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Outrage 270 T-Top Canvas Replacement with Hard top?
looking for a little guidance...I recently inherited a 2003 Outrage 270. Sat for a long while, so I just repowered her and are working to clean her up. One thing that is evident is that the t top canvas is in horrific shape. Contemplating converting over to a hard top, if thats even possible. Wondering what others would recommend and if a hard top is worth while- who are some aftermarket companies that make something that will fit.
I did a similar project. I purchased a hardtop/framework from a 27' Whaler and modified it to fit my 22' 1979 Revenge. The hardtop would have tipped over the boat so I just used the framework. I purchased some 1" anodized aluminum channel for framework and used 3/8" Marine Starboard for the top. My seem runs down the center and the pieces are connected together with anodized aluminum H beam. The inner H beam width is the 3/8" and I used some stainless screws, nuts, bolts for attaching. I am "kinda" disappointed with the product but not too disappointed. I used the sandstone color which looks fine. However.....the Starboard is very unstable. In the hot sun it expands and you can definitely see a blistering effect which goes away when it cools. I would also use a heavier gauge framework. It does look great in the cooler conditions. I did run across some generic prefab tops when Google searching and did stumble on a couple of contacts/fabricators but I went the Starboard route. If I did it over again I would go with a single piece factory generic top.
The challenge is finding a fabricator to make one for you and the cost.
I suppose Portland Yacht Services would be able to recommend someone. I might go in and ask the guys at Hamilton Marine, check their bulletin board.
If it were me I would go online and search for a replacement cover. If no joy, get a sailmaker to make. There used to be a good one in one of the buildings of the Portland Company.
BTW - I lived in SoPo before moving to KY a few years ago.
Edited by Phil T on 09/12/17 - 5:16 AM
1992 Outrage 17 I
2019 E-TEC 90, Viper 17 2+
2018 Load Rite Elite 18280096VT
I got "....bit by the bug...." again. Just did some quick searching. I recalled that the search wording matters. I entered "Boat hardtops" and got nowhere. Plugged in "aftermarket hard top boat" and came up with Ocean View Marine Welding. You will get sticker shock. I believe there is a product out there at a reasonable cost (under $2000) but you really will have to search. Also, an expensive item to ship. I could have gone the aluminum route but the look just did not fit with the Whaler. I would heed Phil's advice and go canvas or be prepared for a lot of research and discovery.
