bimini top straps

[begbie]

All -

Question for you.

Took my new Tahoe out last weekend for the first time. Everything was great, except, when I put the bimini top up and was cruising at a relatively low speed (20-30 mph), the hooks that hold the front straps to the boat bent and came completely loose, sending the top flying back. I can bend them back into place, and they work fine while sitting, but not when moving at any speed.

Any ideas?

-B

 

[Ret USN CPO]

Re: bimini top straps

Hmmmm. Sounds like you may have some defective hooks. I can cruise at top speed with my bimini up and have no issues. I would take it back to the dealer and tell them about the problem. My hooks are stainless steel.

 

[pkdayga]

Re: bimini top straps

Won't help your bent hook issue, but make sure you get underneath the quick release brackets and verify that the bolts are tight. I had one pop out at speed last year and put a nice chip right down to the strings under the fiberglass.

 

[BamaAlum97]

Re: bimini top straps

I frequently cruise at speed with my top up...have never had any problems with it. Are you still under warranty?

 

[Scupper'd]

Re: bimini top straps

The original equipment Tahoe straps from Dowco should have cast stainless hooks, these are much stronger than the wire hooks common on the aftermarket bimini tops. The Dowco item number for the complete strap is 18515-00, you can purchase these from your Tahoe dealer. If you have a top with plastic fittings, you may end up with something else failing as well. The OE Tahoe tops usually have cast stainless fittings and heavy duty tubing. Good Luck!

 

[froolap]

Re: bimini top straps

I would suspect that you don't have the bimmi mounted level for when you get on plane, and instead of the bimmi acting like a wing when you get on plane it's acting like a parachoot and putting excessive strain on the hooks. Just my 2 cents worth.

 

[rdhawk1950]

Re: bimini top straps

Before pointing fingers iI think I would read the disclaimer on the Bimini.