Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick Review

Getting Up Close with the Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick

When the carpet on my trailer bunks started to fray and my boat began to stick during loading and unloading, I knew it was time for a change. The friction was not only making the process a chore but also potentially damaging the hull over time. I needed a solution that would provide a smoother glide, and that’s when I stumbled upon the Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick. This product promises to make transferring boats on and off trailers significantly easier by providing a slick, low-friction surface.

My initial impression upon unboxing was one of practical utility. The bunks themselves are molded from a durable-looking PVC material, designed to be bolted directly onto existing carpeted bunk boards. They feel robust and ready for the elements. I had considered generic plastic sheeting and even some more elaborate roller systems, but the simplicity and direct application of these slicks appealed to my preference for straightforward, effective solutions. My first reaction was a feeling of quiet optimism; this seemed like a sensible, no-nonsense upgrade that would address my specific problem.

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

First Use Experience

I tested these bunk slicks in my home garage, a typical environment for trailer boat maintenance. The primary scenario was loading and unloading my aluminum fishing boat after a weekend on the water. The conditions were standard: dry pavement, a slight incline to the driveway, and the usual resistance from a damp hull.

Performance in these conditions was noticeably improved. The boat slid onto the trailer with far less effort, and unloading was equally smooth. The ease of use was immediate; there was no learning curve. From the moment they were installed, the difference was palpable. The only slight quirk was ensuring the bolts were flush, so they wouldn’t snag, which required a bit of attention during the initial installation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and numerous boat launches and retrievals, these bunk slicks have held up remarkably well. They’ve endured sun, rain, and the constant friction of a boat sliding over them. There are no visible signs of cracking or significant wear and tear, and they remain consistently slick.

Maintenance has been virtually non-existent. A quick rinse with a hose is all they’ve ever needed to keep them free of mud and debris. Compared to the old carpet, which constantly held moisture and grime, this is a significant improvement. They’ve definitely outperformed the worn-out carpet and frankly, felt more reliable than some of the stick-on roller guides I’ve tried in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick

Specifications

The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick comes in specific dimensions of 1-3/4″ x 17″. They are constructed from durable PVC, designed to withstand the rigors of boat trailers and water exposure. These slicks are intended to be bolted directly onto any standard bunk board, which typically range in width.

The 1-3/4″ width provides ample coverage for most standard bunk profiles, ensuring a good contact surface for smooth gliding. The 17″ length offers a substantial sliding area, reducing the points of friction significantly. Their construction from PVC is key to their low-friction properties, allowing boats to slide on and off with much less resistance.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of these bunk slicks is to facilitate smooth boat transfer. They excel at this, drastically reducing the effort required to winch a boat onto a trailer and making it easier to launch. The difference is immediately noticeable, turning a potentially strenuous task into a much more manageable one.

The main strength is undoubtedly the smooth, consistent glide they provide. A potential weakness, if not properly installed, could be the bolt heads creating minor snags, but this is easily mitigated. Overall, they not only meet but exceed expectations for their intended purpose, especially considering their straightforward design.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional, focusing on direct application. The molded PVC feels sturdy and resilient, suggesting good longevity. While there aren’t complex ergonomic features, their shape is designed to conform well to standard bunk boards.

The finish of the PVC is inherently slick, which is its most important “ergonomic” feature for the boat. The pre-drilled holes for mounting are adequately spaced, making the installation process straightforward for most users. The overall feel is one of robust utility, built for purpose rather than aesthetics.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials and intended use, these bunk slicks are designed for long-term durability. Under normal trailer use, they should last for many seasons, resisting wear from boat hulls and environmental exposure. The PVC construction is inherently resistant to rot and mildew, unlike carpet.

Maintenance is incredibly simple; a periodic rinse is usually sufficient. There are no complex parts to clean or maintain, making them a low-hassle addition to any trailer. Potential failure points would likely be due to improper installation or extreme, unforeseen damage, rather than inherent design flaws.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick unit itself is the primary product, with no specific accessories typically bundled. However, the product is designed to work with standard bunk boards, and the necessary hardware for attachment (bolts, washers, nuts) are usually readily available at any hardware store.

These slicks are not designed for extensive customization beyond selecting the appropriate length if available in different sizes. Their straightforward nature means they integrate directly onto existing bunk boards without needing adapters or special mounting systems. The key is ensuring you have appropriate mounting hardware for your specific bunk material and trailer frame.

Pros and Cons of Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick

Who Should Buy Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick?

These bunk slicks are ideal for boat owners who frequently load and unload their vessels and have experienced issues with their boat sticking to the trailer bunks. They are perfect for anyone with a boat trailer that utilizes carpeted bunk boards and wants a more reliable, less strenuous system. Home mechanics and DIY enthusiasts who perform their own trailer maintenance will find them a straightforward and effective upgrade.

Individuals who might want to skip these are those who already have a roller system or specialized bunk material that doesn’t require additional friction reduction. Also, if your trailer is rarely used, the investment might not be as critical. For optimal use, ensuring you have appropriate stainless steel hardware for mounting is a good recommendation to prevent rust.

Conclusion on Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick

The Tie Down Engineering 86170 Bunk Slick offers a simple yet highly effective solution to a common problem for boat owners. Its robust PVC construction and straightforward design translate into reliable performance and ease of use. The value proposition is strong; for the price, you gain a significant improvement in the practicality and safety of loading and unloading your boat.

I would personally recommend these bunk slicks to any boat owner struggling with friction on their trailer. They are a practical, durable upgrade that makes a tangible difference in day-to-day boating activities. If you’re looking for a no-fuss way to make your boat trailer more user-friendly, these are definitely worth considering.