[Paul F]

I looked up your model on a bimini manufacturer web site and it showed your boat using a 79" to 84" width and a 36 inch height. I 'm guessing they used 36 inch height to keep it at a sport boat height.

My boat came with a convertible top and there are mounting brackets already attached to the windshield. I plan to take a hacksaw and cut the bimini poles down and reattach the ends, then attache to the windshield frame at that point. If yours doesn't have those brackets, I'm know you can buy them.

That's a lot less drilling into my hull and I don't have to worry about the windshield frame getting in the way when I fold it down. Plus it's a cleaner looking installation.
I've heard concerns about mounting to the windshield, but 90% of the boats I saw this weekend are installed that way.

The one I'm ordering is a 46 inch height and a 73" to 78" inch with. The inside of my brackets measure 73 inches exactly.

It's a lot easier to shorten a pole than lengthen it.

[gahooligan]

Bimini Top Fittings - Stainless Steel Rail Mount - Overton's

Is this what I need to attach the Bimini to the windshield frame? Is this a good idea or should I go with the 46" and mount it inside or out side the windshield. I know some boats had stock mounts on the frame. Mine does not. I do not want to end up with broken glass. I plan on buying rear supports to keep the top closed but "raised" out of the way when not in use. Thoughts?

[PlumLazy]

I'm pretty happy with the placement of my bimini mounts. Put your mounts where when you lay it down you can still sit in the back seat. As others have said you can cut some length out of the lower ends if you need to. I cut mine down and then re-crimped the ends into the tubes. Or you could drill and rivet them .

[PlumLazy]

Originally Posted by gahooligan

Bimini Top Fittings - Stainless Steel Rail Mount - Overton's

Is this what I need to attach the Bimini to the windshield frame? Is this a good idea or should I go with the 46" and mount it inside or out side the windshield. I know some boats had stock mounts on the frame. Mine does not. I do not want to end up with broken glass. I plan on buying rear supports to keep the top closed but "raised" out of the way when not in use. Thoughts?

I would think your new bimini would come with the mounts. If you mount it inside or outside the windsheild, it might not still be possible to lay it flat so you can cover your boat without totally removing it. Edit: just looked at your link and those mounts are for attaching to a round tube. The top of my windsheild is pretty flat.

[gahooligan]

I don't have my boat in my possession right now but looking at pictures the frame seems to have a rounded top so I'm ordering just in case. Only time I'd lay it completely down is for storage or trailering. Plan on leaving it collapsed and resting on the read additional supports while running about the lake.

[gahooligan]

Pulled the trigger. I'll be sure to post pictures and let ya'll know how it goes. (and if my glass shatters, lol) Thanks for all the help guys! I am glad to have found a community of Mariah owners to help each other out!!