Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift Review

Let’s Talk About Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent countless hours wrenching on everything from ATVs to snowmobiles. Proper maintenance is key to keeping these machines running smoothly, and that often requires lifting them for access. The Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift promised to be a solution for my snowmobile maintenance needs, offering a robust and reliable way to raise these heavy machines.

My old setup involved a combination of floor jacks and precarious stacking of wood blocks; a system that was both time-consuming and frankly, a bit nerve-wracking. I needed something safer, faster, and more stable, leading me to research dedicated snowmobile lifts. I considered other options, including hydraulic lifts and cheaper, lighter-duty models. I chose the Extreme Max because it seemed to strike the right balance of price, weight capacity, and ease of use.

Unboxing the Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The steel frame felt hefty and well-welded, and the powder coat finish gave it a durable look. It’s heavier than I expected, but that suggests robustness. I was excited to get it to work in the shop.


Real-World Testing: Putting Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to use the lift came during a pre-season checkup on my Ski-Doo Renegade. I tested the lift in my garage, which, while heated, still gets quite cold during winter. Sliding the collapsed lift under the snowmobile was surprisingly easy; its low profile was immediately appreciated. The lifting process itself was smooth and controlled.

The hand crank, while functional, did take some effort to raise the sled to the desired height. I had my drill and socket standing by, so I quickly switched to that for a faster lift. No surprises, the lift performed as expected and provided stable support while I inspected the track and suspension.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift has become an indispensable tool in my shop. I’ve used it for everything from track adjustments and suspension work to carburetor cleaning and exhaust repairs. It’s held up admirably, showing no signs of bending or stress, even with heavier snowmobiles. The powder coat finish has proven resistant to scratches and chips, despite the inevitable bumps and scrapes that come with shop work.

Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s required to keep it clean. Compared to my old jack-and-block method, this lift is a game-changer; it’s safer, faster, and far more convenient, making snowmobile maintenance a significantly less daunting task. This lift has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift

Specifications

  • Lift Capacity: 1,000 lbs. This is adequate for most snowmobiles, but always check your machine’s weight before using any lift.
  • Jack Capacity: 5,000 lbs. The Extreme Max lift uses a heavy-duty jack with significantly higher capacity than the lift frame, providing a safety margin.
  • Collapsed Height: 5.5 inches. This low profile allows the lift to slide under most snowmobiles without needing to lift them manually first.
  • Maximum Lift Height: 28 inches. This provides ample clearance for comfortable access to the undercarriage for various maintenance tasks.
  • Socket Size: 3/8″ socket. The included jack is equipped with a 3/8″ socket, compatible with both a hand crank and a drill for convenient operation.
  • Construction: Heavy-duty steel with powder coat finish. The steel construction ensures durability, while the powder coat finish provides corrosion resistance.
  • Warranty: Two-year replacement warranty. This demonstrates the Extreme Max’s confidence in the quality and durability of their product.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the lift’s usability, safety, and longevity. The lift capacity ensures it can handle the weight of your snowmobile, while the lift height provides adequate access for maintenance. The robust construction guarantees it can withstand the rigors of shop use.

Performance & Functionality

The Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift performs its primary function – lifting snowmobiles – exceptionally well. It provides a stable and secure platform for performing maintenance, significantly reducing the risk of accidents. The lifting mechanism is smooth and controlled, allowing for precise adjustments.

The main strength of this lift is its robust construction and stability. A potential weakness is the manual hand crank, which can be tiring for raising heavier snowmobiles; however, the drill compatibility mitigates this issue. Overall, the Extreme Max lift meets and exceeds expectations, providing a reliable and convenient solution for snowmobile maintenance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Extreme Max lift features a simple but effective design. The steel frame is sturdy and well-welded, providing a solid base for lifting. The low collapsed height and generous lift height make it versatile for a wide range of snowmobiles and maintenance tasks.

The lift is relatively heavy, which can make it somewhat cumbersome to move around the shop. The learning curve is minimal; it’s essentially ready to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The heavy-duty steel construction and powder coat finish suggest that the Extreme Max lift is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward; keeping it clean and occasionally lubricating the moving parts will help prolong its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift is a relatively straightforward piece of equipment and doesn’t come with many accessories. However, Extreme Max offers a wheel kit (Extreme Max 5800.1051) separately, which significantly improves the lift’s mobility around the shop. The compatibility with a standard 3/8″ socket allows you to use a drill for faster and easier lifting.

Pros and Cons of Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift

Pros

  • Robust and stable construction: Provides a safe and secure platform for snowmobile maintenance.
  • High lift capacity: Capable of lifting most snowmobiles.
  • Low collapsed height: Easily slides under snowmobiles without needing manual lifting.
  • Generous lift height: Provides ample clearance for comfortable access to the undercarriage.
  • Drill compatibility: Allows for faster and easier lifting.

Cons

  • Hand cranking can be tedious for heavier snowmobiles without a drill.
  • Relatively heavy, making it somewhat cumbersome to move around without the optional wheel kit.


Who Should Buy Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift?

The Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift is perfect for snowmobile enthusiasts who perform their own maintenance. It is also suited for professional mechanics who need a reliable and durable lift for their shop. Anyone looking for a safer and more convenient alternative to floor jacks and makeshift supports will appreciate this lift.

Those who should skip this product are individuals who only require occasional minor maintenance and are unwilling to invest in a dedicated lift. Also, if you have extremely limited shop space and require a very lightweight and portable solution, this may not be the best choice.

A must-have accessory is the Extreme Max wheel kit. This will make moving the lift around the shop significantly easier, especially for those with limited space.

Conclusion on Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift

The Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift is a well-built and reliable tool that significantly simplifies snowmobile maintenance. Its robust construction, generous lift capacity, and drill compatibility make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who regularly works on snowmobiles. At $290.69, the price is justified by the increased safety, convenience, and efficiency it provides.

I would definitely recommend the Extreme Max 5800.1045 Pro Series Snowmobile Lift to anyone looking for a dependable snowmobile lift. It has made my life in the shop significantly easier and safer. So ditch those precarious jacks and wood blocks, and invest in the Extreme Max lift – you won’t regret it!

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