Best way to mount bunk boards

J

-JR-

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 21, 2009
Messages
143
Going to unload the boat at the lake so I can replace one rotten bunk board.
Will have it wrapped and ready to install. But what's the best bolt on method
Just lag bolts screws in from the under side , Or
Nut and stove top bolt going thew the complete board .
Doing the bolt&nut through method , I have to be right on in the spacing before covering with carpet . And having a hole threw the board will allow water into the wood ,but using a lock nut it should never come lose.
First method is the easiest just place covered boards on trailer and screw in some 3/8 inch lag bolts from the bottom side with some silicone
But will the lag bolts come lose always.
What is the bast method ?
 
J

JessicaKK

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Aug 20, 2026
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I’d probably go with the through bolts. It’s a little more work, but I’d feel better knowing they’re not going anywhere. Just seal the holes really well before putting the carpet on.
 
A

airshot

Admiral
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Jul 22, 2008
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6,688
I vote for the thru bolts as well. I also do not add carpet to the underside so water can come out of the wood and slow down decay. With no carpet on the bottom the wood can breathe. I also use nyloc nuts so they don't vibrate loose. Use stove bolts to prevent any gouging or wearing thru the carpet from the bolt head.
 
J

JessicaKK

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airshot said:
I vote for the thru bolts as well. I also do not add carpet to the underside so water can come out of the wood and slow down decay. With no carpet on the bottom the wood can breathe. I also use nyloc nuts so they don't vibrate loose. Use stove bolts to prevent any gouging or wearing thru the carpet from the bolt head.
Click to expand...
That makes sense. I especially like the idea of leaving the bottom open so the wood can dry out. I hadn’t thought about using stove bolts to protect the carpet either. Thanks for the tip!
 
Scott Danforth

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
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52,999
countersink carriage bolts, then backfill the countersink area with caulk
 
redneck joe

redneck joe

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Mar 18, 2009
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15,885
for bunks, i like bunk slicks no carpet. you loose the 'stickiness' of the bunks some people like.
 
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