I'd like to understand why Ultima bilge pump should be level

thataway · Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 2:05 pm Post subject:

A good canvas shop can utilize the Bimini you have for the and rear curtains for the Camper back. I have had this done and it came out very nicely.

The full cover is not all that expensive from Angolia Canvas, Indiana.

We have not used the slant back tonneau much, unless we didn't have a full boat cover. Although some have used it when trailering, we have not.

Robert H. Wilkinson · Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 6:40 pm Post subject:

Hi Sunbeam, Bob is right - most Stingrays come with what the dealer called a convertible top. It can be used as either a bimini(high/low) or it has 4 pieces(front, back, 2 sides) which are zippered in to make a full camper top.

Just an option to concider.

Regards, Rob

Sunbeam · Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 6:48 pm Post subject:

Thanks for your thoughts on the canvas. As I travel I'm keeping my eye/ear out for a good canvas shop (I'm particular), and when I find one....

One thing on my bimini: Although to my eye the canvaswork and detail/features look well thought out and well sewn, the framework is aluminum and the forks that are attached to the boat are plastic. So I'm not sure how much more weight/stress I can put on it (i.e. the windage and weight of a camperback/sides). That said, I imagine it's possible to make a stainless frame to match the aluminum one (?), and I have taken note of those nice, quick-release stainless fittings the good canvas shops have put on your gunwales.

First I have to finish getting the core sealed up (doing the motorwell drain today and tomorrow - gotta love those brass tubes...). Oh, and the bilge pump mounted Very Happy

Thanks again,
Sunbeam Hot

:

thataway · Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 7:13 pm Post subject:

Yes, a good shop can also make a SS frame, but that will cost fair amount. You can replace the plastic fittings with SS, but what size is the aluminum tubing? I prefer 1", but many are 7/8 or even 3/4.

If it is an aluminum frame with plastic fittings, it may be from a catalogue, rather than a canvas maker.

Sunbeam · Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 7:26 pm Post subject:

I believe it is from a canvas shop - I say that because their label is sewn in, and it's a shop local to the original C-Dory dealer. They also made inside window coverings, screens for the opening front window and v-berth hatch, and a zippered/screened panel for the cabin door. And I'm very happy to have them.

On the bimini.... yeah...I'm probably just going to use it as-is for now, as it's like new and certainly functional (and there are plenty of other boat goodies clamoring for my wallet). I may just make one side panel that I can move around from side to side as needed. My guess is that between the frame and etc. that if I ever want a camper back it might be better just to start from scratch, but I'd certainly show what I have to any canvas maker before starting anything.

Probably first on the canvas list is a cover and/or tonneau for traveling/storage. Not sure if I'm going to order one from Angola or go another way (I did find some informative threads here, as usual).

Robert H. Wilkinson · Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 7:30 pm Post subject:

Sunbeam, "being particular" when looking for a canvass shop is "being prudent" in my book. If your spending 3 grand(or whatever) on a camper top - a few hundred bucks more or less may not be a bargain. Over the life of a camper top, quality materials and workmanship will make your life on the water a lot more pleasant.

Don't ask me how I know these things. Rolling Eyes

Regards, Rob

Sunbeam · Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 7:56 pm Post subject:

Thanks for that, Rob Thumbs Up

It helps to balance out the inevitable "But gee, you're so picky!" Very Happy

Sunbeam