Lost Bimini Thumb screw

[LeeCeeB]

So we went out on our new MX 185 and we lost a thumb screw that attaches the Bimini to the bottom of the lake. it unwound it self with the vibration I am assuming. The dealer said to keep checking it but I didn't think he meant every 5 minutes.

Question is, Has anyone else had trouble with these threaded devices coming out and if so has anyone come up with a better way of attaching their bimini? I am thinking of adding a lock washer and some sort of cable to keep it from falling in the water if it does come loose.

thoughts?



Thanks!

 

[jeffnick]

Re: Lost Bimini Thumb screw

http://www.marinepartdepot.com/newststqurep1.html

 

[LeeCeeB]

Re: Lost Bimini Thumb screw

Thanks Jeffnick but the thumb screw is a 1/4 inch number 10 with a black plastic handle. Went to the dealer today and he gave me a new one. I have done some digging of older threads and this is not an uncommon problem. I think I will try the locktight mixed with water solution.

 

[BaileysBoat]

Re: Lost Bimini Thumb screw

Get yourself a quick release pin with safety lanyard, right here at iboats.

 

[zzchipster]

Re: Lost Bimini Thumb screw

all the issues i have had with my 2008 gt185xl have been with the bimini. mine came with both screws with knobs and a set with no knobs. u gotta just check each time and tighten as much as u can w/o stripping. the aluminum bimini rods also continuously leaves black marks on the fiberglass. 3m boat/fiberglass scratch remover/cleaner is a must have. i have used it as a general rubbing compound on several things. very gentle compound. u also gotta keep bimini in back position when traveling and either put it back in the supplied cover or use the units straps to wrap around it to keep the air from inflating it.

 

[yamahas]

Re: Lost Bimini Thumb screw

I think I will try the locktight mixed with water solution.

I would try the locktite. Should be the solution. Make sure you don't try to tighten it up after you have the locktite on and break the seal, unless it get loose again.

 

[jeffnick]

Re: Lost Bimini Thumb screw

Get yourself a quick release pin with safety lanyard, right here at iboats.

This guy has the right idea. Drill out the threads and use a quick release pin.