operate with either the included crank handle or a power drill.
- Versatile Lift Height: Wide range of lift height (5-1/2″ to 28″) accommodates various maintenance tasks.
Cons
- Requires careful balancing of the snowmobile when positioning the lift.
- No specific height locking mechanism, relies on the jack’s resistance.
Who Should Buy Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift?
The Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift is perfect for snowmobile enthusiasts who perform their own maintenance and repairs. It is also well-suited for professional mechanics who need a portable and reliable lift. Anyone needing a secure and movable platform for their snowmobile maintenance work should strongly consider this.
Those who only occasionally perform basic maintenance might find the lift to be an unnecessary expense. Individuals with limited storage space might find the lift cumbersome. If you only change your snowmobile’s oil once a year, this may be more than you need.
A good set of snowmobile dollies to complement the lift would be beneficial. A high-quality grease gun for lubricating the jack is also recommended. Having a power drill with a 3/8″ socket makes lifting much faster.
Conclusion on Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift
The Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift is a well-designed and well-built piece of equipment. It significantly simplifies snowmobile maintenance. The stability, portability, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any garage or shop.
At $374.04, the price is justified by the lift’s quality, durability, and convenience. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about maintaining their snowmobile. It’s a tool that should last for years, providing a safe and efficient way to work on your sled.
I would highly recommend the Extreme Max lift to any snowmobile enthusiast. It’s a game-changer that will save you time, effort, and potentially even prevent injuries. Upgrade your snowmobile maintenance game and get your Extreme Max 5800.1184 5600.1184 Pro Series Aluminum Snowmobile Lift today!