C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket Review

Let’s Dive into C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket

The C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket isn’t exactly the kind of gear that gets your pulse racing, but for boat owners, it’s a critical piece of hardware. Made by C.E. Smith, these brackets are designed to securely mount bunk boards to your boat trailer, ensuring your precious vessel is properly supported during transport. These aluminum brackets promise a robust build capable of handling larger boats, and at a reasonable price point, they piqued my interest as a potential solution for upgrading my own aging trailer.

My need for these brackets arose from a recurring issue with my current setup; my older trailer’s bunk supports were showing significant rust and wear. They were originally designed for a smaller boat, and now that I’ve upgraded, I needed something sturdier and better suited for the increased weight and length. I wanted a solution that offered both reliability and ease of installation, and after comparing several options, the C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket seemed like the best balance of quality and affordability.

Upon receiving the brackets, my initial impression was positive; the aluminum construction felt solid and the 5″ x 8″ size seemed adequate for my needs. The bare aluminum finish is utilitarian but functional. Compared to other bunk brackets I considered, these stood out for their thickness and 90-degree vertical design, which offered a more direct and stable mounting point compared to some angled alternatives.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While they seemed well-made, the real test would be in the installation and performance under load. I was hoping they would live up to the promise of being able to carry larger boats without issue, and I looked forward to seeing if they could handle the rigors of frequent launching and retrieval.

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Real-World Testing: Putting C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use of the C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket involved a complete overhaul of my boat trailer’s bunk system. I tested the brackets on a 20-foot center console boat, launching it into a moderately choppy bay. The process involved removing the old, corroded brackets, mounting new pressure-treated lumber, and then securely attaching the lumber to the trailer frame using the C.E. Smith brackets.

The brackets performed admirably; the vertical design allowed for precise alignment and solid attachment. After the first launch, I inspected the brackets for any signs of stress or movement, and everything remained firmly in place. There was no creaking or wobbling noted.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Brackets have proven their worth. I’ve taken the boat out in various conditions, from calm lakes to choppy coastal waters, and the brackets have consistently provided solid support. There are minimal signs of wear and tear.

The aluminum shows no signs of rust or corrosion, even after repeated exposure to saltwater. Maintenance has been simple; a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is all that’s needed to keep them in good condition. Compared to my previous steel brackets, these C.E. Smith brackets are a significant upgrade in terms of durability and reliability. They have instilled confidence in the trailer’s ability to safely transport my boat, and I am impressed with their long-term performance.

Breaking Down the Features of C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket

Specifications

• The C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket measures 5 inches in width and 8 inches in height, providing ample surface area for secure mounting. Its 1/4-inch thickness is a key factor in its robust construction.
• Made from aluminum, the bracket offers a lightweight yet strong solution for supporting bunk boards on boat trailers. The aluminum construction makes the bracket corrosion-resistant and durable, especially in saltwater environments.

The dimensions and material choice directly impact the bracket’s ability to withstand the weight and stresses of supporting a boat during transport. The 5-inch width provides a stable platform for the bunk board, while the 1/4-inch thickness ensures that the bracket can handle significant loads without bending or breaking. The aluminum construction is vital for preventing rust and corrosion, which can compromise the structural integrity of the bracket over time.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket is to provide a stable and secure mounting point for bunk boards on a boat trailer. It performs this task exceptionally well, thanks to its robust construction and thoughtful design.

The bracket’s vertical 90-degree angle allows for a direct and strong connection between the bunk board and the trailer frame, minimizing wobble and ensuring even weight distribution. A potential weakness might be the lack of adjustable height, which could be a limiting factor for some boat and trailer combinations. However, for my specific setup, the fixed height works perfectly.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket is simple and utilitarian, focusing on functionality over aesthetics. The bare aluminum finish is not particularly eye-catching, but it is durable and corrosion-resistant.

The bracket’s weight is reasonable, contributing to the overall stability of the trailer without adding unnecessary bulk. Its user-friendly design requires no specialized tools or expertise for installation, making it accessible to most boat owners.

Durability & Maintenance

The C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket, crafted from aluminum, promises impressive longevity. The absence of moving parts minimizes potential failure points.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime. The brackets are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment, ensuring they will provide years of reliable service with minimal upkeep.

Accessories and Customization Options

The C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket is a fairly straightforward piece of hardware and doesn’t come with additional accessories. However, it is compatible with standard mounting hardware, allowing for easy customization with different bolt sizes and washers.

The bracket’s simple design also allows for the use of various bunk board materials, such as carpeted wood or composite decking. While there are no direct customization options for the bracket itself, its compatibility with standard hardware and materials provides ample flexibility for tailoring the bunk system to specific needs.

Pros and Cons of C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket

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Who Should Buy C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket?

The C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket is perfect for boat owners looking to upgrade or replace their existing bunk brackets with a durable and reliable solution. It is particularly well-suited for those who frequently launch and retrieve their boats in saltwater environments, where corrosion resistance is essential.

Those who should skip this product are individuals needing adjustable bunk heights, as this model provides a fixed vertical mount only. Also, those with very small boats might find the 5″ x 8″ size to be overkill.

Must-have accessories include stainless steel mounting hardware to prevent corrosion, as well as pressure-treated lumber or composite decking for the bunk boards.

Conclusion on C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket

The C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket is a no-frills, highly functional piece of hardware that delivers on its promise of providing a stable and secure mounting point for boat trailer bunk boards. Its durable aluminum construction, easy installation, and reasonable price make it an excellent value for boat owners seeking a reliable upgrade.

At $19.89, the price is definitely justified given the quality and performance of the bracket. The aluminum construction makes it a worthwhile investment for protecting your boat during transport.

I would personally recommend the C.E. Smith Vertical 90 Bunk Bracket to anyone looking to upgrade their boat trailer’s bunk system. It provides peace of mind knowing your boat is well-supported. Don’t wait until your old brackets fail; upgrade now and enjoy worry-free boating!