Recommendation for Adding Bunk Rollers or Replacing Current Bunks with Rollers on Boat Trailer

Question:

I have a 2012 Ranger Trail trailer and 2012 Ranger Z118 boat. I want to either add bunk rollers to the bunks or to remove the current bunks and replace them with rollers. I am considering a C.E. Smith product. The boat and engine weigh about 1,550 lbs. What would you recommend?

asked by: Bill W

Expert Reply:

Assuming that your bunk rails are at least five foot long, I would recommend using the Dutton-Lainson Boat Trailer Roller Bunks, # DL21741. This system includes 2 - 5ft sections with a 3,000 pound weight capacity and offers universal mounts to attach either vertically or horizontally. This bunk system can be mounted flat against your current bunks and it is recommended that you match the length of the rollers to the length of the bunks. You will want to ensure that your bunk boards are in their correct position where they conform to the shape of the boat. Mounting the roller bunks toward the rear of the trailer will help to guide the boat on to the trailer with less effort.

C.E. Smith bunk rollers like the # CE27700, and the # CE27710 are great products but only offer a weight capacity of 1,500 pounds.

Another option is to replace the current bunks completely and use brackets like the Dutton-Lainson Roller Bunk Bracket, # DL21742, to attach the roller bunks directly to the trailer frame.

expert reply by: Leah S