Tie Down Roller Bunks Review

Let’s Talk About Tie Down Roller Bunks

The Tie Down Roller Bunks are designed to make launching and loading your boat onto a trailer smoother and easier. Tie Down Engineering is a reputable name in the marine hardware industry. These bunks promise to reduce friction and provide better hull support compared to traditional carpeted bunks. I was intrigued to see if they lived up to the hype, given my years of struggling with stubborn boat landings.

I needed a better way to load my aluminum fishing boat onto its trailer. Carpeted bunks were grabbing too much, making it a real chore, especially on shallow ramps. The promise of easier launching and loading was the key feature drawing me to these roller bunks.

Unboxing the Tie Down Roller Bunks, the first thing I noticed was the heavy-duty galvanized steel frame. They felt solid and well-constructed, suggesting durability. I was a bit disappointed that the mounting hardware wasn’t included.

Compared to similar roller bunk kits from other brands like CE Smith or Fulton, the Tie Down Roller Bunks seemed sturdier in frame construction. I chose these because of the Tie Down name, hoping for longevity in harsh saltwater environments. The price was also competitive, swaying my decision.

My initial impression was positive. The galvanized steel frame looked robust. The lack of included mounting hardware was a minor annoyance, though. I was eager to get them installed and see if they would solve my boat-loading woes.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Tie Down Roller Bunks to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Tie Down Roller Bunks at my local saltwater boat ramp. This ramp is known for being steep and having strong tidal currents. I launched and loaded my 18-foot aluminum fishing boat multiple times in varying conditions.

The performance was noticeably better than with my old carpeted bunks, even in slightly windy conditions. The rollers allowed the boat to glide on and off with much less effort. I no longer needed to power-load the boat, reducing stress on the trailer winch.

The Tie Down Roller Bunks were surprisingly easy to use, requiring no getting used to at all. The boat naturally aligned itself on the rollers. This feature made solo launches and retrieves much simpler.

The only minor issue I encountered was that the boat tended to roll a bit too easily when unhooking the winch cable on the ramp’s incline. This meant needing to be extra careful and ensuring the boat was adequately secured.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Tie Down Roller Bunks have held up exceptionally well. They’ve seen both freshwater and saltwater. This makes them a great choice for most boaters.

There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The galvanized steel frame shows no rust. The rollers still spin freely, even after being submerged in saltwater repeatedly.

Maintenance is simple: just a quick rinse with freshwater after each use to remove salt and debris. I occasionally apply a silicone lubricant to the rollers to ensure smooth operation. This has proven to be more than enough for upkeep.

Compared to my previous experiences with carpeted bunks, the Tie Down Roller Bunks are a vast improvement. They make launching and loading significantly easier, saving time and effort. They outperform the old carpeted bunks in every aspect, from ease of use to durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Tie Down Roller Bunks

Specifications

The Tie Down Roller Bunks feature a heavy-duty galvanized steel frame, providing excellent corrosion resistance. This is crucial for marine environments. The rollers are made of a durable, non-marking material designed to support the hull without causing damage.

The bunks are adjustable vertically. However, the optional bolster support swivel brackets (model 81210) are required for this adjustment and are sold separately. The bunk kits do not include mounting hardware. This means you will need to purchase this separately, which is an added expense and inconvenience.

These specifications matter because they dictate the bunk’s ability to withstand harsh conditions and properly support the boat. The galvanized steel ensures longevity. The adjustability (with additional brackets) allows for fine-tuning to match the hull shape.

Performance & Functionality

The Tie Down Roller Bunks perform their job admirably, making launching and loading a boat much easier. The rollers significantly reduce friction compared to traditional carpeted bunks. This results in smoother transitions on and off the trailer.

The strengths are their ease of use and robust construction. The main weakness is the lack of included mounting hardware, which adds to the overall cost. These bunks are also potentially too slippery on steep ramps, requiring extra caution.

These roller bunks meet and slightly exceed my expectations. They have made boat launching and loading significantly less stressful. The only letdown is the need to purchase additional hardware for complete installation.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tie Down Roller Bunks boast a simple but effective design. The galvanized steel frame is robust and corrosion-resistant. The rollers are strategically placed to provide optimal hull support.

They are very user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve. The rollers guide the boat into place with minimal effort.

Durability & Maintenance

The galvanized steel frame ensures the Tie Down Roller Bunks will last for many years, even in harsh saltwater environments. With proper care and occasional lubrication, they should provide reliable performance for a long time.

These are easy to maintain. A simple rinse with freshwater after each use is generally sufficient. Regular inspection of the rollers and frame for any signs of damage is also advisable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tie Down Roller Bunks themselves don’t come with many accessories. However, the optional 81210 8″ Bolster Swivel Brackets allow for vertical adjustment. This customization is crucial for achieving optimal hull support.

Compatibility with accessories from other brands may vary. It is essential to ensure any mounting hardware or brackets are compatible with the Tie Down Roller Bunks‘ frame dimensions. Check the specifications carefully before purchasing.

Pros and Cons of Tie Down Roller Bunks

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Who Should Buy Tie Down Roller Bunks?

Perfect for: Boat owners who frequently launch and retrieve their boats, especially solo. Also for those who struggle with traditional carpeted bunks. Pro anglers and recreational boaters who want to simplify the loading process will benefit greatly from the Tie Down Roller Bunks.

Who should skip this product? Those who primarily use very shallow ramps or have boats with unconventional hull shapes might not see as much benefit. Someone with a very small or lightweight boat might not justify the cost and effort of installation.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Definitely purchase the Tie Down 81210 8″ Bolster Swivel Brackets if you need vertical adjustment. Invest in high-quality, corrosion-resistant mounting hardware to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation.

Conclusion on Tie Down Roller Bunks

The Tie Down Roller Bunks offer a significant improvement over traditional carpeted bunks, making boat launching and loading much easier and more efficient. The heavy-duty construction and smooth-rolling design provide excellent hull support and reduce friction, simplifying the entire process.

The price of $193.99 is justified by the improved performance and durability. However, the additional cost of mounting hardware and swivel brackets (if needed) should be factored into the overall budget.

I would personally recommend the Tie Down Roller Bunks to any boat owner looking for a smoother, easier, and more reliable way to launch and load their boat. Upgrade your boating experience and ditch the struggling. Give these a try!