Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Outrage 270 T-Top Canvas Replacement with Hard top?

Posted by Petrichor on 09/10/17 - 12:32 PM
#1

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.

Thanks in advance!

Posted by gchuba on 09/11/17 - 7:48 PM
#2

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.

Posted by Phil T on 09/12/17 - 5:15 AM
#3

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

Posted by gchuba on 09/12/17 - 6:59 AM
#4

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.

Posted by gchuba on 09/12/17 - 10:51 AM
#5

Your search may go different routes. I just thought "single piece tonneau cover". Like I said it got to be out there maybe think outside the box.

Edited by gchuba on 09/12/17 - 3:17 PM