Camper back mounting to cabin

D

Don and Brenda

New member
I am getting ready to have a camper back made, how is it connected to the cabin? I have seen a few pic that are just snapped directly to the fiberglass and others looks like there is something affixed to the cabin and then the canvas snaps to that piece. What is the best way?
 
The King products have a zipper piece that is mounted across the top and snaps on the sides and back. Whatever you decide to do, pay particular attention to where the canvas joins the deck, and at all the corners. If it doesn't work correctly there will be leaks where water runs down the sides and under the canvas edges.
 
Don and Brenda":traaqout said:
I am getting ready to have a camper back made, how is it connected to the cabin? I have seen a few pic that are just snapped directly to the fiberglass and others looks like there is something affixed to the cabin and then the canvas snaps to that piece. What is the best way?
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On the latter, it is probably a plastic/rubber track for a bolt rope. I have the snaps that are on the cabin roof, but wish that I had gone with a bolt rope. One thing I highly recommend is getting a zipper that will allow you to peel a part of the top back so you can step directly down into the cockpit. Otherwise, you unsnap a portion of the top, or get down on your hands and knees to crawl in.
 
The material which is screwed to the cabin top (and can also be screwed to the cabin sides) is called awning rail extrusion. This is available in both vinyl and aluminum--the vinyl is preferable for boating. This allows a fully water tight connection of the top and canvas. Agree that you want both a zipper on the welt which goes into the awning rail (also called a "bolt rope"--although an actual bolt rope is usually a bit heavier). There needs to be a double flap with velcro over the zipper.

It is far better if the top is free standing, thus the front few inches can be left open for ventilation in hot weather.
Bimini_camper_canvas_in_construction.sized.jpg

Here is a photo of the side using awning rail instead of snaps--and again it will give a more water tight connection:
Camper_canvas_side_attatchment.sized.jpg

Framework from the inside--and this shows the solid SS support fore and aft for the 1" diameter, thick wall SS pipe, rather than thinner wall tubing.
Camper_back_framework.sized.jpg
 
Thanks guys, Bob that is a real nice set up. I am going to model mine after the boat Foggy Dew with mesh on the outside and sunbrella privacy curtains on the inside. Most of my boating for the next 3 years will be Sacramento, Ca based and when I move it to the Washington house will switch to Eisenglass.
 
Don and Brenda":1lhb0udz said:
Thanks guys, Bob that is a real nice set up. I am going to model mine after the boat Foggy Dew with mesh on the outside and sunbrella privacy curtains on the inside. Most of my boating for the next 3 years will be Sacramento, Ca based and when I move it to the Washington house will switch to Eisenglass.
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I'm sure Rick and Donna will be honored. I opted for a different approach. Might not work for some, but again, boating is a combination of compromises.

1_10_2012_from_Canon_961.thumb.jpg

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
Thanks Greg, I looked closely at your camperback as you well know, I do like the twist lock, certainly would make it fast, sometimes those snaps are a real pain. Congrats on the sale, just wish it had been me. Hope it went to someone who can appreciate the work you put into it.
 
Don, if you need a closeup pic of the edge folded back or something just let me know, It will be in the driveway at least another week or so.

Greg
 
Hi Don
We really like our camperback but to be honest we hardly ever use it...but it's a nice option to have when you want it. The attachment onto the roof is the bolt rope mentioned above and I like it a lot because it is quick and simple and nothing to corrode or break like snaps or similar fittings.

We have screens and eisenglass and drop curtains. When you set out to have this project done, try to think of everything you'll want so the design takes your desires into account. Feel free to shoot me a PM for more details if you like. If you ever get to the Port Angeles area, let me know and you can stop in and we'll throw it on so you can get an idea of what it's like.

Rick
 
PM sent to Rick,
Thanks Greg

I like the awning setup, very clean. I am going to get it priced out tomorrow if I can get my ride setup to the canvas maker, still 4 weeks before the doc will let me drive again after surgery
 
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