Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick Review

Let’s Talk About Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick

Every serious boater knows the struggle of launching and loading a boat, especially solo. The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick promises to alleviate that friction, quite literally. These PVC molded bunk slicks from Tie Down Engineering are designed to bolt directly onto your existing carpeted bunk boards, making launching and retrieving your boat a smoother, less strenuous experience.

My old trailer setup made solo launches a real pain. I’d often find myself winching the boat that last few inches, or struggling to get it to center correctly on the trailer bunks. I was searching for a solution that wouldn’t involve replacing the entire bunk system. The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick, with its promise of easy installation and improved glide, seemed like the ideal solution.

Upon opening the package, the first thing I noticed was the simplicity of the design. The slicks felt robust and well-molded, with a slightly textured surface. Their solid PVC construction suggested they could withstand the harsh marine environment.

I briefly considered products like full-length bunk wraps or even completely replacing the carpeted bunks with rollers. However, the Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick offered a more cost-effective and less labor-intensive solution. The thought of avoiding a complete bunk overhaul was definitely appealing.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for easier launches, but also a little skeptical about how much of a difference these relatively small slicks could actually make. Time would tell if they lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick at my local lake, a freshwater body known for its sometimes-steep launch ramps. I installed the slicks on my boat trailer’s carpeted bunks before heading out. Installation was straightforward using stainless steel bolts and washers.

The first launch was a revelation. The boat slid off the trailer with significantly less effort than before. There was no more winching it those last few inches. Even better, retrieval was just as smooth; the boat centered itself on the trailer with minimal guidance.

The weather was sunny and dry during my initial testing. However, I anticipate the slicks would perform just as well, if not better, in wet conditions. The slick PVC material should reduce friction regardless of the weather.

The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick were incredibly easy to use. After installation, there was no learning curve whatsoever. The improved glide was immediately noticeable.

The only surprise was just how much easier the launch and retrieval process became. I’d expected an incremental improvement, but the difference was substantial. It made solo boating trips far less stressful.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick continue to perform admirably. They have held up well, showing no signs of cracking or warping, despite constant exposure to sun and water. The Tie Down Engineering product has impressed me with how well it can hold up.

There’s been minimal wear and tear, just some minor scuffing on the PVC surface. This is to be expected with constant use.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. I occasionally rinse them off with fresh water to remove any accumulated dirt or debris. This keeps them functioning optimally.

Previously, launching and retrieving my boat was a chore, often requiring a second person for assistance. The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick have completely changed that experience. They significantly outperform my previous setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick

Specifications

The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick has specific dimensions and features:

• Dimensions: 1-3/4″ wide and 17″ long. This size offers a good balance between support and reduced friction.
• Material: Molded PVC. This provides a durable and slick surface.
• Compatibility: Works with any standard bunk board. This makes it a versatile upgrade for most boat trailers.
• Installation: Bolts directly onto carpeted bunk boards. This allows for easy and secure installation.
• Function: Makes transferring boats easier. This results in smoother launch and retrieval.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the performance of the slicks. The PVC material ensures a low-friction surface. Their universal compatibility makes them suitable for a wide range of boat trailers.

Performance & Functionality

The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick performs its job exceptionally well. They significantly reduce the friction between the boat and the trailer bunks. This makes launching and retrieving the boat much easier.

The main strength is the noticeable improvement in glide, allowing the boat to slide on and off the trailer with minimal effort. The length is appropriate for most boats, and the materials used are ideal.

These slicks meet and exceed my expectations. They’ve transformed a previously frustrating task into a simple and stress-free process.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid, with a robust PVC construction that feels durable. They are lightweight and easy to handle during installation.

The design is straightforward and effective. There is no learning curve associated with using the slicks. They are a set-it-and-forget-it upgrade.

Durability & Maintenance

Given their solid construction, the Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick should last for many years with proper care. The PVC material is resistant to weathering and corrosion.

They are incredibly easy to maintain. A simple rinse with fresh water is usually all that’s needed to keep them in optimal condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick do not come with any additional accessories. You will need to provide your own bolts and washers for installation.

There are no specific customization options for the slicks themselves. However, you can choose different lengths or quantities to suit your specific trailer setup. They are compatible with most standard trailer bunk hardware.

Pros and Cons of Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick

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Who Should Buy Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick?

The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick are perfect for boat owners who frequently launch and retrieve their boats, especially solo boaters. Anyone tired of struggling with a sticky bunk will appreciate the ease of use and improved glide.

Those who should skip this product are boaters with roller trailers (as they already have a low-friction solution). Also, those with heavily damaged or rotted bunk boards would benefit more from a complete bunk replacement.

Essential accessories include stainless steel bolts, washers, and a drill for easy installation. Consider applying a marine-grade lubricant to further reduce friction.

Conclusion on Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick

The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick is a simple yet effective solution for improving the launch and retrieval of your boat. They deliver on their promise of reducing friction and making the entire process smoother and less strenuous.

At a price of $47.39, the value proposition is excellent. The time and effort saved, combined with the durability of the product, make it a worthwhile investment.

I would absolutely recommend the Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick to any boater looking for an easy and affordable way to upgrade their trailer. Say goodbye to sticky bunks and hello to hassle-free launches! Get your own set of Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick today and experience the difference!