H27 -Best Bimini Solution

[Mike Brown]

I am new to the forum, so I did search the archives first, but did not find quite the answer I need.
I am installing a bimini top on my 1981 Hunter 27, and will have to have the split backstay go through the bimini. I am debating the best way to do that. Option 1 is to simply put 6 or 8" slits in the bimini at the points where the backstay will go through (running port to starboard in direction). I will have to undo each side of the backstay and feed it through. This makes taking it off a PITA, but is simple. Option 2 is to put long V- shaped cuts from the back of the bimini, running fore to aft, to accomodate the backstay. This would require dis-assembling the tubing to put the top on and off. The third option is to cut the top all the way through, port to starboard, and adding zippers outside of the backstay to hold the top together, and velcro between the two split backstays. This would allow for the addition of a backstay adjustment in the future, and wuould be relatively easy to take the top off the boat, but would be most expensive and complicated. Also very open to other ideas. Thoughts?

 

[Dennis Kitchen]

I like # 3!
Dennis

 

[Joe]

You're life would be much simpler without a split backstay system. I'd go with a single backstay....you can use the same rigging....maybe add a wire cascade to double the purchase. Connect the new lower wire to the eye on the old upper with a clevis pin, or down close to the adjusting tackle for more convenience. Only one connection.... you can support the mast with the main halyard to boom end and use mainsheet or tension. Now all you need is one hole in the canvas because the single wire doesn't move side to side when adjusted.
Fold the bimini up against the backstay when not in use.

If you're worried about the transom connection.... a horizontal tang to spread load of single backstay chainplate is an inexpensive option.

It seems like a lot... but way easier than sewing multiple zippers into polyester canvas.

 

[heritage]

The zippers and a small circular cutout have worked well. I especially like the vinyl insert for viewing the mainsail.

 

[GorillaToast]

Here was my solution:

 

[dakno]

I had one made at North Sails in New Orleans. It has the zippers for the backstays running from the stay cutout to the rear. It works great and is a snap to remove/reinstall. They have the pattern for this boat. Mine is different than Heritage as the bimini bows mount on the toe rail instead of cockpit coaming. This gives you a good deal more shade and makes boarding easier . Call Benz at North Sails

 

[SailormanDan]

Sorry I don't have any photos showing the details, but when I sewed my new bimini a couple of years ago I put in the short zippers that come in from the sides. It was that way on the vinyl bimini that I replaced and also what Sailrite showed in their how-to video. The shorter zippers reduce the chance for leaking. I don't find it a hassle to get the bimini on and off.
An adjustable backstay isn't near the top of my list and I know I hadn't even thought about at the time, but if you think you might do it soon, then the other zipper option you described sounds like the way to go. Good luck with it.

 

[Ron20324]

...I put in the short zippers that come in from the sides. ....

I see that way sometimes , but I cringe to think of the fore and aft pull on the zipper by the tension on the bows to keep the bimini taut. But if it works, okay.

 

[SailormanDan]

I was following the instructions and methods that other people have used before with success, so I didn't really even think about the tension. The bimini is not one solid piece of material, it's several curved sections sewn together to accommodate the curve of the bows. Any stress is on the seams, not sure I'm capable of tensioning it so much by hand with the straps that I pull the seams apart.
But your mileage may vary.

 

[Mike Brown]

Thanks for the replies. Some good thoughts here.

 

[SailormanDan]

Good luck with whatever you do, hope it turns out the way you want it to.