Posted by W J Moody on 07/22/12 - 11:44 AM
#1
Just purchased a 1989 Rage 18 & need new Bimini (frame no good also). Talked to Mills Canvas concerning a new top but due to our location the shipping cost estimated by Mills was about 25% of the total top cost. This moves it over reasonable for something not used much. Has anybody had any experience with on line sellers (some offer "free" shipping) as to quality & fit? A number have tops manufactured with stainless frames & Sunbrella canvas. Any suggestions apprecioated. Thanks
Edited by Joe Kriz on 07/22/12 - 11:53 AM
Posted by seanwilmnc on 07/22/12 - 2:51 PM
#3
I just bought a stainless bimini from the company listed below. Shipping was $17 and stainless bimini with Sunbrella material, boot and support poles all for $339. The quality is very very good. I received in 5 days. The only problem for me is I have a montauk and I need 54" and they only have 46" high so my brother is going to fabricate it for me. Good Luck
http://www.safeguardcovers.com/v/vspf...iminis.asp
Posted by Turpin on 07/22/12 - 3:01 PM
#4
I have a generic with sunbrella canvas and am very pleased. It was originally on my dads old boat so it's about 20yrs old. Other than wear marks from him not using a storage boot it looks great. I'm not sure where it was purchased but I'd guess Basspro or Cabelas.
You say seldom used but I have to admit that it is a really nice retreat on the scalding hot days to have shade readily available. It has been one of the best things I added to my boat.
On these tops some things to consider also:
hardware- some (most all cheaper tops) come with plastic hardware, some people may prefer stainless. You can swap the plastic out for stainless later if you prefer.
Tubing- You can get the frame in different diameters (3/4", 7/8", 1")as well as different type material stainless or aluminum. Some may not offer different Diameters.
Be very, very careful if purchasing from online buyers. It may look like an incredibly cheap deal but read the buyer reviews(if/when offered). I have seen some borderline false advertisement where the seller appears to be offering a complete frame and canvas but in fact if you read very close they only offer the canvas and are just using some tricky wording.