Metal Bunks?

[Cobalt255]

Anyone tried using Aluminium beams to replace wooden bunks? I have my Cobalt 255 on an Aluminium bunk trailer. Replaced the beams with white oak 10 x 4's, 10 ft long, on edge topped off with plastic bunk aps. I need the height to clear the wheels. I was told white oak is superior to pine. Works fine, but one beam is splitting after two years. Was thinking about using Aluminium I-beams instead and capping with treated 4x2 ? Anyone done this? Comments?

 

[mphy98]

Re: Metal Bunks?

sound OK to me, but how about using a lexan type of plastic instead of any wood. this should last forever, iI have seen this on newer trailers.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Metal Bunks?

white oak is strong, but does not do well in the weather. not oak likes to get wet and dry.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Metal Bunks?

white oak is strong, but does not do well in the weather.

Ayuh,...

Generally speaking I completely Agree,...
But,...
I've always known that White Oak was a prefered timber for framing old Ships...
A few years ago, I was chatting with an old Shipwright,... He told me the Secret about White Oak,+ using it in the water...
It has to be Boiled,...
Boiling changes the composition of the wood causing it to become Rot Resistent...

Anyways,.. Back to Topic,...

As long as these beams are merely bunk risers,+ covered with Wood against the Hull,...

I don't see any problems with it...

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Metal Bunks?

Was thinking about using Aluminium I-beams instead and capping with treated 4x2?

The AQC treatment in "green" treated lumber will eat aluminum unless you have a barrier, heavy plastic tape, paint, etc.,,, but I wouldn't chance it. While redwood is not the strongest wood around, it is rot resistant and won't eat aluminum. Since you are going to use it as a scuff surface on the aluminum I don't see why it wouldn't work.

I had my old heavy glass boat on redwood bunks and they lasted for 10 years.