1.1 Before and After Installation Photo

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
- These instructions apply to GBXXX models.

- Gatorbak Premium Smoke Bunk Covers (sized to fit your boards)

- Common Gatorbak installation tools (see main guide)

- Router or similar tool to groove bunk boards

- Tape measure & marking pencil

- Wiring tools and connectors

Optional tools may be helpful for specific methods.

Safety Note: Use caution when operating power tools. Always follow manufacturer instructions. Do not modify bunk boards in a way that weakens their structure. Light customization only.

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: Plan Your Custom Bunks

Begin with new or replacement bunk boards. Measure to confirm correct length. Plan your layout if you're painting the boards or installing LED strips.

Tips:

- Fit covers first to visualize screw and end cap placement.

- Plan wiring routes if using LED lights.

- Leave room for connectors and caps.

- Use waterproof, high-quality LED strips.

- Follow all DOT lighting regulations for trailers.

Step 2: Fit Boards Before Customizing

Dry-fit the Smoke Covers and end caps to ensure proper length. End caps should be mounted first, with the cover overlapping the cap by ~½". This also helps determine screw and wire placement.

Tips:

- Mark boards and covers to match them up during final assembly.

- Do not fully tighten screws yet—save that for final install.

FIG 3 Plan how the end and the rest of your bunk covers will appear when completed

Step 3: Optional – LED Strip Installation

For recessed lighting, cut grooves into the top of the bunk board using a router or dado blade. This allows the Smoke Cover to lay flat over the LEDs.

Tips:

- Cut grooves straight for clean results.

- Leave room for adhesive backing or mounting tape.

- Add separate wire channels if needed.

- Light disperses differently—ribs diffuse it, flat areas shine through.

- Side-mounting strips is possible, but avoid screw areas and corners.

- Use multiple strips for wider bunks.

- Short strips provide visibility; full-length strips offer maximum glow.

FIG 4 Marking, Planning and Cutting Grooves for LED Strips

Step 4: Finish Your Bunk Boards

Smoke Covers allow your bunk color to show through the sides. The UV protectant adds a light blue tint, especially on thicker top sections. Use this step to add color if desired.

Tips:

- Solid colors work best; prints may blur.

- Match bunk colors to boat trim for a cohesive look.

- Use waterproof or exterior-grade finishes.

- Finish all visible surfaces—including tips and sides.

- Let paint dry fully before final assembly.

Step 5: Final Assembly

After painting, install LED strips (if used), route wiring, attach end caps, and install the Smoke Covers. Replace old bunks with your finished ones and connect trailer wiring as needed.

Tips:

- Allow sealants to cure before assembly.

- Run wires underneath bunks and secure them along brackets.

- Use waterproof, fused wiring connections.

- Clean bunks regularly to maintain appearance and lighting clarity.

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.