PVC T-Top

[chasenabby]

I have a 72 170 Aquasport and saw pictures on here of a few that had what looked to be like PVC t-tops. Has anyone built one of these tops and would it support a rocket launcher?

[LilRichard]

Doubt it.

[John Jones]

Even the cheap stainless steel ones that clamp together like sold at West Marine do not hold up.

[GoneFission]

The real strength problem with t-tops is not when the boat is on the water, it's when it's trailered.  Most boats never see 60 MPH on the water, but will see more than that on a trailer.  Think about the stress and fatigue that comes from the buffeting of that big, flat surface as you go down the highway passing trucks and other vehicles.  The reason t-tops are so stout is to allow what is essentially a 4x6 foot horizontal sail to travel through the air at 60+ MPH and not come apart.  

PVC would probably work fine if all you were looking for was shade and the boat never went very fast.  But I doubt if it would have the strength needed for trailering.  My $.02...

[fishbonz]

I think what you saw was white powder coated aluminum.  Look at Everglades boats- they come standard.

[LilRichard]

If it works for a T-top someone let me know... I need a Tower!  I can see it now... it'd be like building a PVC erector-set. 

[luv2flycessna]

Lil Richard  I am going to try one and see, I figured for what it would actually cost to build one if it doesn't work I haven't lost much. I have a bimini top on mine now and am going to use the top (material only for the the actual canvas top) and see, I am going to use 1 1/2" pvc schedule 40 pipe, all I need is the time to do this but have been thinking about it for a few months. Will let you know If and when I get it done  

[71flatback]

good luck

[RickK]

ditto - it'll be bowing in no time

[Capt. Bob]

PVC pipe has a very long life span....UNDERGROUND!
The Fla. sun limits that span to only a few months.
Guess you could paint it so as to resist the UV rays.
Maybe you can mount it so that it is removable when trailering and can be placed upside down in the bed of your truck. You do have a truck, right?

Anyway good luck...oh and pics please.

[aqua70]

PVC will not hold up. Too much flex and bend. I have installed a 3/4 inch pvc windshield as temporary shield against the elements.
    On a 17 footer there is not much room for  mounting. I wire tied it to the grab rail on the center console. ( no more wind burn cheeks).
I will post some pictures soon.