bimini top question ?

[posthinkn]

I own a 1987 Dancer 250. I needed a bimini top as I only had the one that attaches to the windshild, So I happen to be on craigs list and see an add for a bimini top and camper green in color( just what I needed ) for a 250 dancer. so I go see it and the guy says it was off his fathers boat, said he new nothing about how it goes, and now was not sure of the year of the boat. Here comes the problem (Clearly my fault) While the bimini looked in pretty good condition and I got a great price 200 dollars with all stainless framing.... It did not fit my boat it was about 4 inches to wide, 2 inches past each side of the windshield. Clearly this was not from a 250 87 sundancer, more like a 268 dancer. In any case my question is,:smt089 can the main frame be cut and put into some typ of sleeve so that it can be made to fit my windshield. I hate to loose the whole 200.00 I guess I can measure it and try to sell it, but would rather find a way to use it as they are so expensive in stainless. Are there other options, would a pro be able to bend or curve them in to fit.... Next time I will measure before I buy, I should have known better as soon as he said it was off his fathers boat (since Passed away) Any Help would be appriciated......:smt001

 

[Rum Runner]

That sounds like a bummer. I hate to lose money like that...and I have. If it's fairly close I think you could get the frame to fit with some cutting. I think the big problem will be the canvas. If it was me I would contact the local canvas guy at one of the marina's in your area. He, or she, may be able to cut it down and make it work. But...and here it comes....money expense. Good luck. R

 

[1956olds]

you can have the bows. shortened or lengthened stainless has to be tig welded to lengthen by putting a sleeve inside it .A good canvas guy will re sew it to fit ,you may have to add some snaps to match whats on your boat though.also your better to have loose sides so you dont have to fight zippers and snaps when in a hurry to get it put up .

 

[Lazy Daze]

Before you do any cutting, try to make it fit the way it is. If you're saying that you laid the bimini up there and the pole ends were "naturally" 2" wider on each side, I think you'll be fine the way it is. It's not unusual for a bimini top to have to be "flexed" into position.

Attach one side, then just gently push the free legs in until they slide into the mount. You may not be able to do this with the bimini laying flat - you might need someone to help hold it vertical or at a certain angle to get the pole ends into the mounts.

 

[posthinkn]

Thanks for the various, ideas for this bimini top. Will wait for my son to help me see if we can put it on as is, just want to use the bimini top not the camper, needs no snaps, But I think the 4 inches will be t much to fit but I will try, and if not I will cut it , and see If I can have it welded... less the four inches...... Thanks again