Tweet
I am about to replace trailer bunk carpet on my ramlin trailer. I also need to replace/repair 2 screws that have broke at the rear of the trailer. What screws or bolts did you use for those that have done the same or similar repair (size, style, galvanized)? I am assuming they are self tapping and I'm thinking of adding extras to strengthen it up. I plan on having all tools and material ready so I can get the job done at the ramp/marina while the boat can be off the trailer. Any input would be appreciated.
-
-
I do not know about Ram-lin trailers specifically, but commonly, short lag screws are used up from the bottom. They work loose.
When I put new bunks on my trailer, I used through bolts, countersinking the head in to the bunk, on the top side, so the head if the bolt is BELOW the surface the boat and carpet are on.
I did by clamping a cut to length board to the trailer, drilling up from the bottom, with the size of bolt I used, typically 5/16, or 3/8, then countersinking the hole on the top side.
After the bolts are in the new bunks, you cover the bunks with carpet, and glue and staple the carpet on the bunks. -
The trailer frame is boxed, so no drilling from the bottom. I didn't think of glueing the carpet, just stapling with stainless staples. Any recomendation on glue?Comment
-
If your trailer frame is boxed, are there countersunk fasteners that screw into the trailer? It should be obvious how the bunks were attached to the trailer in the first place.
My first recommendation for carpet glue is good old fashioned volatile contact cement, but that is hard to find. There are water cased glues, that once set, and cured, are then waterproof. you need to carefully read the label.
Use the glue sparingly. Excess will soak through the carpet, and may tend to glue your boat to the carpet.Comment
-
The fasteners have to be countersunk by design. My problem is my boat is on my trailer and I can't lift it to peel up carpet to see what the screw/bolts are. Seems like the glue might just be there to prevent lateral shifting the more I think about it. I ordered carpet today, 15 ft pieces are not cheap!Comment
-
I believe the screws are 1/4"x28(fine thread) stainless button tops. I can't recall the length but I think they are 2.5" and are self taping. I've never come across similar screws in a store or online, but White Lake once told me they just use some stainless screws that are generally available from your local hardware store. The screws are countersunk into the top of the bunks.Comment
-
Thanks Darby, thats what I was initially looking for.Comment
Comment