replacing bunk hardware

[Marc J.]

The hardware that supports my bunk boards looks to be rusted, out of adjustment, and posssibly bent. It's an older type trailer, basically flat with raised bunk boards and rollers on the tongue. The bottom of the boat looks to hold the same angle over the length of the bunk boards (6'-8'). I was considering replacing the hardware with a couple of treated 4x4s cut to the appropriate angle and screwing new bunk boards into the 4x4s. Has anyone seen this done?

 

[Orlando Len]

Re: replacing bunk hardware

Aluminum "float on" type trailers do basically what your suggesting except only a single 4x8 or 4x10 bunk per side is used. The bunk is securely attached to the trailer with galvanized brackets and the top surface is beveled to allow maximum surface contact with the boat hull.<br />You don't mention your boats size and type. Keep in mind the lower the boat can sit in the trailer the better as far as ride stability and launching in shallower water.

 

[rwidman]

Re: replacing bunk hardware

Treated lumber tends to warp over time. Take this into consideration.<br /><br />I've read stories of trailers actually floating when empty. Adding a lot of wood may cause you to have this problem.