T-Top Skins

[martin]

Originally Posted by pair of jacks

My boat still has the original fabric t-top cover from when bought new in 2001. Lots of small holes starting to develop. Could probably get another season out of it but I'm considering converting to a thin, lighweight hardtop "skin". Does anyone have any experience with these or suggestions for who makes them? I'm leery about going to a standard fiberglass top because of weight considerations on a 21' boat. Thanks

Hi yes it can be done. I did one for my capehorn21.. I just layed up three layers of 1708 on a layup table of melamine. And pulled the skin off. Then used stainless storm panel screws they are 1/4 20 thread.with a large flat head Started in the middle or the crown and drilled one hole in center of pipe then tapped then screwed it down . Then did back..and then corner worked it all the way around spaced about 10 " apart.. Once pulled the top doown.. Cut a 3" block of wood an trace a 3" boarder around top. For your over hang.. You can make any size you want.. Just remember. To over size your lay up glass .. Mine overhung 3" on the side and front.. Hope this helped

[martin]

Originally Posted by pair of jacks

So, from your description, I'm seeing a thin laminate in lieu of canvas. I've never seen what you're describing, but the idea is intriguing.

You could take the canvas off your T-top and use it as a pattern to lay up a couple layers of 1808 with gelcoat on the top side and then drill holes in the same locations as the canvas, add grommets just like the canvas, and install it with nylon line, just like the canvas. It should be durable as long as there aren't any hard points that it would be stretched over, and it would be really simple to make. Is that what you're thinking?
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No, actually I was thinking of a very thin hard top which would be adhered to the tower permanently not using the nylon line & grommets. I realize this would have to be custom made and I've seen some boats with these tops- just looking for someone in NJ area to consult with and get an estimate- don't know who does this kind of thing.

I can make you one ..it is really simple

[kneedeep]

this is what I did to mine. layed up with gelcoat ,mat/1708 only. i may go later and add 1/2'' nidacore to it. so far so good.http://s728.photobucket.com/user/88b...o%20hard%20top