Determining Length of Bolster Bracket for New Bunk System on Boat Trailer

Updated 12/18/2017 | Published 12/16/2017

Products Featured in This Question

CE Smith Bolster and Swivel Bracket Assemblies - Galvanized Steel - 13" - Qty 4

(610)

$64.44

CE Smith Bolster and Swivel Bracket Assembly for Roller Bunks - Galvanized Steel - Qty 1

(610)

$21.93

Question:

I currently have roller bunks on my boat trailer. I dont like how they support my aluminum boat and will be switching to a bunk support system. The distance from the top of the rear cross member of the trailer is 8inch from the top of the cross member to the bottom of the boat in the back. The distance from the front cross member is 5inch from the top of the cross member to the bottom of the boat. Am I correct in assuming a 11 Inch bracket for the rear cross member and an 9 inch bracket for the front cross member? The cross members are approx 4 inches. I will be using bolster brackets. 1.5 inches for the bunk, 1 inch for the swivel bracket, 4 inches for the cross member, 2 inch under the cross member for the bottom of the u-bolt. Or should I go with 13inch in the back and 11inch in the front, just to be on the safe side? Any help would be appreciated.

asked by: Don W

Expert Reply:

To be on the safe size, I recommend going with a 13 inch bracket # CE10002G-4 at the back of the trailer and an 11 inch bracket with # CE10003G at the front. A nice feature on these brackets is that they will each actually have as much as 3-3/4 inches of height adjustment due to their mounting slots, so even if its total height is a bit higher than needed, you can adjust them down. This will allow you to have the perfect height for your new bunk support system.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this product for you to check out, along with a link that will take you to our available selection of bunk boards that you can look through.

expert reply by: Chris R