Hey all -

This is not exactly new but I have never done a write up. Figured it would be good to post it up. This is construction of a DIY floating bimini for older boats. My factory bimini connects to the windshield and is too wide for the tower. Lets see how we solve this problem.

I actually have several tops, the factory windshield-snapped bimini, and a really neat factory camper top (pics in my Pride&joy thread).

But more desirable is the more modern floating bimini in my more recent pics. This is actually a factory bimini from a mid-90s Malibu. I got it for free from a buddy. Most mid-90s boats had these biminis, but when people put aftermarket towers on the boat, their biminis no longer fit. The bimini is wider than the front tower legs, and will not open.

The trick is to take the bimini apart, then cut the main bars in half with a hacksaw. Remove a portion of the main bars, like about a foot. Reassemble the main bars, using something to support where you cut (pvc, or other pipe tubing, screws, etc).

There are tons of older biminis for sale cheap on ski-it-again.com.

Here is a GREAT thread on the topic.
http://www.mastercraft.com/teamtalk/...ad.php?t=25912

Here are the tower clamps I used. Had to shorten the back legs a bit to get this to work.
http://www.diywake.com/shop/shopexd.asp?id=567

Here is a link to other methods of building biminis:
http://web.archive.org/web/200406050...wer/tower.html

I would love a 'new' bimini, but can in no way justify the cost. If I had to, I would get the Monster Tower cargo bimini for $600.