C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly Review

Let’s Dive into C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly

The C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly promises a simple solution to a common problem for jon boat owners: proper trailer support. C.E. Smith aims to provide a robust and adjustable system that keeps your flat-bottomed boat secure during transport, preventing damage and ensuring a smooth ride. This is a relatively inexpensive but potentially invaluable piece of equipment for anyone regularly hauling a jon boat.

I recently acquired an older jon boat for some shallow-water fishing in my local bayous. The original trailer had minimal support, and I was concerned about the hull warping or cracking over time due to uneven weight distribution. I needed a reliable way to provide additional support, especially at the front of the trailer, which tends to see the most stress.

The C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly arrived well-packaged. My initial impression was that the carpet looked durable and the steel bracket felt solid. The welds appeared clean, and the adjustment mechanism seemed straightforward enough.

I considered a few other options before settling on this one. Some universal bunk kits were significantly more expensive and seemed like overkill for my small jon boat. Others appeared flimsy and wouldn’t inspire confidence on long trips. The C.E. Smith offering seemed like a good balance of price and quality.

I was cautiously optimistic. I hoped this would be a quick and easy upgrade that would give me peace of mind when trailering my boat. Only time and testing would tell if it lived up to my expectations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly on my trailer tongue before a weekend fishing trip to the marsh. Installation was relatively straightforward, taking about 30 minutes with basic hand tools. I really appreciated that C.E. Smith included all the necessary mounting hardware for both 2″ and 3″ wide trailer tongues.

The true test came when I loaded the jon boat. I carefully positioned the bunk to support the keel of the boat. The adjustable height allowed me to fine-tune the fit perfectly, ensuring the weight was evenly distributed. The carpeted bunk provided a gentle surface, preventing any scratching or damage to the aluminum hull.

The ride to the marsh was noticeably smoother. The boat felt more secure, and there was less bouncing and swaying. This initial test gave me confidence that the C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly was doing its job.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion on the steel bracket, even after repeated exposure to saltwater. The carpet still looks new, with no fraying or tearing.

I regularly inspect the mounting hardware to ensure everything is tight and secure. The adjustable height mechanism still works smoothly, allowing me to make minor adjustments as needed. This has proven to be a durable and reliable addition to my trailer.

Compared to my previous experience with a poorly supported boat, this is a night and day difference. I no longer worry about hull damage during transport. The C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly

Specifications

• The bunk is 24 inches long. This length provides adequate support for the keel of most jon boats.
• It’s adjustable from 5-1/2″ up to 8″ above the trailer tongue. This adjustability allows for a customized fit to different boat hull designs and trailer heights.
• The Manufacturer is C.E. Smith. They are known for producing reliable and affordable trailer accessories.
• It includes all mounting hardware for a 2″ or 3″ wide tongue. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of trailer types.
• The board is covered with high-quality marine-grade carpet. This protects the boat’s hull from scratches and abrasions.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the stability and protection of your jon boat during transport. The adjustable height ensures proper weight distribution, while the carpeted bunk prevents damage to the hull. The included hardware simplifies installation, and the durable materials ensure long-lasting performance.

Performance & Functionality

The C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly performs its job exceptionally well. It provides solid support for the jon boat hull, preventing flexing and stress cracks.

The adjustability of the bunk is a key strength. It allows for a perfect fit, regardless of the boat’s specific dimensions or the trailer’s configuration.

One area for potential improvement would be a slightly wider bunk. While the 24-inch length is adequate, a wider surface area might provide even greater stability, especially for wider jon boats.

Overall, the performance of the C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly meets and even exceeds expectations. It’s a simple but effective solution for preventing trailer-related damage to jon boats.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional. The steel bracket is robust and well-welded, providing a solid foundation for the bunk. The carpeted bunk is soft and non-abrasive, protecting the boat’s finish.

The installation is relatively user-friendly. Even someone with minimal mechanical experience should be able to install this bunk with basic hand tools.

Durability & Maintenance

The C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly is built to last. The steel bracket is powder-coated for corrosion resistance, and the marine-grade carpet is designed to withstand the elements.

Maintenance is minimal. Simply rinse off any dirt or debris after each use, and occasionally inspect the mounting hardware to ensure everything is tight.

Accessories and Customization Options

The C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly doesn’t require any additional accessories to function properly. However, some users might choose to add additional carpet padding for extra protection, especially for boats with delicate finishes.

The mounting hardware is standard, so it’s compatible with aftermarket U-bolts and clamps if desired. There are no major customization options available, but the adjustable height and included hardware provide a good degree of flexibility.

Pros and Cons of C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly

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Who Should Buy C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly?

This product is perfect for jon boat owners who want to ensure their boat is properly supported during transport. It’s ideal for pro anglers, casual fisherman, and anyone who regularly trailers their jon boat.

Those who should skip this product might be owners of larger, heavier boats that require more robust support systems. This bunk is specifically designed for jon boats and might not be adequate for other hull types.

A must-have accessory would be a set of quality U-bolts to ensure a secure and stable mounting to the trailer tongue.

Conclusion on C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly

The C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for protecting your jon boat during transport. Its adjustable height, durable construction, and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment for any jon boat owner.

The price of $67.99 is justified by the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that your boat is properly supported and protected from damage is invaluable.

I would personally recommend the C.E. Smith Jon Boat Support Bunk & Bracket Assembly to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to improve their jon boat trailer. Don’t risk damaging your boat – invest in proper support and enjoy worry-free trailering!