bimini support repair

[lfm]

I have a 2004 Four Winns and I've had the rear support break three times. Can anyone suggest someone who could repair it, or recommend a better after market replacement.

Thanks.

[upthesaukee]

Have the supports broken at the same spot (approximately) ?

Stainless steel or aluminum supports?

Are you running the boat with the bimini open, and if so, what speed, and is this when they break?

Is the bimini support bows properly sized for the width of the boat...in other words, can you remove them from the support bases without have to tug the supports or push them in to the support base, where the pin goes through the base support and the end of the support bow?

Maybe talk to Ship Shape or Canvas guys and get some info. When I picked up my new canvas mounted on my boat from Ship Shape, I kiddingly said does the warranty cover me going under the bridge in Alton with the top up. After they stopped laughing, they did say they have a lot of people that want them to repair supports, and they feel that in most cases, it is better to go with a new set of bows.

For that, try the Canvas shops, or West Marine, or Overtons.

Good luck.

[codeman671]

Most of the Bimini frames are generic, universal and made by only a few companies. They are not very expensive to replace.

[lfm]

Thanks for the advice. They have always broken at the same spot. At a rivet hole where the knuckle for the front spar joins the rear. It has always broken when the top is stowed. And it's alumininum, stock with the boat from four wins.

[NoBozo]

Gotta Picture of the break..?? BTW "Pot Metal" can look like Aluminum. MUCH of the CHEAP cast hardware is Chrome Plated Pot Metal. If you can see casting "parting lines" on the piece..it's probably Pot metal. :look: NB

PS: I forgot to mention.. Pot Metal is GARBAGE in ANY application.
PPS: REAL Aluminum dosn't just "Break".

[fatlazyless]

If u want to save some money, and just purchase a few parts and stainless tubing to do-it-yourself, then go see Bev at www.villagecanvas.com in Meredith and you'll walk out an el cheapo boater ....... no fool'n!