44DB Bridge Arch

[bmac]

Ok, so how do you other 44DB owners get access to clean and wax the top of your arch, radar and other equipment up there? :huh:

 

[Converse48]

Ok, so how do you other 44DB owners get access to clean and wax the top of your arch, radar and other equipment up there? :huh:

If you're really serious, you can take off the soft top and then the access is easy. But to remove the soft top, first you need to remove all the clear panels... that's a pretty serious commitment though.

 

[bmac]

Well all the Strataglass is off right now so that is done, but taking off the soft top appears to be quite a bit of work. Have you done that yet? Does it have to be untied around the whole aluminum frame? The boat detailer is almost done and this is the last big area and he's questioning what to do.

If you're really serious, you can take off the soft top and then the access is easy. But to remove the soft top, first you need to remove all the clear panels... that's a pretty serious commitment though.

 

[Converse48]

If the strata is already off, it's really not that big a deal. Plus you can wash and treat the sof top while it's off. And yes, you do need to unthread that line around the whole frame, but it doesn't take that long. I did it twice a few weekends ago.

Don't ask why I had to do it twice.:smt021

 

[osd9]

Why did you have to do it twice....practicing?....:grin:

 

[Converse48]

Why did you have to do it twice....practicing?....:grin:

I could show you in person... the soft top is pretty complex with two side by side zippers, one that holds the strataglass panels and another one that holds the black mesh liner that hides the stainless frame from view. I did it the first time... and then I could not for the life of me get the very last zipper started on the under-side liner. :smt021

So I undid the top just to get that zipper started and then I put the top back on again. At least I've developed some expertise on tying that 50' string around the stainless frame to make the top drum tight.

Oh and by the way, one of the under panels mysteriously disappeared on me. I'm assuming it blew overboard. I paid the stupid tax on that one. Thank God for Gioia Sails.

 

[bmac]

So any tips on how to take the soft top off or better yet, to put it back on? Thanks.:thumbsup:

 

[bmac]

Oh yeah, since only the front OR the back has to come off to get at the arch and equipment which is easier?

 

[Converse48]

Oh yeah, since only the front OR the back has to come off to get at the arch and equipment which is easier?

I've only done the front. I'm going to guess it's easier becuase it is smaller. There are no real tricks other than to be sure your pulling the line nice and tight as you go when you are threading it back on.

 

[bmac]

Ok, thanks Fest. I'm reluctant to start this but it's now or not this year and while the detailer is still on board I want to get this done. Now if it would only stop raining so I can get on with this.....thanks again for the reply.