Help With Trailer Modification

[DukesFin]

I've got a single carpeted v-bunk on the front of my aluminum I-Beam trailer right now but it's too far back and the wood in it is rotting... I'd like to replace that "system" with two 2X4 carpeted bunks that run from the point of the existing v-bunk, forward 3 or 4 feet (obviously, one for each side of the keel).

I've found the brackets I need that attach to the trailer's front cross bars, but here's the problem... The trailer does not have any cross bars in front! The only one it has is a 2X4X30" "c-channel" that holds the current rotting 4X4 v-bunk.

Where can I find some cross members and what size do you think I need? It's going to be a bit "low" so I'm thinking I might need V-cross members...

I'm open to any thoughts, comments or suggestions with this. The current v-bunk that is on there is causing a hook in my hull and I'm just not a fan of it now!

Here's a picture of the rig:

 

[Knightgang]

Re: Help With Trailer Modification

Duke, since you have the boat off of the trailer, how about some pictures of the trailer with the V-bunk in view and so we can see how to attach or add crossmembers...

I have a similar trailer and I only have a V-guide on the bow, made of PVC and starboard. Works great for me, but if you are hooking, could be a problem. Could the hooking be due to the additional weight of the wet foam you had, and once the rebuild is done, might be a non issue.

Also, your v-bunk may not have been in the correct line to keep the keel perfectly in line. just a thought...

 

[DukesFin]

Re: Help With Trailer Modification

Of course, I've been pondering this issue for a couple of weeks now and it dawns on me after I make the post...

Why don't I use the same "system", but move it forward so the boat is cradled by the v-bunk on the actual keel, but in a more structural place (more forward)...

Of course, I'd be making a new wooden bunk and new carpet, but that way I think it will solve the hook issue, keep me "self-centering" and spreading the weight more evenly by moving it forward?

I'll take some pictures of the trailer after work and post them. I didn't even think about taking pictures when I was putting that last coat on the hull at 5AM! DUH!

 

[Knightgang]

Re: Help With Trailer Modification

My bow guide (or bow cradle) is similar to this one...

 

[DukesFin]

Re: Help With Trailer Modification

In lieu of an actual photo, here's what mine looks like...

 

[rbh]

Re: Help With Trailer Modification

I would first take the boat and trailer to a fabricator and get him cut and bend and bow a piece for the front of the trailer, weld it in and put some paint and some rubber pads on it to protect the hull.
then pick up three or four bunk mounts for each side and do a contineus bunk down each side, just my .02 cents worth.