2002 Hunter 386 Bimini

[Gary Ryan]

Our Hunter 386 has 2 Bimini covers. One that covers the helm attaches at the backside of the arch, then another that attaches to the front section of the arch. We were able to setup the back bimini canvas. Our front bimini is missing the poles. We purchased the boat used, so it is what it is. Looks like there were 4 poles to support it. Does anyone know the dimensions or can forward a picture of what it looks like with this bimini attached? Thanks,

 

[sail sfbay]

There are no poles for the bimini transition canvas. It attaches to the dodger with a zipper and to the arch via a channel.

 

[Paul356]

On my 2002 356, there is one bow that angles out to the front from the bottom of the arch. This takes the front of the front bimini piece, regardless of dodger. The rear of the front piece slides into a track on the arch.

 

[sail sfbay]

There are many ways to fasten the transition bimini, On my 2004 Hunter 386 it was fastened to the arch through a sleeve fastened to the arch and ties onto the dodger frame. On my Hunter 46 the transition bimini is fastened to the ach by snaps and zipper on the dodger as shown in the photo. No extra support legs were used on both boats. If you have a problem fitting it up suggest contacting a canvas guy who specializes in this work since they have seen all types of installations.

 

[sail sfbay]

Gary, If you can provide photos of your transition bmini layed on the ground and fasteners on the dodger aft frame and arch then we can advise on how to connect the bimini. If you do not have a dodger frame then you will need to install a frame over the companionway or brace arms like the one shown on this Hunter 386.

 

[Gary Ryan]

We don't have a dodger. I'm heading to the boat today to do some more work. I'll take some snap shots. Thanks for the help everyone!

 

[Gary Ryan]

Here are some shots I took tonight of our forward Bimini. Worst case, I guess I could get shape it out using some pvc pipe, then find a metal fab place to replicate. Thoughts?

 

[sail sfbay]

Looks like you have snaps on the arch to attach the transition bimini. If you have frame installed in the transition bimini then all you need is a strap on each side that you can connect to the companionway. Again, a canvas guy can assist.

 

[Paul356]

Here's what the setup on my 356 looks like. No dodger connection required for the forward bimini top, even though I have it set up here. The frames on the arch are enough to hold it. This was done locally, not by Hunter.

 

[Gary Ryan]

Hey Paul...I don't see a link or pictures?

 

[Paul356]

took me a minute to figure out the picture. should be on there now.

 

[Paul356]

So, a bow that goes out at c. 45 degrees from the arch, and then a strut at 90 degrees to hold the bow.

 

[Gary Ryan]

Makes sense. Thanks Paul for the pictures and description. I'm waiting to hear back for a Bimini group if they can help. If not, I may get some pvc pipe to form the struts then take them somewhere to get recreated in stainless.