How to mount pvc bunks?

[zczek]

I bought a used load rite trailer with bunks set up for a couch from early 90s. I'm taking those bunks off and want to set up the trailer so I can fit two skis side by side or one in the middle.

How do you guys mount the 3" pvc to the bunk rails? Mod a bunk bracket? Use stainless U bolt brackets and drill holes in the pvc?

Any thoughts or other posts would be helpful.

Mike

 

[Squid121]

I wouldn't use PVC by itself as a bunk, even 3" or 4". PVC will become weak/brittle in the sun. That in conjunction with being towed down the road over bumps and pot holes while holding the weight of your ski equals the potential for failure. Use 2x4s or 4x4 wooden bunks or maybe even those made out of synthetic material, and cap them with the PVC instead of carpet. Cut a slit lengthwise down the PVC to go over the bunks and use stainless screws to attach the PVC to the wood along the sides.

By doing it this way you will maintain the strength of the bunks with wood, and will have easy loading and no water retention with the PVC like with carpet.

Just my .02. Good luck.

 

[Vumad]

Use composite 2x4 or put composite deck boards on top of 2x4. Ryan recently did his trailer with 2x4, and then cut a single 20' deck board in half twice, once long, once short. Worked well.

 

[Kny21]

^ composite deck boards ripped to size.

 

[Quinc]

Where are you buying the compost 2x4's? I tried home depot but they looked at me like I was crazy.

 

[Vumad]

Where are you buying the compost 2x4's? I tried home depot but they looked at me like I was crazy.

I haven't bought 2x4. The 2x4 are wood, covered in carpet, with deck board on top. I think there are some marine dealers that carry 2x4 but not for sure.

 

[FX1 696]

Don't use pvc. Mine only lasted a month or so before cracking

 

[zczek]

Used schedule 80. Need to add a cross member with bow stops.

 

[durhamgoat]

I used landscape timber, already rounded about 3.5" diameter and pressure treated. Carpeted and they are great.