Help with bimini top...

watchinthebobber

watchinthebobber

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 26, 2008
Messages
143
I'm trying to purchase a top for my '94 Bayliner 1850 Capri. I'm torn between having one custom built and buying pre-built. I've already spoken to the custom shop and they will build me a 3 bow with all stainless fittings for around $425. I'm thinking I really need a 4 bow for extra shade and that would probably run me an extra $100. The shop bends all their tubes out of one piece instead of using rivets and claims they will hold up better. I've used the prebuilt in the past and haven't had any problems. Will the 4 bow fit my boat ok when it's collapsed or are they made for larger boats? I don't want to try to install one just to find out it will hang too far off the back when collapsed. We use our boat primarily for fishing so I want it tall enough to walk under comfortably. What height will I need? I see some decent pre made tops for $350 - $400 and I'm sure I could install them myself. Any brand recommendations for good tops/frames? Any guidance is appreciated!

Thanks
 
tashasdaddy

tashasdaddy

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SS MAYFLOAT

SS MAYFLOAT

Admiral
Joined
May 17, 2001
Messages
6,372
Re: Help with bimini top...

I bought 2 from iboats 5 years ago. This will be the 6th year this season. I'm real happy with them. Paid $535 for both. They do have the aluminum tubing, but I find them about equal to stainless. However, I only do fresh water. I'm sure salt water would have more of a reaction on the aluminum.

I have noticed that this year the canvas covering is faded somewhat. During last season, water would puddle in one section of the 3 bow. It then began to form a bit of a drip underneath that area. Wasn't bad, but for 5 years of being subjected to natures elements, I feel it has done real well.

Here is a pic of mine. I use the 4 bow on the bridge and the 3 bow on the rear deck.

boat3.jpg
 
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