280 sundancer canvas install

Everybody runs into issues :0) Bloody canvass shrinks when it is not installed. The tool is good! Sometimes it helps to get the canvass wet when attempting to stretch it back onto the boat. My best advice? Get it done when you are not in a hurry. Also, we put the little bungee connectors, instead of the snaps, where we could, and that helps a lot. (https://www.amazon.com/Stayput-Bungee-Fasteners-Surface-Attachment/dp/B00ERFZ37E)

 

Be Patient and install when the temperature is moderate rather than a cold day. I would advise laying all the pieces out in the sun if you have the opportunity prior to install, it will make things easier for you. After that, start at the top and I found that using a piece of white chalk to mark snap locations while applying pressure was the easiest way. For the bimini and sunshade, I installed the canvas on the frame and worked it into the zipper first, then started at the center snap on the arch and worked out from there. The GL snap tool works, but I will tell you that your hands will be BEAT after 20 or so snaps, so be prepared for this to take a couple afternoons. The tool would be better if it had longer handles for additional leverage. Other than that, bring a few beers, some good music, and a set of extra hands and work your way from the top down. It's just a big expensive fabric puzzle

 

It's not too bad. Take your time and make sure things line up before committing the snaps. Mark the snap points with a x-mark targets using a soap stone pencil.

-Kevin

 

Oh and I have both the GLBT tool and the press-n-snap tool. The PNS tool is much better but sometimes I still use the manual die tool and hammer it.

The quick fit snap kit is also helpful for aligning the panels to the snaps already on the boat.

-Kevin