Need a new bimini before Bimini

[veedubtek]

Can't find much in the search. Deployed my Bimini for the first time today, and it's just absolute trash. Need a new one asap. Recommendations? I actually need a new cockpit cover too, so might do both at the same time. Was gonna go without, but with Bimini coming up, and from what I've read, I'll probably want my bow/cockpit covers as opposed to the mooring cover I'm using now.

 

[Andy S]

I would find a local custom canvas maker for both items. Don't throw away your thrashed Bimini top, they will want to use it as a pattern. Also, go with Sunbrella material for both your Bimini and your cover, Sunbrella will last longer than the factory material.

 

[Ronnie]

What's wrong with your current Bimini? Is it worn or just too small? You could buy just the material piece online from places like Yamaha sports plaza but it will cost you plenty for the same material you already have. Here is a link to an existing page for price reference purposes.

http://www.yamahasportsplaza.com/oemparts/a/yam/5003a211f870021f60a1232e/bimini-top-carpet

I agree with @andy07sx230ho and would go to a local canvas shop with the current Bimini material and probably the frame as well. They should be able to put one together for you for around half the cost of stock, using sunbrella material. The closest color to the stock I could find is cadet grey. There are three grades of sunbrella material. I went with the mid grade stuff on my Bimini extension, I think it was $20 per yard where as the other grades are +\- $5 per yard.

 

[veedubtek]

Yeah, mines a bit too small and was tearing as I zipped it yesterday. I've read enough to know I want the Sunbrella fabric, just kinda expected to do a quick google search and find pre-made covers readily available. Hadn't even considered having it made locally. I'll have to look around this week and see if we have a shop around here.

What'd you use for your extension, @Ronnie ? Got a thread on here anywhere about it?

 

[Bruce]

I don't belong that anyone covered their boats in Bimini last year. Just condition the seats before and after the trip. You will want a cover for trailering.

 

[Andy S]

@veedubtek based on the unique size of your bimini top, other than a factory replacement I doubt you will find a premade replacement.

 

[veedubtek]

You could be right @Bruce, I just sunburn like crazy and want to play it safe. I've got a mooring cover for trailering, but I've read that's a pita in a slip?

 

[Ronnie]

I used the frame of an 06 sx230 Bimini extemsion, sourced the sunbrella online and had it custom made by a friend, sewing has been a hobby of hers for along time. She also has a beefy enough machine to handle sunbrella, most aren't. My write up is on yjb but I will try and post some pics later if I can find them.

If you want to go the quick and easy route, I suggest that you place a wanted ad here an on yjb for a new / used Bimini for a 242ls. I've seen people selling theirs cheap as they get into custom tops. If you get one from a 12, 13 or 14, try and get the frame as well. These models used more poles than ours.

 

[Andy S]

@veedubtek to my knowledge on the 3 previous group trips no one has covered their boat while at the dock but that doesn't mean you can't. However, everyone does leave their bimini top up. So far I have not had any damage, sun or otherwise, from not covering my boat while at the dock or issues with rain water. Also, the cover takes up a good bit of storage room, once you pack clothes, food, and accessories you probably won't have much room left for a cover.

 

[Bruce]

Sorry if I misled, you certainly want your bimini for Bimini but I doubt you would cover your boat other than for trailering.

 

[veedubtek]

Nope, I just read it wrong. Drinking beers on the lake, lol. @DieselCamel told me the same thing. Thanks!

 

[ArmyChief]

Is there any spray material you can use on the factory bimini top to help it last?

 

[Andy S]

Is there any spray material you can use on the factory bimini top to help it last?

I use 303 fabric guard, I'm not sure how much it actually protects but it does re-establish the waterproofing. At the being of each season I clean my bimini top and reapply 303.

 

[veedubtek]

My local shop quoted me $500-$600, and expressed zero interest in actually doing it.

@waterboy @Julian @justason , anyone out there in the triangle worth looking into that you guys are familiar with?

 

[Julian]

@veedubtek I've not used anyone here in the triangle. The guys at Rollingview marina told me that they have a good canvas guy....but I've never used him or seen his work....

Rollingview's number is 919-596-2194 in case you want to give them a call and ask them who they use.

 

[waterboy]

@veedubtek try this guy. http://www.autointeriorsandtops.com/boats.htm I have read great reviews about him, so much so that is who I would go to hands down. He does work with Sunbrella. Will admit to not knowing much more about him though

Let me know what you find out.

 

[DieselCamel]

@veedubtek I hear there's a guy on South Main in Winston... Did a great headliner a couple of years ago

 

[veedubtek]

insert hyou'resofuckingfunny: gif here.

Pretty sure he doesn't want to see me again.

 

[DieselCamel]

There's probably more canvas shops around lake norman.. You search down there yet?

 

[veedubtek]

Only looked here so far. In Raleigh all the time, easier to look there next.