1.1 Before and after installation Photo, (Complete photo courtesy of www.boatrailer.com)

Thank you for choosing Gatorbak Bunk Covers. Made in the USA from our proprietary synthetic blend, our covers are built from 100% virgin materials and backed by a 3-year warranty. Don’t forget to register your warranty on Gatorbaks' WARRANTY & PRODUCT REGISTRATION page.

Instruction download and print formatted is available here:

Before You Begin

This guide covers installation for Gatorbak GB7 models. Because trailer and lift setups vary, these steps serve as a general reference. If you have questions, contact our support team—we’re happy to help.

Fig 1.2 Common Installation tools

Warning; this guide recommends the use of various tools and or power tools for installation. Be sure that all appropriate safety precautions are used to avoid injury to persons or equipment. Follow all manufacturers recommendations of tool use at all times.

Step 1 – Prepare Bunk Beams

Start with new or replacement bunk beams. Measure to ensure proper fit. Let treated lumber dry before installation. Trim if needed. Mark bracket locations on the backside of the beam to assist later.

Tips and Tricks:

- Use new lumber and pre-install at the ramp when your boat is off the trailer

- Replace any worn hardware and address rust or corrosion

- Side-mounted brackets can go over the cover or the cover can be trimmed; if trimmed, secure the area with extra hardware

Step 2 – Dry Fit Covers and Plan End Caps

Lay out covers to check fit. Add about ½" to the cover length for end cap overlap. End caps are optional but enhance the look. Use excess GB7 material to trace and cut caps.

Tips and Tricks:

- Flat end caps can mount flush or recessed with ~½" cover overlap

- For recessed style, mount caps first to ensure proper alignment

FIG 2 Plan how the end and the rest of your bunk covers will appear when completed

Step 3 – Install Covers

Start by securing the outside angled leg of the cover to the bunk beam using screws spaced 6–8" apart. Begin with two screws near the end for a secure start. Then pull the rest of the cover tight and clamp it in place before securing the top face. All screws should go along the sides—never through the top—to avoid hull damage.

Tips and Tricks:

- Clamp as you go for a tight fit

- Pre-drill with a marked bit to save time

- Mark screw holes every 8" after your starter screws

- To improve bending at corners, apply gentle heat if needed

FIG 3.0 Left, Note the screw placement for the end of the bunk board. Right(2), Attaching the cover to the front of beam, Screws should be placed on last row or two of ridges along front side, far and away from any possible contact point with hull.

 

If the Inside face of your GB7 Cover is longer on your Beam application you may also consider adding additional hardware to ensure a snug fit. While stailess steel screw with button heads are recommended you may use staples in areas that you wish to have extra fasteners for cosmetic use. IN the below picture screws are mounted alternating with the primary mounting hardware.

FIG 3.2 Additional screws installed to secure excess cover width. If desired cover can be trimmed to any final width. Ensure all screws are mounted within the channels and away from any facing that contacts the hull. Stainless Steel Staples can be used  as well (not shown) as the primary mounting is done with the recommended screws.

Step 4: End Cap Installation

Flat Style:
Trim cover to be flush with the end of the beam. Attach end cap using screws. Cap should span the full end surface edge to edge.

FIG 4 Use the end of the bunk Beam to create the pattern that you need for your end cap, once mounted trim the End of the cover or cap to complete the fit.

Recessed Style End Cap Installation:
Mount cap first, flush to the beam. Then install the cover with ½" overlap.

FIG 4.1 Use the end of the bunk Beam to create the pattern that you need for your end cap, once mounted trim the End of the cover or cap to complete the fit.

Tips:

- Painted head screws will hide the screws better, and allow for a different finish to your project

- Edges of ribs that are exposed can be knocked down with a file for a cleaner appearance if desired. 

- Additional Stainless steel staples can be used to aide with mounting the endcaps to help secure the ends, if desired.

 

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Gatobak Bunk Use
Some break-in of the ribs is typical, When you first begin Using your new bunks you may see areas of your bunks that will wear a little more than others. This is typical and once the new parts and the vessel have gone through a few loading cycles together this will subside. Often times high spots on the boards or in the bunk cradle will show these areas.

In the event that the wear is showing in places where this is not the case, some adjustment may be necessary.

While the boat is loaded and centered on the chines where it should be, loosen the bunk assembly bolts to allow the bunks to align themselves with the hull (for proper tilt). Gatorbak bunk covers allow you to see the true fit of your bunks to your vessel. In some cases the bunks can be installed with spacers to allow a precise fit. Once the best fit is achieved, be sure to re-tighten all hardware to recommended torque specifications,

Caring for Your Gatorbak Bunk Covers

Maintaining your Gatorbak bunks is simple and helps extend their life. Our covers are built with UV and anti-fungal protection, so they hold up well against sun, moisture, and outdoor elements.

Before each launch or retrieval, inspect your bunks for dirt, sand, or debris. Even small particles can cause unnecessary abrasion to your hull over time. A quick rinse with water usually does the trick. For deeper cleaning, use a soft brush and mild detergent. Regular cleaning helps ensure a smooth surface and prevents buildup from extended trailering or storage.

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Loading & Hull Protection

Gatorbak covers are made from a synthetic material that’s softer than your boat’s finish, offering reliable protection during loading and trailering. You may notice slight “rub-off” marks—similar to pencil eraser marks—on your hull. These are normal and can be wiped away with a damp cloth or removed with standard hull cleaner if needed.

Loading feel may vary slightly depending on ramp conditions, hull design, and which Gatorbak cover you use. Some users find Gatorbak slightly grippier than carpet, while others say it’s slicker. The XP Series provides the smoothest glide, especially when wet.

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Power Loading Guidelines

We do not recommend power loading (using throttle to push the boat onto the trailer) or dry loading. These methods can damage your boat, trailer, or vehicle—and may void your warranty.

Warranty Notes:

Power loading voids the warranty on Gatorbak Lift and HD Series Covers.

XP Series Covers (made after March 2019) allow power loading with wet bunks.

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General Loading Tips

Ramp conditions vary, but here’s a reliable process:

1. Back the trailer in until bunks are fully wet.

2. Pull forward slightly so bunk tops are just above the waterline.

3. Gently drive or guide the boat onto the trailer.

4. Attach the winch strap and pull the boat into the stop.

5. Secure your transom and safety straps.

Note: Gatorbak defines power loading as aggressive throttle use. Loading under power at idle speed is acceptable and will not affect your warranty.