Canvas replacement - snaps or track?

[jackson]

On some models (like my 2002 310DA), a rubber track was used to attach the canvas to the windshield frame. Does anyone know if snaps can be placed in that track on the windshield if installing a new canvas, or do you still need to use the track? My canvas isn't bad, but I'm just curious.

 

[Dave S]

Snaps can be installed in the tracks with out any problem. I had looked into this with my 240SD when I was considering camper canvas.

 

[Oh Me!! - 280 DA]

I would try my best to replace them!! Our 240 DA had the "easy up" top and there was nothing easy about it!!! Good luck!

 

[thunderbird1]

The rubber-in-the-track system isn't my favorite design. We struggled with it on our 225. Snaps are a MUCH better solution, particularly if you have one of these cool Ironwood snap tools.

 

[MLauman]

Buddy of mine had his canvas redone on a mid-90s 300DA and had snaps installed on the windshield - no problem. I'd change over to snaps in a heartbeat if my canvas needed replacement.

 

[jrirvine1]

I grew tired of the track system on my 2001 215 and replaced it with a snap system. The male end of the snap can be screwed directly into the groove on the windshield. If using the same canvas, it is necessary to cut off the "T" section that is "intended" to fit into the groove.

 

[chuck1]

Yes can be done and snaps is the only way to go :thumbsup: I can have my full camper up by myself in about 15 Min.

 

[Shining]

Just when I thought I hated my horn the most...you had to remind me of that $^** rubber tracking. My thumbs still hurt from working that rubber into the track! Go Snaps!!
-Mike

 

[MAKC]

if i said i hated that stupid f^%$& sh&*^% rubber piece of s*&^&** track, id still be hiding my true feelings on that design! I'll be changing to snaps before the start of the next season (if i dont upgrade to a 280DA before then)

 

[jrcinnh]

When upgrading from my bowrider, I wasn't even going to look at Searays because I hated the rubber tracks so much. Thankfully they switched.

The new boat has a plastic insert that fits in the track, the snap screws into the insert. You may be able to get these from a dealer. It should be easier that drilling the aluminum frame.

 

[Amberjack01]

Does anybody have any experience with this new "plastic" strip that fits into the windshield tract in place of those stupid rubber channels? Just wondering if anyones experience would favor snaps into the new plastic track versus drilling into the windshield frame?

 

[guye926]

replacing track w/snaps

Looking to do the same on a 2000 270DA, have been advised agains screwing into the aluminum. Anyone with experience in screwing into the track slot or screwing into a "plastic filler piece" would be apprecisted. Thanks!

guye926@aol.com

 

[LMBoat]

Well, I'll speak for the other side. I like the rubber channel connection. It keeps out water better and holds the canvas shape better. They don't rust or corrode. If you have having trouble, try some silicone spray. It works wonders. I admit, it took some getting used to, but once I spray the silcone on it <and I do this about once a year> it has been great.

 

[island trek1]

I also like the rubber channel. I have them on the glass at the windshield and bimini area. I have snaps aft on the camper top at the sides and transom areas and I am always cleaning water stains that drip from the snaps after it rains.

 

[RonF]

Seems to me that the rubber channel goes in easily enough. Maybe it's the technique. I have to hold it so that the top of the rubber always fits into the channel first, then push it up as far as it will go, and finally press on the outside so the bottom of the channel follows in. It does not work the other way around.

 

[JeffM]

I found the curtains go in best if I only zip the top and side zippers a couple of inches, then fit the rubber gasket into the channel. Once in, I then finish zipping the zippers. Works great.

The previous owner put one snap at each end of each curtain, which does help keep the rubber gasket in place and stops it from coming back out once installed. Make sure the snaps are placed correctly, though -- on one of my curtains they are too close together and if I snap bothh, they actually force the gasket out of the channel.

Jeff

 

[Shining]

Re: replacing track w/snaps

Looking to do the same on a 2000 270DA, have been advised agains screwing into the aluminum. Anyone with experience in screwing into the track slot or screwing into a "plastic filler piece" would be apprecisted. Thanks!

guye926@aol.com

Here you go. Here's the "rubber tracking to snaps" mod I just had done.
-Mike