Looking to install a hard bimini top on an H320

[Benny]

The two piece bimini which attaches to the arch is shot. I'm having the front part redone in canvas but would like to install a hard top in the rear which eventually will hold a solar panel. Does anyone know of a vendor who may have molds to do this in fiberglass? I was thinking of utilizing a sheet of metal setting it with screws to the arch and brackets to the rear pole. I'm aware metal will heat up specially in our Florida sun but I figure it can be painted to reflect the sun and perhaps insulated underneath. If anyone has done this or perhaps has a better idea I'm open to comments and suggestions.

 

[Chuck]

Don't laugh

YOu could have a fiberglass shop custom build to your specs or, see link. Truck bed fiberglass toneau for $500.00 could be cut in half and adapted. The other half could be sold for a similar boat, or adapted for a hard top for a dodger.

 

[Steve Dion]

Wave Stopper makes them, but........

Benny:Wave Stopper makes the molded dodger tops, but it is very expensive. The price difference for my Hunter Vision 36 was a 50% increase over a totally soft dodger. This would have been about $1700-1800 additional.You should be able to have some marine plywood bent (like they made water ski's in the old days) to the contour that you need. Then you can fiberglass & gel coat it.

 

[Benny]

Chuck I'm not laughing

I considered your idea but I need more curvature than what that bed cover could provide. I would not want to end with a $500 pile of ruble. Thanks. I do like Steve's idea about marine plywood; it would be cooler than metal, it can be bent and will retain shape and more important is something I could do myself. Thanks Steve.