I was just told that the two outer bunks are just there to keep the boat from rocking on the trailer. They may or may not touch the boat while on the trailer. The two center bunks are what support the boat and guide it into position.
I assumed that all 4 bunks supported the boat evenly. Just looking for opinions on how the bunks should be set up for best support for loading and trailering.
2024 Phoenix 818, Mercury 175 (3B414035) Trick Steps, 3 Garmin 106 SV,s, LVS 34. BoatEFX dual bow mount. Ionic 12V 125AH, 2 12V 100 ah LiTime’s for the TM. Minn Kota 345 PCL charger,
I am not a bunk specialist. My two center bunks are 2 x 6 and guide the boat to align with the roller. They also support most if not all the weight the side ones are just ice cream, they are 2 x 4's. I also think they keep the boat from rocking side to side as it's being towed.
On my rig it's just the opposite according to the manufacture.
with that said I'm of the opinion and have spent much time getting them all to support equally.
The support attributes of the bunks vary from the boat OEMs & trailer manufacturers. I agree with Mike. Having all bunks equally supporting the weight is going to be better for the hull in the long run. Carpet on bunks adds to the problem as the fluff from the carpet hides the lack of contact. If you install Gatorbak covers you can see the lack of contact and shim up the bunks mounting areas to correct it. Having them all weight bearing also aides in proper hull to trailer alignment.
No expert here, but I've been told to align the bunks such that they are under the stringers for best support and to limit hull deformation . Obviously, that location would vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. I guess the question is how much of the support should be on the areas that are not below the stringers.
My boat is on a BassCat trailer. Their trailers are fitted properly so all the bunks are there to support the hull from what I’ve seen. The hull at the stern certainly digs into the carpet equally across the trailer.
BassCat Sabre FTD
Mercury 150 Optimax
"It's just fishing"
Wish they were all that way.Originally Posted by RazorCat
One thing I've noticed after owning many boats-----The difference between how the boat sits on the trailer when new and empty is subject to change after the boat is fully rigged and loaded with all my crap and full fuel.
A credit card inserted between bunk and hull can give you a good indication of where it needs attention.
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