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Hunter OEM Parts
General Marine Parts
Dodger and Bimini Setup
posted 07-13-2019 by Terry Cox
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Skipper prefers the lower profile of this dodger that gives good visibility while seated in the cockpit. Lower profile reduces wind drag compared to other higher profile dodgers.
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Lower profile dodger has sides that slope inward to give improved winch clearance. This setup provides sufficient room for the winch handle to swing full circle avoiding trim interference.
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As this photo shows there is room for genoa winch handle swinging full circle. However, when working the winch handle with one or both hands, my knuckles will scrap the side of the dodger window. You can see in this photo where I added a strip of leather chafe guard to the plastic window to avoid damaging the plastic.
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This photo shows two points that need mentioning:
1. The bimini sits higher than the top of the dodger, giving enough standing room for the skipper. The front part has a window for viewing that zips onto the top of the dodger for foul weather protection.
2. Notice the bimini frame that holds up the middle and forward part of the bimini giving ample standing room for moving about the cockpit. this frame can fold back out of the way against the SS arch when the bimini is removed.
1. The bimini sits higher than the top of the dodger, giving enough standing room for the skipper. The front part has a window for viewing that zips onto the top of the dodger for foul weather protection.
2. Notice the bimini frame that holds up the middle and forward part of the bimini giving ample standing room for moving about the cockpit. this frame can fold back out of the way against the SS arch when the bimini is removed.
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The PO used the FRP sound box as a snap attachment point for the bimini, which over time made a mess out of the box and its components. After rebuilding the FRP box, I chose to attach the new bimini to the arch using adjustable black plastic buckles when I had the new canvas installed.
Not shown here is how I changed the way the front window panel opens up. Rather than unzipping and rolling up the front panel with straps, I used the twist lock type buttons throughout. When I unzip the front panel, it swings back and up and onto twist lock type buttons to hold it up. These buttons are secured to the back part of the dodger top.
Weve been cruising with this canvas setup for thousands of miles all over PNW waters during our extended two month cruises. I really like how it is setup.
Not shown here is how I changed the way the front window panel opens up. Rather than unzipping and rolling up the front panel with straps, I used the twist lock type buttons throughout. When I unzip the front panel, it swings back and up and onto twist lock type buttons to hold it up. These buttons are secured to the back part of the dodger top.
Weve been cruising with this canvas setup for thousands of miles all over PNW waters during our extended two month cruises. I really like how it is setup.