Re: Thinking of installing bimini top braces. thoughts?
Front straps put tension on the rear braces and the whole thing is just as tight as without braces. I prefer the braces because as I said, I added a diagonal on one side and it makes the top much less whippy, side to side.
I made mine from aluminum tubing salvaged from, I think it was, mop handles, and simply purchased the plastic ends. I find that there is no need for adjustable braces sold at 40 plus dollars.
I am so tight that I even made my attaching knobs from 1/4 inch stainless bolts with the heads cut off and bent 90 degrees. I carry a couple of extra in the boat. That way if I should drop one overboard while raising the top---no big whoop. Look closely in the first photo, just behind my shoulder and you will see the bent bolt holding the plastic fitting together.