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1988 Formula 311 canvas tops questions...

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Old 09-01-2019 | 09:20 PM
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Default 1988 Formula 311 canvas tops questions...

I hope this is not too complicated. I got two tops with my F311 SR-1. The boat has (what looks like to me) three "mounting points" on each gunnel/side
windscreen (picture below). I have labeled the mounting points from front to back as 1, 2,and 3. There are also two eyelets at the top of the front windscreen.
I would like to know:
Top #1: What is the actual/formal name (bimini, anchor, etc...) and where do posts (labeled A and B) go...I suspect it goes A1 and 3B, and the nylon straps go to the front windscreen. AGREED? It seems like a lot of weight/stress on the point 1 (sidewindscreen).

Top #2: What is the actual/formal name (bimini, anchor, etc...) and where does post "C"...I suspect it goes C2, and the nylon straps go to the front windscreen (clear plastic towards the aft of the boat. AGREED?
Thanks,
Tom

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Old 09-02-2019 | 06:51 AM
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Hello,

Top 1 is the original formula “Bimini” top. They came with 4 bows. It mounts on top of windshield frame with the poles going to the aft just by the sun pad. Usually the straps are attached to eyes that are located on the top deck in front of the windshield or to the windshield itself.

I have that same unit on my boat. It’s is a great... large and covers a lot of area. I have kept it closed when hauling across the lake at 60. But keep it open when crushing 35 ish. Works very well and the frame and all supports well.

That other top, 2, looks like an aftermarket Bimini. Would mount on the inside lower bracket. Because it has the plastic windscreen, that attaches above window, then usually has straps or poles that would go to a point in the back toward the suN pad.

Use the original formula one. I even trailer with it in upright position.

Hope that helps,
chris
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Old 09-02-2019 | 08:35 AM
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Originally Posted by MyIsland
Hello,

Top 1 is the original formula “Bimini” top. They came with 4 bows. It mounts on top of windshield frame with the poles going to the aft just by the sun pad. Usually the straps are attached to eyes that are located on the top deck in front of the windshield or to the windshield itself.
Hope that helps,
chris
Thanks...so the Bimini does not put too much weight/strain on the side windshield? So it sounds like my assumption Top #1 A1 and B3 works. I will re look at top #2.
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Old 09-02-2019 | 08:42 AM
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Originally Posted by MyIsland


That other top, 2, looks like an aftermarket Bimini. Would mount on the inside lower bracket. Because it has the plastic windscreen, that attaches above window, then usually has straps or poles that would go to a point in the back toward the suN pad.

Hope that helps,
chris
So you think this goes to the lower bracket and the plastic goes to the front of the boat? It does have grommets that could/may attach to the grommets on the windshield. I'll try it!
Thanks again!
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Old 09-02-2019 | 09:40 PM
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Yes I think the way you have that pic labeled, the plastic window goes to the windshield on the boat. But I think that Bimini top would be better served just getting rid of it.

The original one is very nice. Stainless poles. The window frame appears to hold it up very well. That window frame is fairly strong, right near where the top attaches at windshield the grab handle comes up and reinforces. Then you have the pole that supports it off the back. It’s a real nice unit. That unit should have had zippers on it for camper canvas, which would have had the same plastic window that is on the other top. I’d say if you really want the plastic window, get one made for the Originl top.

hope that helps. Have any questions, feel free and give a call 740-777-2909.

where you located and boat?
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Old 09-03-2019 | 07:26 AM
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Thanks MyIsland! (and the whole forum).
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Old 09-05-2019 | 04:49 PM
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Okay...I see how the canvas/clear plastic looks in this picture:
But my front windscreen does not have attachment grommets...are they add-onable...can you just add receiver snaps to the windscreen trim?
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Old 09-05-2019 | 11:28 PM
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Yes you sure can add snaps or whatever grommets you need. Usually a marina will have some snaps. But if you look online there are all different kinds.
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