Had a bunk bracket snap due to saltwater corrosion. I am going to replace all 4 this weekend while I have the boat off the trailer. While investigating parts I started thinking about replacing the carpeted bunk boards with a composite board similiar to the stuff they use for docks. No more rotting wood!! Has anyone tried this? Would you feel secure trailering your boat directly on this or would you move to a ez slide trailer pad in addition? My boat is light, a 16' flats boat. Also, it is hard to find stainless brackets here in town, if galvanized is all I can find what would you recommend to coat it with that I could do myself to help slow down the saltwater. It sucks, my entire trailer is aluminum but most of the brackets and hardware are galvanized.
Wish I had the answer for you.
I rebuilt a trailer for a flats boat I had several years ago. Everything had to be replaced. All the bolts had to be cut off with a angle grinder or torch. Back then I actually had some money, and if I knew what a problem it was going to be, I would have bought a new trailer and been done with it. Salt water sucks
I hear ya. The u-bolts are still in good condition but all the nuts and washers are too far gone. I hope I do not have to cut them off, I was hoping a small torch and some heat would do the job.
We rebuilt a trailer a few years ago and used galvanized hardware. After all was in place we coated the axle, springs, hardware, etc. with undercoating. Sold the boat and trailer about 3 years ago to a cousin up in Plant City and last I heard he was still using it regularly, still hasn't had to do anything to trailer but grease/change bearings.
When replacing the bunks try not to put anything on that is too slick. It's too easy to have the boat slide off when you don't want it to on the ramp. I would think the composite would be a little too hard on the hull also over time. Cover it with carpet again and you'll be good to go. I started taking my boats to a carwash on the way back from fishing. First thing I do is a serious washdown of the trailer with high pressure and it has helped slow down any rusting. 15 min. and I have a nice clean boat and trailer.
