DIY - How to Install a Bimini Top

If your boat or pontoon craft has a bimini top you'll appreciate the shade it provides while you and your family are out on the water. It also folds back to allow catching some rays or when trailering or storing your boat. Over time, however, the fabric will degrade causing the need to replace your Bimini top. When this happens, know that Wholesale Marine has a wide selection of Bimini Tops for many pleasure craft and pontoon boats. Installing a new Bimini top is a job you can do yourself. While instructions will differ by manufacturer, we've prepared an overview for the DIYer to make the task easier:

Step by Step Bimini Top Installation

In addition to your Bimini Top, have the following on hand:

• Eye straps
• Waterproof caulk
• T-Square
• Tape measure
• Chalk line
• Power drill and bits including countersink bit
• Manual screwdriver set
• Box-wrench set

This is a two-person task so ask a friend to assist.

Position the Top

• Fully extend the top and have your assistant hold it in place. This is so you can determine where the deck hinges will be installed. If replacing your top, these should already be in place, in which case reuse the holes and position. IMPORTANT: Measure to ensure that the deck hinges are exactly opposite each other and parallel to prevent binding when top is folded down.

Mount the New Deck Hinges

• Mark mounting holes and ensure that the underside does not have any wires or hoses in the way.
• Drill holes and chamfer with a countersink to prevent gelcoat cracking.
• Bed the surface with a marine sealant to ensure holes are waterproof.

Install the Top and Eye Straps

• Bolt main bow bases to deck hinges to erect the top. Extend the fore and aft web straps to align with web straps to form an M-shape on each side.
• Mount eye-straps horizontally: Mark, drill, embed and mount fore and aft eye straps with self-tapping screws.
• Attach snap-hooks to eye straps and adjust buckles evenly.
• We recommend purchasing a zippered boot for storage when not in use.
• We also recommend purchasing Bimini support stays. These provide additional stability for your top when underway and can tilt the top at a 45-degree angle when sun is preferred over shade.

Adjusting the Fit

• If the top doesn't appear centered on the frame, pull the top to the side to center it.
• If the fabric is sagging in the front or rear, you may need to adjust the bows or straps slightly.

Wholesale Marine carries a wide assortment of Bimini Tops in numerous sizes and colors from top brands such as Gen3 Marine, Westland and Taylor Made. Bimini packages from these two brands come complete with the fabric, frame, and matching storage boot.

You might have questions about which top is best for your boat or need assistance with your Bimini top installation project. Just call us (877) 388-2628. Were here Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM EST and look forward to speaking with you!