Buying a new dock in SW Michigan

[JDJ_205]

Hi All,

I always appreciate the prompt and thorough feedback that I get on team talk.

Here's a question to throw out there. I'm looking to buy a new (or even used in good condition) dock. The one I currently have came with the house and its old and barely made it through last season.

With many of the marinas closed for the winter in my area, I'm having a hard time doing research on what to buy. I went to the Chicago Boat show but didn't have much luck with information there as everyone was touting their extremely expensive products. I've questioned just building dock sections but would still be interested in buying the structure.

All I need is 40 ft straight dock. The shoreline is sandy beach with a gradual sloping sandy bottom. At the end of the dock, its typically 5 ft with a slow drop to maybe 4.5ft (maybe 4ft) at the end of the season.

If anyone has any suggestions let me know.

Jimmy

[Fast50dad]

Originally Posted by JDJ_205

Hi All,

I always appreciate the prompt and thorough feedback that I get on team talk.

Here's a question to throw out there. I'm looking to buy a new (or even used in good condition) dock. The one I currently have came with the house and its old and barely made it through last season.

With many of the marinas closed for the winter in my area, I'm having a hard time doing research on what to buy. I went to the Chicago Boat show but didn't have much luck with information there as everyone was touting their extremely expensive products. I've questioned just building dock sections but would still be interested in buying the structure.

All I need is 40 ft straight dock. The shoreline is sandy beach with a gradual sloping sandy bottom. At the end of the dock, its typically 5 ft with a slow drop to maybe 4.5ft (maybe 4ft) at the end of the season.

If anyone has any suggestions let me know.

Jimmy

Our Floe is wonderful and looks great!

[mattsn]

+1 for Floe

[Jerseydave]

http://www.overtons.com/modperl/prod...1&merchID=4006

Overton's has dock hardware....build your own. Do you want floating or non-floating?

[CottagerGreg]

i'd go with a fixed aluminum dock for the environment. fairly common and cost effective. go with a local vendor the "earns" your business.

[blakehardesty]

There is a place i buy all lift and dock stuff and it is in SW Michigan if you want to call them. They are very helpfull and will awnser questions. boatliftanddock.com. 866-942-6349
They are in Plainwell, MI if that is close to you they will let you pick up there for free.

[wiltok]

Where are you at in SW Michigan? I am in Sister Lakes - and have a great dock I highly recommend. Can't remember the name of it right now though - DOH!

[JDJ_205]

I am in Sister Lakes as well! I'm on round lake (on the south side just east of the Round Lake Chalets). Where are you located?

Where did you get your dock?

[94PS190]

O'donnel docks in Jones. I know the owner, very helpful and a good guy

[wiltok]

OK - I think it is made by the same company that makes "Roll a Dock" - Hewitt. Looking at the web site, however, doesn't look like they make my model anymore (kind of a bummer - I was thinking of expanding). Here is the closest - looks to be a pretty good design since it says you can put it in with one person.

http://www.hewitt-roll-a-dock.com/do...rs-a-dock.html

I'll take a look next time I am up to verify.