how to switch from rollers to bunks

[GlasV162]

Hello,

I'm facing having to replace rollers on my trailer and am considering switching them for bunks for the following reasons:

1: Fewer moving parts to replace later on
2: Lower cost
3: More even support for the hull.


What's the best method for switching?

Thanks,
John

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

Personally I would stick with the rollers. Changing to bunks is do-able but could end up being a lot more work for minimal benefit.
Just my thoughts though.

 

[jkust]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

How much do replacement rollers cost?

 

[Alwhite00]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

A roller actually will support better if they are the normal 2x4 bunks as there are inly 2 or 3 supports holding the board up.

LK

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

I'd stick with rollers. They shouldn't need replacing but every 10-15 years if they are maintained (which is minimal). A couple replacements are less than building a bunk system. And with rollers, on many boats, you can keep the trailer out of the water, which in salt water, is important to the life/maintenance of the trailer and its parts.

 

[bonz_d]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

How much do replacement rollers cost?

Wobble rollers range from $13.00 to $18.00 depending on where you buy and which Brand. I see kits with 4 rollers going @ $55.00.

Bunk brackets range from $6.00 ea. to $15.00 again depending on where you buy and the quality or type of bracket. Then you have to add in the hardware, bunk carpet or sliders and the wood.

I too see many more folks replacing rotted bunks far more frequently than worn out wobble rollers. So the cost may be cheaper up front with bunks but in the long run I believe you save money with rollers.

 

[GlasV162]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

Interesting points. My biggest concern is the support for the boat. I've been told that rollers give less support than bunks but based on some of the posts here, now I don't know. My roller brackets have places to add more roller assemblies. Would that be a better way to go?

 

[jkust]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

I've got a roller trailer that is set up with a full roller assembly for the back of the boat and two 16" or so long bunks for the deepest part of the V and rollers in the mid section. There are so many rollers that it is supported very well all the way to the last milimeter of the back. Maybe post a couple pictures of the set up and we can give some advice on mods if it isn't supported good enough now. Depending on the accesses you use, the roller trailer benefits should easily outweigh the periodic maintainance expense and support, if done correctly, shouldn't be an issue. To me a bunk trailer is like riding a horse to work compard to driving your car. The horse will get you there but the car will do it better.

Just this season, i'm starting to feel that it is more difficult to crank onto the trailer and I'm hearing some squeaking down around the rollers. I'm betting i'm due for some maintainance as well.

 

[WIMUSKY]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

Also, you can launch/retrieve in shallower water too with a roller.....

 

[jkust]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

Also, you can launch/retrieve in shallower water too with a roller.....

You could launch and retrieve a boat on the lawn with a roller.

 

[oldjeep]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

You could launch and retrieve a boat on the lawn with a roller.

You can also launch in water that is not deep enough to operate your boat

 

[colbyt]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

@John

I personally prefer the rollers but if you want some advice post a few pictures of your trailer with the boat on and off. Every trailer is different. On my older one with the elevating arms I could convert for the cost of 4 bolts, the wood and carpet.

 

[bonz_d]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

You can also launch in water that is not deep enough to operate your boat

I do it all the time which is why I own a roller trailer with tilt. Which is also the reason I'm running the 14' boat, Just no need for anything bigger on most of the local lakes. Less than 1000 acres.

 

[mrdancer]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

Yes, bunks do generally give better support unless you have a poorly-built bunk trailer or an above-average number of rollers. With that being said, most boats do not suffer hull damage from sitting on rollers; however, if you trailer often, or over rough roads, or carry a lot of gear in your boat while it is on the trailer, then the chances for hull damage increase.

Rollers have their advantages also, as pointed out in posts above. But, there is no reason you can't have both!

Switch the back 1/3 to 1/2 of the trailer rollers to bunks. The bunks will support the transom and engine, which are usually the heavier parts of the boat. The bunks will also help secure the boat on the trailer. During launching, the boat will float up off the bunks, allowing the rollers to do their job at the front of the trailer. You get the best of both worlds.

Use any good rollers that you remove from the back of the trailer to replace bad rollers at the front of the trailer. For the bunks, I'd recommend a good hardwood, like white oak. Yes, it's more expensive, but it will last longer. I generally stay away from the PT stuff since it is pretty corrosive nowadays. Cypress may also be a good option if you can find it.

 

[jclem]

Re: how to switch from rollers to bunks

I like your idea of using both, interesting. I have been under the impression that bunks are preferred to rollers since pretty much all of the new boats trailers I see are setup with bunks. I suppose it could be a cost issue though, definitely see pros and cons of each. Thanks to all iboats community for sharing their experience!