The Lifetime Adjustable In-Ground Basketball System, specifically the 54-inch polycarbonate model, provides a customizable basketball experience for residential use. This system features an in-ground base for stability, a shatterproof backboard, and an adjustable height mechanism. Installation requires significant concrete work and multiple steps, best undertaken with at least three people. The system offers a 5-year limited warranty and is designed for lasting performance with minimal maintenance.
System Overview and Features
The Lifetime 54-inch Adjustable In-Ground Basketball System is designed for both recreational and more serious play. Key features include a shatterproof, steel-framed polycarbonate backboard, a Slam-It Pro® rim, and a 3-piece powder-coated steel round pole. The Power Lift® adjustment mechanism allows for effortless height adjustments between 7.5 and 10 feet. The system also includes an all-weather net and fade-resistant graphics. A 5-year limited warranty is provided.
The backboard is constructed from a virtually unbreakable polycarbonate material, offering excellent rebound characteristics. The Slam-It Pro® rim features an arena-style wraparound brace and solid steel construction, designed to withstand aggressive play. The pole utilizes a patented friction-weld joint to minimize unwanted movement and is finished with a weather-resistant powder coating.
Installation Requirements and Preparation
Proper installation is crucial for the stability and longevity of the basketball system. The documentation specifies a requirement of at least 493 pounds (224 kg) of cement mix to fill a volume of 3.7 cubic feet (0.105 cubic meters). Concrete requires a curing period of 3 or more days before proceeding with the remaining assembly steps. It is recommended that at least three people are involved in the installation process.
Before beginning assembly, it is important to separate the hardware bags and their contents. If any parts are missing, Lifetime Customer Service should be contacted. Careful removal of any excess powder coating buildup from inside the pole holes may be necessary. The system arrives in three separate boxes.
Tools and Hardware Required
The following tools are required for installation:
- 1/2" (13 mm) wrench (x2)
- 7/16" (11 mm) wrench (x2)
- 9/16" (14 mm) wrench (x2)
- 3/4" (19 mm) wrench (x1)
- Rebar (3')
- Cement Mix
Specific hardware components are identified in the parts list within the documentation, including various grades of bolts, washers, and spacers. The hardware identifier section details the specific sizes and quantities of each component.
Assembly Procedure
The assembly process is divided into several stages, as outlined in the provided documentation. These stages include:
- Initial Setup: This involves familiarizing oneself with the components and ensuring all necessary parts are present.
- Pole Assembly: This stage focuses on assembling the 3-piece steel pole.
- Backboard to Rim Assembly: This involves attaching the Slam-It Pro® rim to the backboard.
- Backboard to Pole Assembly: This stage connects the assembled backboard and rim to the pole.
- Handle Assembly: This involves assembling the handle used for height adjustment.
- Final Assembly: This completes the installation process and prepares the system for use.
Detailed instructions and diagrams are provided within the documentation for each step. The documentation highlights areas requiring special attention during assembly.
Height Adjustment Operation
The Lifetime basketball system utilizes a Power Lift® adjustment mechanism, allowing for easy height adjustments. To raise or lower the hoop, the handle is grasped, and the handle is pressed down while simultaneously lifting or lowering the backboard. The system offers infinite height adjustments between 7.5 and 10 feet, accommodating players of various ages and skill levels. The documentation notes that the adjustment can be performed with one hand.
Maintenance and Warranty Information
The Lifetime Adjustable In-Ground Basketball System is designed for long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance. The steel pole is protected by a powder-coated, weather-resistant finish. Regular inspection of the hardware and tightening of bolts may be necessary to ensure stability.
Lifetime Products offers a limited lifetime factory warranty on the basketball equipment. The manufacturer reserves the right to make substitutions for warranty claims if parts are unavailable or obsolete. The warranty details are available upon product registration.
Parts Identification
The documentation includes detailed parts identifiers, showing diagrams of each component at various magnification levels (10%, 5%, and actual size). These identifiers assist in correctly identifying and assembling the various parts of the system. Key components identified include:
- Pole sections (Upper Extension Arm, Lower Extension Arm)
- Backboard
- Rim (Slam-It Pro®)
- Gas Spring
- Gas Spring Cover
- Lift Handle
- Various bolts, washers, and spacers.
Hardware Identification
The documentation provides a comprehensive hardware identifier section, detailing the various bolts, washers, and spacers used in the assembly process. Each component is shown at actual size, along with its corresponding part number and description. This section is crucial for ensuring the correct hardware is used in each step of the assembly process.
Safety Precautions
The documentation includes several safety warnings. Failure to comply with these warnings could result in broken bones, cuts, nerve damage, spinal cord injury, brain injury, or death. Children should not be allowed to adjust the unit. The documentation also warns against failing to comply with the provided warnings.
Conclusion
The Lifetime 54-inch Adjustable In-Ground Basketball System offers a durable and customizable basketball solution for residential use. Proper installation, following the detailed instructions provided, is essential for ensuring the system’s stability and longevity. The Power Lift® adjustment mechanism allows for easy height adjustments, making it suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. The system is backed by a 5-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind.