Pvc Boat cover support help

[Al3x2015]

I have a 1983 bayliner Capri with a cuddy cabin. I already have a cover for it that I got from vortex boat covers and I also got a support system that uses nylon straps to hold the cover up. The problem is that these straps do not work and it causes my cover to sag and fill up with water if we get any rain. My boat also has a high rail on top of the cabin that pretty much turns the cover in the front into a pool. I am wanting to build a pvc structure as a frame for my cover that stops any water from pooling onto my cover. I also want it to be pretty easily removable. I am wanting any suggestions on how I could build this and possibly some pictures of anyone's boat that is similar to mine or also has a cuddy cabin. Any input is greatly appreciated!

 

[GA_Boater]

Welcome aboard.

How about pictures of your boat with and without the cover.

 

[airshot]

Should be quite easy with some pvc plumbing pipe from your local home supply company (home depot, Lowes etc.) Just some lengths to go from front to back and side to side to hold up the sagging areas. Pvc is cheap enough so if you make the support to long/tall you can trim it down until the cover fits tight as you want it to. Add a small piece of foam rubber under the pipe wherever it touches your deck so no marks are left on your deck. Look around this is quite popular on boats put up for winter storage.

 

[robert graham]

I've heard of folks getting a couple of large vehicle inner-tubes, fully inflated to put in/on the boat in strategic locations to help support a cover....I'v

 

[smokeonthewater]

Towable tubes, coolers etc placed in strategic locations...
Wood or PVC bows across rails

Support poles added to existing system.

 

[hosteter]

I put in cockpit in the middle a pvc tube and in front on the rails wood planks.this works good for me and we have much rain and snow in winter.

 

[dpoff]

I found that tying a rope from the winch stand then over the windshield and back to the outdrive (cover over that)worked pretty well for me. Don`t know if if would work for you or not. Thought I`d throw it out there.

 

[StarTed]

I have done lots of bending of electrical PVC conduit while giving snowshoe building classes mostly for scouts. We tried the white water PVC but it becomes too brittle when cold. The electrical stuff is more durable. 1" schedule 40 will slide inside 1 1/4" and you can drill and pin it if needed. Nails work fine. I've heated and bent 1 1/4" over another piece of PVC to form 2 legs angling down. This can be drilled and screwed down to another piece to make fittings for legs. Just drape a tarp over this and fasten it down for the wind. I use a propane burner (a camp stove will work) to heat the PVC. If you don't want marshmallow looking ends keep it moving and not too close. Take your time, it'll get like soft spaghetti.

I've even swelled the ends of 3/4" PVC to accept 1/2" PVC using a home made expanding mandrel. That's what we did for the snow shoes. After around 700 pairs I retired and moved and never restarted. I still have all my special tools I made including special propane heaters. It takes lots of tools to run a class of 20 to 25 students.

Have fun and be creative. Look forward to seeing your finished product.