Bimini Top for a 23.5 Pros and Cons

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Jonathan Costello

I deciding whether or not to buy a bimini for my 1994 23.5. I've checked the archives and didn't find much on the topic. Obviously it would block the sun on those sunny days. The chandlery sells a 5 foot model for 23.5's without sternrail seats. How much does it impair your ability to see the windex? the telltales? Is it difficult to go forward to tend to the head sail? Would a 4 foot model allow your guests to stay out of the sun but still allow the helmsman to see the sail, windex, telltales etc? Any input would be greatly appreciated. Jonathan Costello Heeling Powers
 
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Mike B.

More pros than cons

You can't see the windex unless you put a window in it (add a flap and velcro to close it up). You shouldn't be impeded going forward or aft but make sure bows and straps don't impede stepping on or off the dock. You need to remove it for trailering. The sun and rain protection make it worthwhile, in my opinion. Go as large as you can, unless you're concerned about windage or looks.
 
Jan 11, 2004
7
- - Colorado Springs
Love My Bimini (Go for it)

I bought one for my 23.5 from the Chandlery this site. Love it! Very well made and came with a cover. Easy to put on. It lays very nice on the transom when not in use. As far as the windex & telltales, I just look around the Bimini. Not a problem getting to the Headsail. I don't have the Sternrail seats. Recommend you go with the one this Chandlery has for your year. Fair Winds Frank
 
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Rick Webb

I Ordered One A Couple of Weeks Ago

I will be able to tell you more in a couple more weeks when it gets here and I install it. If the one with the stern rail seats cannot be used without the seats I would get the seats first. They are not cheap but are worth every dime my only regret was not getting them earlier.
 
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Jonathan Costello

Frank

When you installed it did you just screw into the fiberglass or did you drill all the way through to the underside and use fender washers and machine screws with nuts? Thanks
 
Jan 11, 2004
7
- - Colorado Springs
Jonathan

Drilled a small hole right into the fiberglass. Used the screws that came with it and some 5200 around it. I laid the Bimini closed on the transom so when I open it, it just touches the mast crutch as it opens. I usually sail with the crutch up. The boom swings with no problem. If you would like correct measurements drop me a line as I can either send you and e-mail or photo. It really does make life easier. You will get two separate poles that go to the stern for support while the Bimini is up. I never put them on. I just use bungee cords and connect them to the cleats. Makes it really easy to take up/down. "Fair Winds" Frank
 
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Crazy Dave Condon

go thru the chandlrey

Make sure the bimini is one made by Ameriseam and go thru the chandlrey. Do advise year, model and it has no stern rail seats as I sold the boat originally without them. Phill Herring how about emailing this fellow. Good to see ya in the post my friend and if you have any specific questions, give me a ring a ding a ling. Again, do not post my whereabouts except that I am in la la land or outer space.
 
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