FMCA COMMERCIAL MEMBER C10005
CRUISERLIFT
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Table of Contents
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Can I mount the Cruiserlift System to my Travel Trailer or Fifth Wheel Trailer?
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Can I use my existing receiver hitch with the Cruiserlift System?
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Can I pull my boat or cargo trailer with the the Cruiserlift System installed?
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Can I tow my boat or other trailer with my motor coach with the Cruiserlift System removed?
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Where is the activation switch for the winch mounted for the Cruiserlift System?
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Where do I find a dealer for the Cruiserlift System in my area?
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Why is the Cruiserlift System 40" from the ground while in the raised position?
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Why did you use an electric cable winch instead of hydraulics with the Cruiserlift System?
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Who is responsible for the installation of the Cruiserlift Receiver Mount to the Motor Coach?
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Who would I contact if I have questions about my Cruiserlift System?
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From what location on the Cruiserlift system is the tow vehicle pulling from?
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What is the motorcycle weight limit with the Cruiserlift System?
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What additional costs are involved with the Cruiserlift System?
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What other RV related vehicles will the Cruiserlift System transport?
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How long does it take to install or dismantle the Cruiserlift System from my Motor Coach?
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How many people does it take to install the Cruiserlift system?
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How Is the Cruiserlift System mounted to the motor coach frame?
Can I mount the Cruiserlift System to any Motor Coach?
No! The Cruiserlift System was designed and tested for use on most Class "A" Diesel Pusher, and a limited number of Class "A" Gas Motor Coaches.
Most diesel pushers are equipped with a single continuous chassis frame that extends from the front of the coach all the way to the rear. These chassis frames are generally Semi Truck grade, and will handle the weight of the Cruiserlift System as well as up to a 1000 pound motorcycle. The exception to that rule is if the original chassis does not go the length of the coach, and a smaller extension was welded onto the main frame chassis over the last few feet of the coach. Under these circumstances the extension may not hold the weight of the system and motorcycle. Further investigation would be needed.
Some Class "A" Gas Motor coaches have the original frame from front to back. If this is the case, and the GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) on the rear axle will allow for the added weight, chances are that the system may be mounted. Some coaches may need rear air bags installed. As with extensions on the diesel pushers, this rule also applies to the gas vehicles. Extensions are more prevalent in gas motor coaches than diesel. Usually, the longer the gas coach, the more likely it is that it may have extensions. The majority of these extensions will not withstand the weight of the system and bike. Under some circumstances, short extensions on coaches may be reinforced for added support and the Cruiserlift System may be used as long as the added reinforcement maintains the strength of the main chassis frame.
Generally, Class-C motor homes do not have the frame work, carrying capacity, or rear axle weight rating (GAWR) to handle a motorcycle lift system. Class-C coaches with lifts run the risk of overloading the rear axles as well as the tires, thus creating a warranty issue if these components were to fail. Have people installed our system onto Class-C coaches without our knowledge? Yes! We have only heard about them, but have never heard from these individuals. The old saying of "No news is Good news" is not always true.
If there is a question as to compatibility, the linked Added Weight Distribution Form will help you calculate the additional weight that will be added to the rear of your coach. If you have a bike that weighs 850 pounds, and the Cruiserlift System weighs 460 pounds that gives you a total weight of 1310 pounds. Understand, when calculating the added weight to the rear axle of a coach, the final downloaded weight may be much higher than just the combined weight of the system and bike.
Example: A 40 foot coach has a rear axle to existing receiver distance (#1) of 130 inches, a wheelbase (#2) of 270 inches, and a bike weight (#3) of 850 pounds. After completing the added weight formula, this coach will have an added weight to the rear axle of 2052 pounds.
SOLUTION: Click on the Swivel Wheel link to obtain a solution for Class-A motor coaches that the Cruiserlift System is not an option, as well as all Class-C and Class-B coaches.
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Can I mount the Cruiserlift System to my Travel Trailer or Fifth Wheel Trailer?
No! Travel Trailers and Fifth Wheel Trailer frames were not designed for the direct downward weights associated with the system and bike to be added to the rear of the trailer. Other manufacturers have installed and continue to install these types of lifts onto trailer frames. The stories that are relayed to us is that the installation of the lift systems will do two things: 1. The 1000+ pounds of weight pushing directly downward on the rear of the trailer frame bends the trailer frame. One client has such a system and the rear frame bent so that the slide out will no longer function. We have talked to numerous customers with frame problems associated with a motorcycle lifts being installed. 2. When adding that 1000+ pounds to the rear of the frame, it removes the weight from the front king pin so that the trailer does not track or handle correctly. Below is an email received from one of many customers that had a lift system installed onto their fifth wheel trailer.
hi i am needing more info on your swivel wheel trailer .can i legally pull it behind my 5th wheel trailer with out any problems, such as fishtailing and problems backing? i had overbiltlifts install their lift on my new 5th wheel with the promise of no problems.boy was that a big mistake.the fishtailing is so bad that it is scary. so i need to find a better safer way of taking our harley along with us.
There is a big difference between pulling a boat or small cargo trailer behind a fifth wheel trailer with a 350 pound tongue weight, than by adding 1300 to 1400 pounds of direct downward force, bouncing at the rear of the trailer.
SOLUTION: Click on the SwivelWheel link to obtain a solution for Fifth Wheel Travel Trailers.
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Can I mount the Cruiserlift System to my Pick-Up?
No! The system was not designed for Pick-Up's. We are looking into alternatives for the Pick-Up Line.
SOLUTION: Click on the Swivel Wheel link to obtain a solution for pick-ups.
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Can I use my existing receiver hitch with the Cruiserlift System?
No! The existing receiver hitch on the motor coach is removed if possible. There is a 3-Receiver mount that is installed onto the coach frame. All of the Cruiserlift components install onto this receiver assembly. When the Cruiserlift system is removed from the coach, the center receiver is now the Class 4 receiver.
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Can I pull my boat or cargo trailer with the the Cruiserlift System installed?
No! The system was designed for a flat tow vehicle capacity of 6000 pounds. With the Extended Tow Bar, there is a maximum tongue weight of 75 pounds.
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Can I tow my boat or other trailer with my motor coach with the Cruiserlift System removed?
Yes! The Center receiver on the installed three receiver mount is rated for Class 4 towing devices.
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Can I tow my car with the Cruiserlift System installed?
Yes! The system allows for a flat tow of 6000 pounds which will accommodate most tow vehicles being utilized to date.
Where can I find a dealer for the Cruiserlift System in my area?
Contact us here at Fast Master Products, Inc. and we will assist you in getting the Cruiserlift System. Any quality certified welding shop or hitch fabricator can do the install. The best choice is to check with your coach dealer and ask who they recommend for hitch service on your coach. If you wish, we can help in the qualifying.
Tel: 281-391-6750 Fax: 281-391-6760 Email: info@cruiserlift.com
Where is the activation switch for the winch mounted for the Cruiserlift System?
The system includes a waterproof switch that may be placed in any desired location . There is enough wire to accommodate most location options. One of the most popular locations is inside the rear storage compartment on the coach. This way, when the compartment is locked, the switch is not available for use.
Why doesn't the Cruiserlift System carry two road bikes?
Motor Coach frames will not withstand the weight associated with two full size motorcycles. Generally, this would be about 1800 to 2000 pounds. With that much weight and leverage out the back of the coach, frames would bend.
Why is the Cruiserlift System 40" from the ground while in the raised position?
The 40 inches was designed into the system to allow for the tow vehicle to be as close to the coach as possible. At this height, the system will not bottom out and drag like other 27" high systems when trying to maneuver over steep transitions in streets and drive ways. Another benefit is being high enough to keep most of the road grime and road debris from the bike. The below left photo shows a competitive lift system at approx. 27" of ground clearance. The below right photo shows the Cruiserlift system at 40" of ground clearance. Both photos shown on an American Eagle Coach.
Why did you use an electric cable winch instead of hydraulics with the Cruiserlift System?
Hydraulics are strong and usually quiet. The drawback is when there is a failure with the components. Finding hydraulic components in a small town is shaky at best. If there were a failure with the electric cable winch, these winches are readily available. If the exact winch were not available, another could be substituted in the interim or we could overnight another to your location.
Who is responsible for the installation of the Cruiserlift Receiver mount to the Motor Coach?
We assist the customer in locating a hitch fabrication shop or certified welding shop close to the customer for the receiver install. You can contact the larger motor coach dealers in your area and find out who they use for hitch service on their coaches or trailers.
Who would I contact if I have questions about my Cruiserlift System?
You can contact Fast Master Products between 8:00am and 5:00pm CST and talk to someone directly without reaching a voice mail or answering service. You may also fax or email us.
Tel: 281-391-6750 Fax: 281-391-6533 Email: info@cruiserlift.com
What does the dampening shock do?
The dampening system reduces the amount of road shock delivered to the motorcycle tray while driving over rough roads. The Shock is attached to the system with quick release clevis pins and safety clips for fast removal.
What is the weight of the Cruiserlift System?
The weight of the complete system including the 3-receiver weldment is 450 pounds.
What is the tow capacity of the Cruiserlift system.
The Cruiserlift system has a flat tow capacity of 6000 pounds.
From what location on the Cruiserlift system is the tow vehicle pulling from?
The tow vehicle always pulls from the center receiver hitch, never from the motorcycle tray, as some competitive systems do. When competitive systems attach their tow bars in any fashion to the motor cycle tray frame, they are continuously trying to pull the motorcycle tray to the ground. This puts severe stress on the hitch pins and pivot joints holding the system together.
What is the motorcycle weight limit with the Cruiserlift System?
The system is rated and tested to carry a 1000 Pound motorcycle. Others are rated from 800-1000 pounds.
What additional costs are involved with the Cruiserlift System?
The only additional cost involved in the system is the installation charge of the 3-receiver weldment to the coach. This varies from coach to coach. Competition will tell you that additional material is needed in order to install the Cruiserlift system. It does not take additional material.
What other RV related vehicles will the Cruiserlift System transport?
The system will also handle Two Dirt Bikes or Two Scooters.
What is the warranty of the Cruiserlift System?
One year from the date of purchase.
What type of finish is on the Cruiserlift System?
Baked on Mini-Texture black Powder Coat Finish.
What is the weight capacity of your electric cable winch?
The winch supplied with the Cruiser System has a capacity of 2000 Pounds. With the double pulley arrangement included with the system, this is boosted to 6000 pounds. This is more than enough power to drive the system.
How long does it take to install or dismantle the Cruiserlift System from my Motor Coach?
Once the system has been installed and dismantled once, it usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the individuals capabilities. Competition will tell you that it only takes 3 minutes to remove their system....you try to figure that one out!
How many people does it take to install the Cruiserlift system?
Generally, it takes only one individual to assemble or disassemble the system.
How many tie down points does the Cruiserlift System have?
The Cruiserlift System has 10 tie down points. There are two fixed front mounts, two points on the kickstand tray, four to the back, and two removable rear tie down points.
Is the Cruiserlift System welded or bolted to the frame?
The receiver assembly is welded to the coach frames. There is no bolting to the frames.
Are there lights on the Cruiserlift System?
The system comes standard with a light package that is wired for your coach. This gives added lighting security with running lights, turn signals, and brake lights. There is also a corresponding tow vehicle connection that is wired.
Yes! If the new coach meets the system requirements, all that will be needed is to have another three receiver system installed under the new coach. Your existing Cruiserlift system will plug into the new receivers.
No! We have had a system on the rear of our coach for over two years without any air flow problems. The majority of the system we have sold have been installed onto rear radiator coaches, and we have never had a problem relayed to us.