Gallf1
Well-Known Member
- Sep 26, 2018
- 316
- Boat Info
- 2000 Searay 380
- Engines
- Mercruiser 454 MAG MPI 7.4L
Custom Forward Hardtop
Whaly 270 Hard Dinghy, 4hp Honda
Bahamas Veteran
Was time to replace canvas and after looking at the cost and longevity (and since I have experience with fiberglass) decided to build a custom mold and hardtops for my 380.
The hardtop extends about 48" forward from the radar arch and has the appropriate curves and changes in shape to accommodate the fit. I will be using the same mold to pull off another one to modify for a 3/4 rear top. I will be making some custom SS or Aluminum support legs once I fit it.
Top will attach to radar arch with male to female fiberglass tabs set in 5200.
Top is made from the appropriate gelcoat, CSM and 1708 BiAx followed by 1/2" Balsa and then CSM and 1708 Biax. There will be no penetrations in the top so I am not worried about Balsa Core issues.
The underside of the hardtop has built in "shelves" to screw in the track for the windows/curtains.
The mold is not a "Class A" mold, meaning that some final fairing and tweaking is required but since I will be painting it anyways its not an issue.
If anyone is interested, I may be willing to sell the mold for the cost of the material to make the mold......
Today is pull the part out of the mold day!
The hardtop extends about 48" forward from the radar arch and has the appropriate curves and changes in shape to accommodate the fit. I will be using the same mold to pull off another one to modify for a 3/4 rear top. I will be making some custom SS or Aluminum support legs once I fit it.
Top will attach to radar arch with male to female fiberglass tabs set in 5200.
Top is made from the appropriate gelcoat, CSM and 1708 BiAx followed by 1/2" Balsa and then CSM and 1708 Biax. There will be no penetrations in the top so I am not worried about Balsa Core issues.
The underside of the hardtop has built in "shelves" to screw in the track for the windows/curtains.
The mold is not a "Class A" mold, meaning that some final fairing and tweaking is required but since I will be painting it anyways its not an issue.
If anyone is interested, I may be willing to sell the mold for the cost of the material to make the mold......
Today is pull the part out of the mold day!