T-Top Time!

[GoneFission]

OK, I finally ditched the bimini a put a t-top on.  Dupree said it was about the best thing he has done to his CCP, and so far I like it a lot!  Only downside is louder engine noise underway than running with no top - but I can handle that and I don't miss putting the bimini up and down...  

[John Jones]

Lookin good Cap'n John

[gran398]

It DOES look good, real clean. That extra 10db will be forgotten in the next frog-strangler. And, when you come to the beach, an even bigger plus. And last, no messing with the bimini all the time. Nice!

[RickK]

[seabob4]

Gotta love T-tops...  

[John Jones]

and extra out of the way rod holders are always handy.

[jdupree]

Looks great John    I bet you were surprised how different and bigger it makes the boat look :!:   Congrats

[DOCREED]

When you are ready, get an enclosure for the T-top.  It makes it a completely differnt boat.  in the winter, when its cool, you will be toasty.
It will keep you dry(drier) as well.

[saltfly]

Being a fly fisherman. The first thing I did was take off the bimni top when I got my boat. You just can't cast a fly rod with one up. I also got tired of the hot sun  :sunny: in the middle of the day. So on went a t top and I've never regretted it. I think they look better as well. But like everything else. Each person has to make their own decision. as to what is better for their needs.

[Deep Creek]

Good Morning,
I am a Brand new member. 2003 204 cc not a classic yet, but some day.  I would like to put a T Top on as well.  Did you screw the leg plates into the deck like the manufacturer says or did you cut access and plate underneatrh deck,

also what is the length on a 204?  When I bought the boat it was registered at 22

Thank you
Deep Creek

[RickK]

Welcome aboard DC  :!:  :!:

[GoneFission]

Good Morning,
I am a Brand new member. 2003 204 cc not a classic yet, but some day.  I would like to put a T Top on as well.  Did you screw the leg plates into the deck like the manufacturer says or did you cut access and plate underneatrh deck,

Welcome to the site DC!  I had already cut holes in the deck and installed deck hatches for under-deck rod storage:
viewtopic.php?f=2&t=5395&p=35813#p35813  

Those hatches gave me access to run screws through the deck and put nuts on the underside.  I used 1/4 x 3" stainless screws and nuts with large fender washers and lots of 5200 top and bottom.

[Deep Creek]

Thank you
I will do the same
DC

[GoneFission]

DC - before you start cuttin', make sure you know where the stringers are and what's under the deck.  Note where the fuel inlet hose goes under, and also the rigging tray for wiring, etc.  A good idea is also to use a circular saw to cut the deck and set the blade to barely cut through the deck.  For the corners, use a 2" hole saw, and again, just cut deep enough to cut through - not into whatever else is under there unless you are sure it's clear.    

If you cut outside the stringers like I did, you will find the area is foamed.  The foam is usually adhered to the bottom of the decking, so it takes a bit of effort to pop the deck pieces up after you cut the deck.  Then you need to get the foam out to get access.  I use a narrow blade shovel and a drill with a 3" auger bit to remove the foam.  

Hope this helps - good luck!

[Deep Creek]

Thank you
maybe I might be better advised to find someone with really long arms to reach the mount positions from the round 8 in access under the console, over my fuel tank. I will take precaution Thanks

DC