trailer bunks ..

2Spicy · 30 August 2023, 09:54

I have an Extreme trailer, with keel rollers and side rollers that i want to modify to carry my SIB.

Ill probably remove the rollers for now, and add them back in if needed later

I have the hardware to mount the benches to, but a question to the masses ... should i go for a single bed, or twin beds each side ?

My hardware is 12" wide, and i was thinking of making 2x 6" beds, with a 6" gap between the two each side

Im leaning towards using 2x 6" lengths to give a greater supported area under the tubes, but im trying not to go overkill !

... i have the carpet, and will be using treated C24 in 3.6m lengths

jeffstevens763@g · 30 August 2023, 12:36

i use single bunks so its easer to push the boat off if water depth isn't enough, support wise anything off the bottom isn't support just retaining anyway. make sure you have transom support for the engine its a must.

2Spicy · 30 August 2023, 13:29

Good point about friction ...

Transom support ... ill be removing my engine for transport .. looking at an 18 tohatsu or 20 mariner

Peter_C · 30 August 2023, 20:27

Which Zodiac? I would only do two bunks and they need to support the transom whether the engine stays mounted or not. Typically the bunks are put right next to the tubes.

If your boat is in fact over 4m, I wouldn't get less than a 40hp which is way to heavy to ever remove without two people or a crane. Personally I would leave the motor on and use a transom saver while towing. I stored mine at home with the motor down and wood cribbed up under the skeg, enough to take some of the load off the transom.

jeffstevens763@g · 30 August 2023, 21:38

You’ll get fed up lifting the engine on and off for the sake of a transom saver or similar.

Steve509926 · 30 August 2023, 22:22

I agree with Peter_C, I think whether you leave the outboard fitted or not it is wise to have the bunks run under the transom to give it support, otherwise the transom is suspended in fresh air.

As for leaving the OB on or taking it off, I do both. Trailering a long i'sh distance, the OB goes in the back of the truck. Local or on holiday for a few days or more, it stays fitted to the transom. Just made a transom saver as a precaution.