www.iFourWinns.com

Boat in question is a Horizon 180 with a 5.0 V8, 2800# or so in weight, my trailer has 4 bunks for the boat to sit on and the new 4500# hoist I just bought has only 2 bunks, 1 on either side of the keel. Is that enough to properly handle the weight when the boat is on the hoist or should I some how add 2 more bunks? I do understand you probably need 4 trailer bunks only when bouncing down the highway.

2 bunks should be fine. Many bunk trailers only have 2.

I had a cantilever lift for my last boat. It was setup so the keel was supported by the 2 cross members (sitting on pads). The 2 bunks provided minimal support keeping the boat positioned square and upright.

The keel is the strongest part of your boat. If you are not supporting your boat by its keel be sure to spread the load the best you can to avoid any sort of point load.

Cheers.

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2004 - 288 Vista
Twin - 5.0 Volvo Penta GXi DP

Yes, 2 bunks is fine (and quite normal) for a boat lift.

I think the 4 bunk setup on FW trailers is for easy self-centering.

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"Knot Easy" 2000 Horizon 240 Volvo 5.7GS /SX
tow: 2017 Honda PILOT EXL-AWD
prev. boats:
'87 Chaparral 198CXL 4.3 OMC Cobra
'69 Jetstar 16ft Ski Boat, 115hp Yamaha
'68 Aluminum Jon Boat, 3hp Sears
'64 Water Wings

Thanks to all, I do appreciate the reply's.