242 Limited SE Bimini fabric deterioration

[captras]

Does anybody know if the bimini fabric is a warranty item. I have a 2016 with a 4 year extended warranty. The boat is always under cover, and the top is taken off during the off season. Pics so the fabric fraying and separating. Suggestions?

 

[Julian]

I'm going to guess that the bimini is not covered....but it can't hurt to ask!!! I think there is a label on it from the manufacturer....I'm going to be curious what your answer is on this one....following!

 

[captras]

Going to check out the label when I go up this weekend. But I also doubt it will be under warranty!

 

[Rob9550]

I had an issue with mine and the company asked me to send it in for repair. I had to pay shipping but that was much cheaper than a new Bimini...

 

[captras]

Could not find a manufacturer name but I checked with Yamaha... they said the bimini is only covered the first 12 months! It's not bad and not noticeable unless you are anal about your boat like I am . If it actually starts to tear I guess I will look into repair or replace.

 

[props2you]

Find anything out on this?

I'm due...

 

[captras]

This is my 4th year, and other than some fraying I have had no problems. I just trim the frayed threads and all is well. Top is actually holding up well. Other than when on the water, the boat is always under cover, which probably helps. When I do replace, it will be a with the darker bimini.

 

[AmesJainchill]

Pretty sure I read somewhere that the Bimini is made by Surlast (as opposed to Sunbrella), at least recently. Maybe this warranty applies? Of course it only says 3 years, not 4.. Maybe there was a different policy in 2016? Maybe the dealer can help with discounts on replacement if the warranty expires right before a problem occurs?

 

[Julian]

I'm heading into year 5 with mine and still ok (knock on wood), and mine stays on all summer while she bakes in the NC sun on the lift in the slip! I' ve wondered about spraying it (and the mooring cover) with a sealant, but would want to talk to the manufacturer to be sure I used something they recommend before I do that!

On my last cockpit and bow cover that I had made (which was MUCH thicker and stronger fabric), I would clean it with a GENTLE spray from a power washer, then seal with marine fabric sealant. Water would bead and roll off it when I was done! Both the bimini and mooring cover still do this, but no where near as well as in 2016.

 

[Julian]

Looks like Surlast says " cleaning with harsh cleaners such as bleach will require a retreatment like 303 High Tech Fabric Guard for restoring water repellency. "

 

[props2you]

Finally got the new top in and installed, what a PIA! It does NOT come pre stretched, had to use a ratchet strap to pull it over the top corner of the cage. I didn't expect it to be that bad. Good thing I didn't wait closer to launch, we would have been SOL. I did put a good coat of 303 fabric guard on and boy is that stuff amazing! Picked it up from Yamaha Sports Plaza for $350, thought that was a GREAT price!