232bimini top mounting options

[siebt]

Like many 232 owners that have posted before, I cannot image why Rinker put such a diminuitive bimini on the boat.  It is mostly worthless and I do not use it anymore.  However, I would like to have shade and would like to go to a larger, aftermarket bimini.

I am wondering what other people have done as far as mounting an aftermarket top.  I do not like having the thing mounted to the side glass, as it puts substantial stress on it and makes it loose and rattle.

I would prefer that it is not mounted to the outside of the boat, so that the cover still fits.

I would prefer that the bimini lay down on the sundeck so that the cover could be put on without removing it.

So, maybe I should specifically ask:  Has anyone mounted a bimini to the cockpit walls; inside the windscreen?

Thanks for any input.

[mvn]

Good idea.  I don't see why not.  There are fittings that would suitable.  BTW, I've added plastic (delrin) washers at all mounting locations and anywhere there's a fastener to fill any gaps and eliminate any rattling.

Mark

[RobyW1]

I installed a pontoon bimini on my 232 a few months ago. It is 10' in length and I mounted it on the outside of the boat. I haven't had a chance to take pictures of it yet but I will today and post them on my facebook. Now mine will not lay down on the sundeck because the bimini tubes will interfere with the side of the boat and scratch it up if  you try. I leave mine resting on the rear supports.

Bimini Top pics posted.

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.225403387487531.72613.100000536146131

[siebt]

MVN and RobyW1,

Thank-you for the input.

The Delrin washers are a good idea.  I will have to borrow that idea from you.  My windshield rattles.

Is the pontoon bimini square tubing?  10' would be awesome.  By the way, I tried to follow the link to the pictures and it didn't work.

Happy boating.

[scheerce]

You have to log into facebook to see the pics. 
Roby have you had that cover out at WOT on a windy day?  Does it rattle a lot.

[RobyW1]

I have had it to about 40 on a somewhat windy day. the front straps chatter in the wind but there is not much I can do about it. I tried slicing a noodle and puting it over the front straps. it stopped the chattering but looked stupid. The rest of the top is pretty stable.

[mvn]

Have you tried giving the straps a twist or two?

Mark

[RobyW1]

Have you tried giving the straps a twist or two?

Mark

Yes but they just chatter at a higher pitch :)

[puttin]

I have the factory one that indeed attaches to the side windshield...it's very sturdy and I've had it up to 50 mph or so...my only gripe is-it's not big enough

[Gene]

I mounted mine to the outside like others and it will not lay down. If I did it over I would get a narrower top and mount it to the inside gunwall or near the handrails so it will lay down. I am planning on replacing the front straps that buzz in the wind with support poles just like the rears.

[Gene]

Have you tried giving the straps a twist or two?

Mark

Yes but they just chatter at a higher pitch :)had a buddy's 272 out the other day and it had pole instead of straps out front, they dont chatter.