Dumb Idea

[Hellacool]

My hull is getting pretty scratched up from the bunks. I keep it at a marina. They launch and recover. I think the bunks get dirty from sitting with no boat then when they put the boat on it is scratching. So, would there be a downside to possible putting a keel guard on each area where the front bunks sit? If it was laid flat it would cover nicely, just not sure if it is practical or simply a bad idea. The scratches are superficial but they bug me. Any better ideas?

 

[Ilmmct]

Liquid Roller. I’ve used it on my trailer bunks:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00144EZJ8/ref=cm_sw_r_em_api_dS8yAbDH9TQVA

Not sure if you have the control to insure the marina lubricates their bunks, but just putting this idea out there.

 

[Bruce]

Would the keel guard interrupt the flow of water?

Have you considered trying one of the clear adhesive bug and rock chip shields that are used on cars?

 

[Hellacool]

Would the keel guard interrupt the flow of water?

Have you considered trying one of the clear adhesive bug and rock chip shields that are used on cars?

Thats an idea. I have not.

 

[BigAbe75]

I just had my gelcoat repaired this offseason, due to similar problems. It was gouged through to the fiberglass in a couple places. Was fairly pricey.

I’m not sure what my solution will be, but first time I launch this year I’ll be inspecting my trailer real good this year to evaluate the carpet and make sure it’s in good shape and clean before I retrieve it. It’s new to me, and I really didn’t pay much attention to the bunks as my wife usually drives the truck.

Some of my problems were self inflicted as a new boater trying to launch and retrieve too shallow and forcing it on and off the trailer.

Just seems weird to me as our 25 yr old Celibrity has never had any scuffs on the hull. I guess it’s just a lot thinner/softer than I’m used to, and need to take better care of it.

 

[njmr2fan]

I just bought these on clearance from trailerpartsdepot.com

http://www.trailerpartsdepot.com/p-1305-bunk-slicks-fits-2x6-3-x15-white-10-pcs.aspx

Planned on putting them on tomorrow. Hoping it treats my hull better than the OEM carpeting. Any thoughts?

 

[Julian]

I just bought these on clearance from trailerpartsdepot.com

http://www.trailerpartsdepot.com/p-1305-bunk-slicks-fits-2x6-3-x15-white-10-pcs.aspx

Planned on putting them on tomorrow. Hoping it treats my hull better than the OEM carpeting. Any thoughts?

We've had a number of discussions on here about Ultimate bunk boards, and some of the people using them ended up carpeting over them because they end up with hard surface against the boat and as soon as you put any grit between those two hard surfaces...you get a sandpaper effect.

My perspective/approach is to just make sure your carpet is thick and soft and change it every 3-4 years.

 

[tdonoughue]

Found the same thing on Amazon $2 cheaper (after shipping). Only concern is will they scratch up the bottom of the boat. Reading the Amazon comments, there have been some instances of that... So do keep an eye out for that (and let us know how it goes)!

 

[Gym]

Not to reopen an old controversy but I'm still using my ultimate bunk boards with no issues after 5 seasons of use. The boards get automatically rinsed clean of any debris each time it's dunked in the water for retrieval. The secret I learned is hand loading/retrieving rather than power loading/ retrieving. This allows you to put the trailer in slightly deeper allowing for less friction between boat and bunk. In my case it also reduces wear on the starter motor as I have to do all the trailering in and out at the ramp.

 

[njmr2fan]

I'll give it a go. At worst if there appears to more wear, i'll change back to carpet. Plan on mounting these right on top of existing carpet.

EDIT:
Mounted the bunk glides? installation was straight forward. 1" SS screws that sit in a channel below the raised riders. When we put the boat back on it was sliding back. Looks like unloading is going to be A LOT easier. My buddy was able to hook the bow when i power loaded it on, guess i'll have to teach my wife a new recovery trick.

 

[tdonoughue]

I guess the main thing I saw in the product was that the channels might allow enough 'rinse' effect to avoid the sandpaper effect reported by using UBB's. Less likely that a piece of sand gets trapped and more likely it gets swept to the channel, is my guess. But will be interested to see how that goes. The reduced surface area means you will have more pressure on certain spots on the hull, too (which can cause wear at those spots--if you were to hit exactly the same spot each time).

But glad the loading at least looks easier. Keep us updated!