Putting seaboard on the bunks

[Al Gagnon]

I talked to a friend today, that was at the launch ramp at Shelter Island just before I went fishing on Sunday. He said that my boat looked very heavy and it took a lot to launch off the trailer. He suggest something that I never thought about. He said he helped a friend bring a boat from back east that was a 30 ft. boat. The trick to launch a heavy boat is too install seaboard on the bunks and the boat should slide off a lot easier. He said it did not have to run the full length of the bunk. Does that sound doable to anyone out there? I will need to get some material that is think enough and will take a counter sunk screw. That may solve my problem, without extending the tongue.

[Professor]

It will also be sliding when you step on the brakes, accelerate and go up hill and down hill. It’ll need lots of tie downs and to be chained to the trailer really well. I’m not sure I like the idea.

[To The Limit]

I do not know what brand of trailer you have but I had a Pacific trailer for my 26' Billfisher. I had Pacific install star board type, I think it was more telfon, material and it worked like a charm. The boat never moved, I had no tie downs other than the bow strap. I towed it twice to Mag Bay. It sure made launching and retrieving a breeze for my wife and I. I would sure call them. They are in Chino.

[DOGHOUSE26]

Al,

Call San Diego Plastics in National City for the best price on starboard

[Al Gagnon]

I have replaced my door with the stuff and it was around $80. They do have some in the scrap bin but I may as well get a full sheet. Not sure if I will put one entire section or break it up in sections. I do not think it will slide due to a safety chain and the 15,000 lb. rated strap. I will post a message on Bloody decks to see if anyone else has used the stuff. I do not think it will get brittle and break due to the sun not hitting it, only when I am in the water. Glad to hear that someone has some experience using it.

[DOGHOUSE26]

I think I would use 1/2" material, I don't think you need 3/4" if you're going over solid wood.