Bimini installation opinions please.

[jgl1962]

I am planning on getting a bimini for our 1999 Larson this year. I would really like to utilize the existing mounts on the side glass frame that the current convertible top attaches to.

I can't see why it would be an issue if it's ok to mount the convertible top there. But I don't want to break something either.

The reasons for doing beyond being able to utilize those mounts, is that I can the stow the bimini in the engine/storage compartment. Just like the original top.

The fact that you can run on plane with the convertible makes me think that running at just off idle with a bimini would be OK.

Agree or disagree, Iappreciate your input.

Thanks
Jim

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Bimini installation opinions please.

Should work just fine. You should be able to plane with the bimini up. I have put many bimini top struts and straps to windshield frames without problems. I wouldn't try trailering it with the top up, though.

 

[tschmidty]

Re: Bimini installation opinions please.

Definitely no to the trailering. The only thing I would do is cut the poles down to lower the top some. A standard bimini is sized to hit the gunwales so you don't want ti way up in the air.

 

[cribber]

Re: Bimini installation opinions please.

Just remember to put a couple of twists in the front straps to keep them from vibrating in the wind when you go on plane.

 

[tschmidty]

Re: Bimini installation opinions please.

That's a good point, it is also a very good idea to put the strap eyelets either inboard or outboard of the poles at least a couple of inches. This will help keep the whole bimini from shaking side to side.

 

[Prophammer]

Re: Bimini installation opinions please.

I do trailer with bimini up around town and feel stupid while doing it (only because it looked stupid when my brother in-law did it), I figure if it can handle water speed why not road speed? Never any actual problems doing so, But out on the highway I stow it.

 

[jgl1962]

Re: Bimini installation opinions please.

Thanks for the replies guys. We don't trailer, it lives on a lift. We also don't run fast with them up (had a bimini on our old boat and it wobbled so much we just stow it. That's what we'd do with this one to. I hear you on the twists...learned that one quickly before.