Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
I bought my 55 convertible recently knowing the "eisenglass" enclosure was shot. The enclosure is there but has holes in it, badly stained, etc. I am trying to decide how to proceed on this. After running Lake Ponchatrain a couple weeks ago to flush my coolant I realized how much I need this on those cold rainy days. I have replaced this same type material on a pop up camper years ago. There was a place that had templates to many different campers, etc. I was able to trash my old ones and get new ones that fit perfectly for around $850. I lost the name of the company so don't know if they do boats or not. I know this price is a pipe dream in the marine world but I figure it would be cheaper to buy from someone who has the templates or could build based on my old ones vs a company than would have to come to my boat and custom make. Does anyone know of a company that has the templates? There is a local tarp company that has done some work on my catamaran eisenglass but mostly snap and zipper repair. They may be able to re-sew new vinyl into the existing canvas or reproduce but could cost me more than buying from someone who specializes in boats. That was the case on my camper. They were twice what the online place was as they didnt do this much. Also am considering taking the windshield off, doing away with the wipers, and running the enclosure down to the fiberglass. I have seen a few like this
Re: Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
Have you tried Sam’s yet. If you can’t find them in their catalog call Steve or Mike. They can direct you to someone who has or can build them good luck.
Re: Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
Unless you have a factory hard top, you will not find patterns. The old curtains should serve the purpose just be sure to allow for any shrinkage. Consider using acrylic for the front panels for better clarity. And sit down when you get the price quote.
Bobk
Re: Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
I will check with Sams. They don't have on catalog. I'm sure the price is going to make me re-think " needing" them
Re: Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
If the canvass part is ok a good canvass shop can just sew new glass into the old canvass. The easiest way is to sew in the new glass and then cut out the old so the glass holds the shape. We had this done and it was not to expensive. John
Re: Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
Find a local outfit to re-glass your current enclosure or have them copy what you have.
Even a direct copy might not fit your hardware so don't be worried about them coming to the boat to "fit" it.
You're going to need them for other stuff in the future so might as well start building a relationship.
Usually I say you get what you pay for, but my experience with canvas shops is you just need to find the right one that fits the quality you're looking for along with the price. Probably best to ask around locally for references.
Re: Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
7 panels on my 45 was over 8 grand. 3 on the front, 2 on each side, no stern. All had single U zips. Local guy would not use originals for patterns. Came out and made templates, and installed himself, so he could install snaps and other fasteners for a tight custom fit.
Good luck
Tim
Re: Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
Sent an email to Sams and a place I found online this am but no response yet from either. I have a local canvas shop that has done work for me on my power cat. Mostly fixing snaps or tears. I will take the old ones by there once I determine they are the proper ones (they were not installed so Im not 100% sure they even go with the boat). Will get a quote from them also and go from there. Thanks for all the replies
Re: Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Fish Tales
7 panels on my 45 was over 8 grand. 3 on the front, 2 on each side, no stern. All had single U zips. Local guy would not use originals for patterns. Came out and made templates, and installed himself, so he could install snaps and other fasteners for a tight custom fit.
Good luck
Tim
My wife did ours with stamoid and 40 mil strataglass. Cost me materials and a Sailrite sewing machine. A LOT less than $8000. Lol
Re: Flybridge Enclosure Replacement
How much are sewing lessons cause my wife cant lol....I think she is playing dumb like I do with the washing machine...She is pretty good at shooting fish though. I am taking a seat out of my camper to a lady that does repairs to car seats etc. I am going to bring this up with her as well. She may sew if I buy materials. I just want to make sure the old ones are for my boat before I have someone make anything off them