2x4 or 2x6 for 24ft pontoon

[brooksville_rebel]

Hello
I need to redo my trailer bunks for my 24ft pontoon. I did some net searches on this and most posts are from 2004-2012 so I know some of the info is outdated as things have changed.
On my trailer now are 2x4's. I was thinking of going to 2x6's. Mostly for the feel of safety. Boat is big and weights about 3000 lbs with a 1987 Mercury 70Hp on it. I'm also hoping that with the more surface area it be easier to slide the boat between the bunks when the wind and waves are blowing it around and trying to get it loaded up.
Not sure about what type of bolts to use. Stainless or galv on the the wood. ? Wood would be PT from Lowes.
And should stainless or galv be used ? again info on that is old and know the PT chemicals used today are different from when most of the posts I found were written.

Thanks
Mark

 

[ahicks]

PT chemicals are not kind to alum. at all. Causes pitting. If you decide to use PT lumber, you're going to need to do something that will prevent those chemicals from contacting the tubes. If you're thinking carpet to accomplish that, that's a bad plan, as wet carpet is just going to make matters worse.

I like the 2x6' plan as well.

I would use stainless bolts.

 

[NYBo]

You won't get more surface contact with 2x6 lumber. The pontoons are round. They will be stronger and less likely to sag, however.

 

[jbetzelb]

I second the PT post. Could stain and eat at the pontoons. A red cedar will last a long time.