Bimini install measurements?

[matt167]

How do I measure to install the Bimini. Do I just put it where I want, measure one side and then match the other? I bought a cheap Bimini to make my wife happy and not sun burn on our trip down the canal this weekend . The instructions are useless. I assembled it watching a YouTube video. It’s ready to mount. I have a 14’ closed bow runabout

 

[briangcc]

You have a main hoop that's pipe, a set of rear supports that are also pipe, then straps in the front to get everything nice and taunt correct?

If so, I'd set it up so that the straps attach to hoops on the bow and not the windshield. I have this thing about drilling into a windshield frame...it doesn't end well for me. YMMV.

So I'd stretch it out, mark, drill, attach and go. Might want to look under the cap to see if you want to reinforce it a bit - I've done that with cleats before on other boats.

 

[airshot]

I just instalked one on my 16' Sylvan. It will never be in that exact perfect position because the boat moves and so does the sun!! Most are way to tall, so when you sit down, the sun comes in under the side and the top becomes useless. One thing you can do to help is add sliding rails on each side. They come in a variety of lengths, I used 24" long so the top can be moved forward and rearward 12" in each direction. The other thing I do is to get as low a top as I can. I am only 5'6" sobwhen I stand up, my top is right on my head, but, I have more shade when sitting down. With the rails, your position is not as critical because you can slide it back and forth to help get the shade you want. This also allows you to slide the top to the stern to stow it out of the way. Hope this helps, I have installed numerous bimini tops, would never install one without the sliding rails, way to many advantages of using them.

 

[dwco5051]

Last one I installed I temporary installed fittings on a couple of scrap 1x3's that I clamped on the gunnels. Spent some time sliding them back and forth and changing the spacing of the fittings till I was happy with it.

 

[matt167]

This is a small 3 bow. And my windshield is acrylic so there’s no attaching to that

 

[briangcc]

Got a pic of the bimini stretched out? Might get a better response that way so we can see what you're working with.

 

[airshot]

Last one I installed I temporary installed fittings on a couple of scrap 1x3's that I clamped on the gunnels. Spent some time sliding them back and forth and changing the spacing of the fittings till I was happy with it.

I was lucky as I have two grandkids over 20 yrs of age to act as my holdowns while moving it around ! Help is always a good thing...

 

[airshot]

This is a small 3 bow. And my windshield is acrylic so there’s no attaching to that

6' three bow is what I put on my 16' Sylvan...I would never attach a strap to any windshield !! Not hard to find a small space for the U strap to attach the strap to. And the straps are adjustable to alter there length easily. Once the top is in the position you want, then figure where the straps/ holdowns will be located. If you have any interest in having the ability to move the top back and forth to create more/ less shade, please consider adding the rails to make the top even more versatile!!

 

[matt167]

. This is the exact top I have except it’s a different brand. I just don’t follow his instructions on mounting

 

[airshot]

Review the video again, pretty simple to follow. Poles should be marked, assemble then sit on the gunwales and decide where you want it. Rule of thumb is a three bow is a 6' long top and the hinge point is usually in the center ( 3' ). Depending on where you want the top to rest when not in use will determine where the center is mounted. If the center is not the exact location where you want the center hinge mount then you need sliding rails. They are mounted on the gunwale and depending on the length of your rails, the center hinge can slide forward and backward to get the position you want the top. The rails stay put, and the mount hinge for the top slides in the rail then clamps down to hold it in position. If you top came with rigid support poles, they normally go to the rear of the top. Lots of additional mounting videos out there. What don't you understand, glad to help out if I can.

 

[matt167]

I mounted it probably wrong but it works. The rear supports don’t allow the geometry for it to fold. I installed it entirely with it in the up position. It works but I should probably fold it and re mount the rear support brackets so it will fold But I will never run with it down or trailer it attached. I like it though. I got it to where the front is just past the windshield and if it is folded it doesn’t come anywhere near the motor

 

[airshot]

Might be able to point you in the right direction with some pics.. Once set up correctly they are quick and easy to put up and down. I raise and lower mine by myself, takes about three minutes to put up or take down. Takes longer to zip the boot on or off...

 

[matt167]

I figured it out. I had it right so all is well

 

[airshot]

Good to hear !! I know I would not be without one on my boat!! To many days in the sun when I was young and dumb, paying for it in my older age with skin issues.