Regardless of the boating season, it's important to take into account the effects of the sun's ultraviolet rays. Sunscreen is useful in preventing overexposure, along with shade from a bimini top. While many new boats come with bimini tops, some older models may not, or it may be time for a replacement. This article features the installation of a bimini top on a 19-foot runabout. It's a relatively simple project, but it does take two people. For this project, we selected a Taylor Made bimini top (www.taylormadeproducts.com) supplied by West Marine (www.westmarine.com). 

Step 1 

Most biminis have to be assembled out of the box, and the frame usually comes in several different sections. To begin with, you'll need a flathead screwdriver. The top used in this demonstration comes in three different pieces called the A, B and C bows, along with three center bows. There are two sets of the A/B/C bow assemblies for both sides of the bimini. First, attach the A bow to the C bow (one set for each side). They're connected using the black plastic "jaw slides," which are included in the package. Next, attach the B bow to each of the A/C assemblies, also using the jaw slides provided. Lastly, join the three center bows to both of the A/B/C assemblies. The best way to do this is to lay everything out on the ground. No tools are required for this part because everything you have assembled thus far will attach together with snap buttons that are provided. Attach the center bows to only one of the A/B/C assemblies at this point - the other side will be done after the fabric is fed onto the frame as outlined in the next step.

Step 2 

Unpack the canvas top and lay it out, upside down on a clean surface. The underside label, which signifies the trailing edge (back of the top), should be facing up.  Taking the left-hand bow assembly, slide one of the center bows through the sleeve on the trailing edge of the fabric. As you slide it through the sleeve and reach the first cutout, stop. Install a tie-down strap here. Slide the loop end of the tie-down strap over the end of the bow, and then continue feeding the bow into the sleeve. When the end of the bow reaches the next cutout, stop again. Install a bow strap here. Slide the non-adjustable end of the strap over the bow with the adjustable buckle facing away from the fabric. Repeat this process and install the other bow strap. Continue feeding the fabric onto the frame until you reach the last cutout, and then install the other tie-down strap. Slide the top on the rest of the way until the center bow comes out the other side of the top. Repeat this entire process for the front side of the top.

Step 3 

Determine the optimal location for the top. Install the mounting hinges (choose vertical or horizontal) in the appropriate position on both sides of the boat. Secure these to the boat using the four 3/4-inch, self-tapping Phillips head screws provided. Be sure the deck mounts are directly in line with one another across the boat. Position the rear of the top, and attach the eye end on the A bows to the deck mounts, using the screws in the deck mounts. Secure, but don't over-tighten. Have another person hold the top in the open position, then locate the places to attach the four eye straps to the tie-down straps. Place them as far out as practical to ensure the top spreads tightly. There should be enough adjustment in the straps to loosen and tighten. Use the eye straps to locate the position for 1/8-inch pilot holes, then drill them in. Screw the eye straps into the boat using the eight 5/8-inch Phillips head screws. Attach the tie-down dogsnap to the eye straps on the gunwales. Tighten the adjustment buckle so the top doesn't sag.

Step 4 

Step back and look at the top after adjusting the tie-down straps and bow straps. If the top doesn't appear to be centered on the frame, pull the top to the side and center it both in the front and rear. If your top appears to sag in the front or rear, it may be necessary to readjust the bows or straps slightly. Applying more tension to the tie-down straps usually improves the fit. To accomplish this, have your helper pull down slightly on the corners of the top (at the tie-down locations) while you tighten up the buckles on the strap. Do this on all four corners of the top. After retightening the straps, if your top still needs more adjustment, you may need to reposition the jaw slide for the C bow. Loosen the set screw on the back side of the jaw slide and move it upward on the  A bow one or two inches, and then retighten the set screw on the jaw slide. Repeat this step for the C bow on the other side of the top. Once the bows have been repositioned, retighten the two bow straps from underneath.