Let’s Talk About Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′
Boat ownership is a rewarding experience, offering freedom on the water for fishing, recreation, or just enjoying the peace and quiet. However, maintaining a boat and its trailer can quickly become a headache if you don’t have the right equipment. The Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ promise to ease one common pain point: safely and easily loading and unloading your boat. These bunk boards are designed to provide a smooth, protective surface for your boat hull, simplifying the launch and retrieval process.
My own need for these bunk boards stemmed from a frustrating experience at a particularly shallow boat ramp. My old bunks were worn, and the boat refused to slide off easily, resulting in a stressful and time-consuming ordeal. I was looking for a durable, carpeted solution that would improve the ease of launching and retrieving my smaller fishing boat.
Upon unboxing, my first impression of the Tie Down Engineering bunk boards was positive. They felt solid and well-constructed. The marine-grade carpet was tightly adhered to the wood, and the overall build quality seemed robust, a definite upgrade from my previous set. They are relatively lightweight, making them easy to handle during installation.
I considered other options, including some with synthetic materials and different carpeting. Ultimately, I chose the Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ due to Tie Down Engineering’s reputation for quality and the positive reviews regarding the longevity of their carpeted bunk boards. Also, the 3-foot length was perfect for my small aluminum boat.
I was definitely excited to install these bunk boards. Launching and retrieving my boat had become a chore, and I was hopeful that these would make a significant difference. A smooth, effortless boat launch is something every boat owner dreams of!
Real-World Testing: Putting Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ was at my local lake, a relatively clean freshwater environment. The ramp had a moderate incline, offering a good test of the bunk boards’ ability to facilitate smooth launching. I also wanted to see how well the carpet held up to the initial dunking.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The boat slid off the trailer with significantly less effort than before. The carpet provided a slick surface that allowed the hull to glide smoothly, even with a slight crosswind. Retrieval was equally easy; the boat centered itself on the trailer with minimal guidance.
The weather was sunny and dry during the first use. However, the real test would come under more challenging conditions. After the launch and retrieval, I checked the carpet for any signs of loosening or damage. It appeared to be firmly attached, and the color remained vibrant.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ have held up remarkably well. I’ve used them in both freshwater lakes and brackish coastal waters, and they continue to perform consistently. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The carpet shows some minor discoloration in areas where the boat hull rests, but it remains securely bonded to the wood. I’ve power washed them a few times to remove algae and grime, and they’ve withstood the cleaning process without any issues. This speaks volumes about Tie Down Engineering’s construction quality.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick rinse after each use is usually sufficient to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris. I periodically inspect the carpet for any signs of damage, but so far, I haven’t found any cause for concern. Compared to my previous bare-wood bunks, the difference is night and day. These bunk boards offer superior hull protection and significantly easier loading and unloading. They far exceed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′
Specifications
- Length: The Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ are 3 feet (36 inches) long. This length is ideal for smaller boats, typically aluminum fishing boats or personal watercraft.
- Construction: The bunk boards are constructed of 2×4 lumber. This provides sufficient strength and support for the intended boat weight.
- Carpet: The boards are covered in black, all-weather, marine-grade carpet. The carpet is designed to provide a smooth, non-abrasive surface for the boat hull.
- Pair: The product is sold as a pair of bunk boards. This provides complete coverage for the boat trailer.
- Hardware: Mounting hardware is not included. This allows you to choose the appropriate fasteners for your specific trailer.
These specifications are important because they dictate the suitability of the bunk boards for different boat sizes and trailer configurations. The marine-grade carpet protects the boat’s finish, while the sturdy 2×4 construction ensures reliable support. The exclusion of mounting hardware allows for greater flexibility during installation.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ is to provide a smooth and supportive surface for loading and unloading a boat from its trailer. In this regard, they perform exceptionally well. The carpeted surface reduces friction, making it easier to slide the boat on and off the trailer.
The strength of the 2×4 lumber provides ample support for smaller boats. These bunk boards significantly reduce the risk of hull damage during loading and unloading. The main strength is the enhanced ease of launching and retrieving. The main weakness, if any, is that they may not be suitable for larger or heavier boats. They meet and exceed my expectations for my specific boat.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The carpet is neatly wrapped around the lumber. This creates a clean and professional appearance. The light weight of the boards makes them easy to handle during installation.
There’s no real learning curve involved. Installation is straightforward, although you do need to supply your own mounting hardware. The build quality is good for the price. The materials appear durable and well-suited for marine environments.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ should last for several years with proper care. The marine-grade carpet is designed to withstand the elements, and the 2×4 lumber is treated to resist rot and decay. Regular cleaning is essential to prolong their lifespan.
Maintenance is simple. Rinse the bunk boards with fresh water after each use, especially after exposure to saltwater. Periodically inspect the carpet for any signs of wear and tear. Replace them if the carpet becomes significantly damaged or begins to detach from the lumber.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ do not come with any accessories. As mentioned previously, mounting hardware is not included. There are limited customization options, but you could potentially replace the carpet with a different type or color.
The bunk boards are compatible with most standard boat trailers designed for smaller boats. You can use a variety of mounting hardware, such as galvanized bolts, screws, or U-bolts. Always select hardware that is appropriate for the weight of your boat and the material of your trailer frame. Using stainless steel hardware is highly recommended for superior corrosion resistance.
Pros and Cons of Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′
Pros
- Significantly eases boat loading and unloading. The carpet provides a low-friction surface, making it much easier to slide the boat on and off the trailer.
- Protects boat hull from scratches and damage. The carpeted surface cushions the hull and prevents abrasion.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance. The marine-grade carpet and treated lumber are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment.
- Affordable price point. These bunk boards offer excellent value for the money.
- Easy to install (with appropriate hardware). The installation process is straightforward.
Cons
- Hardware not included, adding to initial cost and requiring research to determine correct sizes and types.
- May not be suitable for larger or heavier boats. The 2×4 lumber may not provide sufficient support for heavier loads.
Who Should Buy Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′?
The Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ are perfect for owners of small aluminum fishing boats, personal watercraft, or other small boats that are trailered frequently. Anyone who struggles with loading or unloading their boat, or who wants to protect their boat’s hull from damage, will benefit from these bunk boards. They are also a great choice for DIY boat trailer repair and maintenance.
Anyone with a larger, heavier boat should skip this product. They require bunk boards with a higher weight capacity. Also, anyone who prefers a maintenance-free option might consider bunk boards made from synthetic materials.
Must-have accessories include appropriate mounting hardware (galvanized or stainless steel bolts, nuts, and washers) and a marine-grade sealant to protect the mounting holes from water intrusion.
Conclusion on Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′
The Tie Down Engineering 86127 Carpeted Bunk Boards Pair 3′ are a worthwhile investment for any small boat owner looking to simplify the launching and retrieving process. They offer excellent hull protection, durable construction, and an affordable price point. While they may not be suitable for larger boats, they are perfectly suited for smaller watercraft.
The price is definitely justified by the improved performance and protection they provide. For around $70 (plus the cost of hardware), you can significantly reduce the hassle of boat ownership and extend the life of your boat’s hull.
I would definitely recommend these bunk boards to anyone with a small boat. They have made a noticeable difference in my own boating experience. Ditch the frustration of struggling with difficult launches and retrievals and get yourself a set of these Tie Down Engineering bunk boards. You won’t regret it!