Brian,

Good point about the strength of a partial zipper support modification on the center ridge pipe of the Bimini. ?There is considerable strain on the existing zipper. ?I’m looking into possible 1” stainless pipe or some webbing to run in a vertical diagonal from the forward strut to the center ridge. ?I’ll update my posts as the project progresses.

?

Dave,

The panels I am considering are the Custom Marine Products shade tolerant design. ?Each panel is internally wired as four separate panels with diodes in between. ?This should help not only over the dodger, but also the Bimini. ?I have a 24” pole mounted RADAR dome in on the port side of the stern quarter similar to you, and appreciate your comments about the shadowing while cruising in a northerly direction. ?I’m also hoping to get at least 50% of the 155W power on the dodger while underway, and plan to swing the boom out when at anchor for quite a bit more.

We’ll see how it goes…. ?John Sheehan of “Whimsey” (S-34T) corrected me during a different winter project he was kind enough to help me with. ?When I casually mentioned “plug & play”. ?He said, “You mean plug & pray.” ?

Don Fleming

Duet

S-38-1 #77

Hudson River