3607 Aft deck coverage

[Grafunkus]

We currently have a soft top over the aft deck on our 3607. Before we moved it to Kenora, it was stored indoors and the aft coverage didn't have to come off. We obviously had to remove everything to move it from Gimli to Kenora and ever since we have not been able to get the top on properly. Our marina also requires us to remove that structure in the fall to be able to wrap for the winter. Our plan it to replace all the canvas on top so I am looking for other ideas for the structure. I would almost prefer to wallpaper with hubby instead of removing this structure!! Does anyone have a "hinged" system similar to the one over the helm? What other options are there? I have attached a couple of photos showing what we have. The "fabric" is more of a vinyl/plasticy thing!

[bud37]

The first time you saw the boat did that canvas ever fit correctly. Over time canvas can really shrink. Do you have a center bar that runs across to keep the canvas from sinking in the middle, if so is it adjustable somehow, that could give you some slack to pull the canvas back over the edge.

Edit...it occurs to me after rereading you may not be asking this, so , ignore the response as I thought it was canvas.

[Grafunkus]

Source of the post The first time you saw the boat did that canvas ever fit correctly. Over time canvas can really shrink. Do you have a center bar that runs across to keep the canvas from sinking in the middle, if so is it adjustable somehow, that could give you some slack to pull the canvas back over the edge.

Edit...it occurs to me after rereading you may not be asking this, so , ignore the response as I thought it was canvas.

Yes, the fabric fit correctly when we bought the boat. Yes there is a center bar but it isn't adjustable. Just letting it be this season. I am looking for other options on how to cover the back. The biggest pain is having to remove the structure in the fall and then reinstall in the spring.

[km1125]

Did you try soaking it down really good? Even though they're waterproof the fabric will still absorb moisture and be a touch more flexible. if you put tension on it when wet it may stretch enough to fit.

I had a bridge cover that was a bear to put on in the early and late parts of the season when it was cooler. It was a bit better when the hot sun was out, as that made it a bit more flexible. That was Sunbrella, but the heavy kind with the vinyl backing.

[Grafunkus]

I guess I just don't know how to ask questions here. I am looking for different ideas on what options for "structure" are. I am not worrying about the current covering as we are planning to replace this winter. It seems that the "straight up posts" are what is standard. Anybody do anything different?????

[km1125]

I've only seen those straight-up posts on boats with actual hard tops. The only other ones I've seen with canvas over the aft deck used a similar structure to the bridge canvas, and that would fold forward or aft just like the bridge canvas does. Those were 'anchored' to the lower railing and didn't go down to the deck.

[RobGunn]

I have a hard-top on my 3607 and we love it. I dont know if you could find a good used hard-top but I guess all you can do is try and look and make some calls?

[bud37]

I agree, if you can swing the cost that seems to be the way to go.

One other point, experienced people that do marine canvas have possibly seen many options and ways to deal with difficult situations....hopefully there are a few around your location you could consult, they may have some connections, worth a try.