Updating Trailer

[Monkey Boy]

I have a trailer with 2 bunks and the bow roller supporting my 17 foot bayliner (fiberglass) boat. One of the bunks split after loading the boat the last time, so I'll be replacing both of the bunks.

At the same time I'm going to do some updating to the trailer to make it easier for loading -- which is a pain in the @$$, takes me far too long to properly center the boat. I can't tell if the boat is lined up right until I pull the trailer out and look at how it's sitting from the back. So I plan to add a couple of self-centering keel rollers and low side bunker guides to make it easier.

My questions are:
1) The current bunks measure almost 8 feet long. The longest carpeted bunks I've seen listed are 6 feet long. Would the 6 foot bunks be ok for supporting the boat?
2) Will my plan for making loading easier work? or should I try something more/different?

Thanks!

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Updating Trailer

go to home depot by 8 ft 2x4's go the the carpet dept, by 8'6" of carpet, hall runner. make you own. you do not want smaller bunks. put guide ons on the trailer, and self centering rollers. i only have a total of 1 inch clearance with my guide ons, and 2 self centering rollers. the boat only has one place to go, that is centered. build you own. 2" pvc, and some clamps.

 

[Monkey Boy]

Re: Updating Trailer

thanks for the advice. Should I Ubolt the PVC directly to the trailer frame or should I use something sturdier? If just Ubolting to the frame, then how do I keep the round PVC pipe from turning downward?

Another question, should I get marine grade lumber instead of regular 2x4's? What's the difference? How long would I expect regular 2x4's to last (considering taking out the boat about a dozen times a year)?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Updating Trailer

cut up a bicycle inner tube wrap it around the pvc, then use U bolt to fasten. i use regular pine 2x4's pressure treated, the chemical, is caustic to the metal.

 

[Monkey Boy]

Re: Updating Trailer

interesting. thanks!