2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

[gunner1]

I'm going to be replacing the rollers on my trailer soon with bunks. I've got the brackest, but I'm unsure if I should use 2x4's or 2x6's. The boat is a 16' aluminum starcraft from 1967.

 

[Randy169]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

Go with the 2x6's. It's what I've used whenever I have replaced bunks and made new ones. They give a broader surface for the boat to rest on - which is always a good thing in my book.

 

[ebry710]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

I agree, 2x6's.

 

[dave11]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

2x6 Go with the composite bunks.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

i disagree on composite material, doesn't have the strength for the span. but on aluminum boats, i use 2x6 painted 3 coats, then carpeted. turned on the flat. more support surface.

 

[steelespike]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

I've allways used 2 X 4 on edge. On the flat is more surface but unless backed up may flex.I've hauled wood and aluminum from 12 to 25 ft.I use PT, seal or paint to your preference.PT will outlast you and your trailer regardless.

 

[jeeperman]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

If the surface of the boat where the bunks will be has any amount of curve to it, you still only have single line of contact with the surface of the bunk.

So it makes no difference if the bunk is 2" or 12" wide.

 

[hankll]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

2x6's but get the treated lumber and seal them before covering them with the carpet you put on. I put the treated 2x6's on my trailer and even bought treated plywood for the the fender insides for the carpet to mount onto.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

I would never use a 2x4 on edge. You want more surface area not less. You also want some flex to conform to the curve of the hull.

My choice is 2x6.

 

[External Combustion]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

More contact between the hull and the bunks? Flex that matches the hull? Cover those 2 X 6's with a layer of truck tread. Pick up some from the highway if necessary and be earth friendly. Then cover the tread and board with "Astro Turf". The hull will rest comfortably on the giving surface of the carpet/rubber and give you no problems.

I have done this for vessels between 500 lbs and 20K lbs. I hate hull hogging and this will help prevent it.

 

[ebry710]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

The new pressure treated wood bleeds. I do not think it matters what type of 2x6 wood. The carpet will go before the wood anyway and wood is cheap (at least it is now). To me flat, flexing wood to me acts like a shock absorber.

 

[oops!]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

2x6 on flat.


a 2x4 on edge will beat the stuffings outta the hull

you want a little flex

 

[cbear34]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

I just redid my bunks. 2X6 treated on the flat. The boards will form to the hull curve.

 

[ebry710]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

I never seen or heard of 2x6's on the flat ever braking. I guess if it were rotten or previously damaged maybe it could.

 

[hankll]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

ONLY WAY THEY'D BREAK IS IF IT WERE NEARLY ROTTEN AND YOU CAME ONTO THE BUNKS WITH TOO MUCH SPEED - oops hit all caps key again, sorry! Fingers are too big....

 

[ebry710]

Re: 2x4's or 2x6's for bunks?

That is what I feel.