What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

[ponyyboyy]

Hey everyone,
I need to replace the side steps on my boat trailer. They seem to be made out of plywood that is carpeted but this doesn't seem to me like it would be the best option since the back steps are submerged under water when the boat is launched and/or retrieved. Seeing that the wood is now warped and cracked, I would think that solidifies my assumptions. Any suggestions? Again it's the steps on the side of the trailer, not the bunks. Any help is appreciated, thanks guys. - Ponyy

 

[Bondo]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

Again it's the steps on the side of the trailer, not the bunks.

Ayuh,... Diamond plate,...

 

[partskenn]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

I haven't had to do it yet on mine, but it seems like wolmanized lumber for decks would stand up fairly well.

 

[ponyyboyy]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

@Bond-O
I gave some thought to the diamond plate but it would get awfully hot to some bare feet on a summer day!

 

[rickryder]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

Just remember that ACQ lumber will rot steel or aluminum.... all fasteners must be ACQ compliant double dipped galv,stainless,ceramic coated...You will also need a barrier between the wood and the trailer frame.

 

[180shabah]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

+1 for metalwood....

 

[ponyyboyy]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

I think metal would be the best choice for longevity but is not really an option for me. Lack of tools to make it work.

 

[Mark42]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

Sounds like a good application for the plastic decking products, depending on how the supports are spaced. Pressure Treated lumber will work well too. If you're worried about some corrosion issues, put a layer of inner tube (old bicycle tube is good enough) between the wood and the galvanized or aluminum metal.

 

[NSBCraig]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

You could just use some ext ply and seal it with some poly resin and csm.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

You could just use some ext ply and seal it with some poly resin and csm.

No, pressure treated is better.

(pokes angry badger with stick)

 

[NSBCraig]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

No, pressure treated is better.

(pokes angry badger with stick)

Hah now that is funny!

 

[justchecking]

Re: What kind of replacement wood to use on trailer?

I just replaced mine with 3/4 in pressure treated ply from Lowes. After cutting to size I sealed with 60 min epoxy from Lowes cut 1:1 with 91% denatured alcohol brushed on with a cheap 2" chip brush. Get the edges particularly well. One coat is great two is better. I stapled new outdoor carpet on with Monel stapels. I gave the same treatment to my other trailer 6 years ago which is always stored outside and they are like new.

It's cheap, fast, and it lasts.