Bunk lag bolts

[Boilers2000]

Are galvanized lag bolts okay to use for trailer bunks? Was going to use stainless steel, but can only find 1" or 1 1/2" and was looking for 1 1/4". 1" feels too short.

Thoughts from the experienced captains.
TIA

 

[jimmbo]

I think the ones that hold the bunks on my trailer are about an Inch, never had an issue the 21 yrs I have owned it

 

[airshot]

I always used carriage bolts with the round head then nuts and washers on the bottom. Carpet keeps the heads away from your hull, had way to many lag bolts pull out or fall out but never lost a carriage bolt in my 50 plus years of towing.

 

[jimmbo]

If you decide to try the Carriage Bolt thing, make sure the Bolt Heads are Countersunk well below the top surface of the Bunk

 

[airshot]

If you decide to try the Carriage Bolt thing, make sure the Bolt Heads are Countersunk well below the top surface of the Bunk

Absolutely right but if covered with carpet as most are they will be fine. I typically overtighten the nuts which draws the head well below the surface. Shoukd have mentioned that, thanks...

 

[bruceb58]

I just use galvanized lag bolts. Used to use carriage bolts but if the nut seizes, you will never be able to get it off without destroying the bolt....major PITA.

 

[airshot]

I just use galvanized lag bolts. Used to use carriage bolts but if the nut seizes, you will never be able to get it off without destroying the bolt....major PITA.

I hear ya, when my brain is working right, I remember to smear a little anti sieze on the threads to prevent that but have forgotten on ocassion. Gues that isvwhy they make cutoff wheels.

 

[bruceb58]

I hear ya, when my brain is working right, I remember to smear a little anti sieze on the threads to prevent that but have forgotten on ocassion. Gues that isvwhy they make cutoff wheels.

Yep...which is why I hate carriage bolts on bunks.

 

[JASinIL2006]

Lags bolts work fine unless the bunk boards are too soft. I re-used the boards and lag bolts when I recarpeted my 1997 trailer and they still are holding strong.

 

[liquidlabfx]

Are galvanized lag bolts okay to use for trailer bunks? Was going to use stainless steel, but can only find 1" or 1 1/2" and was looking for 1 1/4". 1" feels too short.

Thoughts from the experienced captains.
TIA

For sure. I have these on a 30 plus year old trailer and just a little surface rust.

 

[JASinIL2006]

If you get good galvanized lag bolts (e.g., hot dipped), you should be OK. Avoid cheapo galvanized bolts.

Or you can order stainless from McMaster-Carr:

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr is the complete source for your plant with over 595,000 products. 98% of products ordered ship from stock and deliver same or next day.

www.mcmaster.com