what size bimini top?

[Wvawitrado]

I have a 1973 cobalt deep v tri hull what size bimini top does it take?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: what size bimini top?

you have to measure the width of the boat, i perfer to go to the next higher number. i like a 6 ft length. i also like and inside sliding track mount.

 

[12vMan]

Re: what size bimini top?

I agree 6' is a good length for your boats bimini top. You will also need to determine the height you want.

Many people think that they would like to be able to walk under their top without bending over. This is not always the best idea. Normally, in a small pleasure boat (15' -24') the occupants are standing only 5% of the time or less. There are exceptions to this rule of thumb such as pontoon/patio boats or boats that need the driver to be standing up in order to pilot the boat. When a bimini top is installed too high, there are trade-offs. One too high will not cover the desired area as well as one that is lower. Also, wind resistance increases as the top gets higher and if you had wanted a sail boat, you probably would have purchased one in the first place!

To determine the correct height for your top, place a straight object across the boat at the gunnel height (where you believe your mounting brackets will be located). From there, measure straight up to the desired height of your bimini top.

To determine the correct width for your top, measure across your boat from gunnel to gunnel at the location where you would like the bimini top to be mounted. Keep in mind that on a 6' long top the brackets will be positioned about 1/2 way from the front (or back) of the bimini.

 

[HuckleberrySlim]

Re: what size bimini top?

My bimini is a little wider than my boat's beam. One thing I didn't consider is my boat narrows slightly at the transom, where my top lays when it's stowed. Even though i have a boot it still sticks out flapping in the wind a little when my boat is trailered.
TD is giving you good advice about the slide track mounts, they're definately the way to go.
I believe 12VMan is giving good advice that you'll probably be glad you took when the rain or sun is coming at an angle.

 

[QC]

Re: what size bimini top?

I generally agree with 12v dude but I do like to stand at the helm. I like my tops just high enough to get my head under while standing (I am only 5'7", so easier for me than some), or I like to be able to stand at the helm with my head just in front of the fore end of the bimini. Another advantage to low biminis is that the shade lasts later in the day . . .

Aslo, go DARK. I especially like dark blue as it doesn't fade. Dark biminis just feel cooler and are easier on the eyes.

 

[JJwithaSearay]

Re: what size bimini top?

Gotta be tall enough to walk under with a few inches to spare. 6 inches taller is not going to make a difference on wind resistence. I am not aware of the sliding bracket. What is the advantage ?? As to length it depends on the length of you r boat, the length from windshield to stern, and even your weather. Here in Texas we like LOTS of shade. My 17 foot SeaRay had a 6 foot top and it looked a little too long. The first thing did with my 21 foot Celeb was to ditch the cheapie that came with and buy a nice 6 footer with a great looking gray tweed fabric. One more thing...I like the crutches in the back so that you can store it in the up position while closed. Keeps it out of the way. Looks cool too. Second one-more-thing....get stainless fittings not the plastic crap.
Good Luck...stay cool

 

[stevewolverton]

Re: what size bimini top?

My bimini is very low. It's only a few inches from the windshield. It's much more difficult to get under than a taller bimini, but it also looks much better (imho) lower, and it offers more protection being lower. It's trade-offs.

I think any bimini is better than no bimini though.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: what size bimini top?

these are the same bimini, when i sold the blue boat i took the top off, and cut the height down by 24 inches, and mounted on the green boat. i can still walk under it with out ducking my head.