How to Build a Hard Dodger in only 14 Days

[slacker]

Dodger 063.jpg Views: 6536 Size: 498.8 KB ID: 6892" style="margin: 2px" />We recently built a fiberglass hard dodger top for our Gulfstar 37. All of the pictures and instructions are on our blog page at How to build a hard dodger in only 14 days | Slackers in Paradise

Have a look.

[DAdams]

I checked it out... Awesome job even for a Slacker in Paradise! Pretty cool blog you've got going on there too!

All the best...

[Hud3]

Really nice job, slacker! Most hard dodgers I've seen are pretty clunky looking. Yours has a nice, curved shape. Nice!!!

[slacker]

You know, despite all the time involved it really was not that hard to do. Had we built in the US it would have been much easier. You know, just run down to Home Depot or West for extra stuff. Knowing what I know now I would build it using System 3 or even polyester. The hardest part was getting the mat to wet out. There are much better glass options available in the US. All in all though, it turned out fine.

[SeaKing]

That reminds me of a large project I want to do. Make a hard top on our cat, replacing the sunbrella that always sags and leaks where it meets the existing fiberglass. Two sides matching into the center walk and Targa/Arch. My panels will be flat and I think I can do it away from the boat in a "controlled" environment, like our garage. I'll have to look into the bi-axial knit. Why would it be easier? for the finishing?

Maybe I can send a photo to you slacker for some hints on how you would attack the job...

Yours looks great!

[DeepFrz]

SeaKing, you could save a lot of the finishing work by using vacuum infusion or even vacuum bagging techniques. They are relatively easy for flat panels. You probably would want to use a core in your panels to keep the weight down.

[James S]

Nice job on the dodger and excellent site.....thanks!

I cant believe how similar our backstay radar mounts are...I thought I was looking at a picture of mine.

[Celestialsailor]

Really cool...good job. I built one for my former boat in Ca. It was a pain and I had all the cool F/G shops only minutes away. I can imagine what you went through.

[SeaKing]

Originally Posted by DeepFrz

SeaKing, you could save a lot of the finishing work by using vacuum infusion or even vacuum bagging techniques. They are relatively easy for flat panels. You probably would want to use a core in your panels to keep the weight down.

I was looking at that last night after I posted. I will be learning alot in this project, there are also premade panels that could be a possibility. They come in sheets up to 5' x 10' ......Thanks Deep

[dancamp009]

Originally Posted by slacker

Attachment 6892We recently built a fiberglass hard dodger top for our Gulfstar 37. All of the pictures and instructions are on our blog page at How to build a hard dodger in only 14 days | Slackers in Paradise

Have a look.

Why is it I can't find your blog on building a hard dodger? I can get to the site with all the pictures of you in Mexico etc. , but nothing regarding building a hard dodger. can you please give me the exact address to that site?
thank you

[idpnd]

It's here

[denverd0n]

So, just so that I'm clear, the FRP was not just an initial form that was later removed, but is also the bottom layer of the hardtop. Is that correct? So that looking up at the underside of the dodger you see the FRP? I assume no problems with the epoxy and fiberglass matting sticking to it.

[dancamp009]

nice job on the dodger. I'm thinking about making a hard dodger and a hard bimini. thanks for the tips

[witzgall]

Alert. Thread resurrection!!!!

I was thinking about a panel idea that would avoid all of the fiberglass work. What about two 1/4 inch panels bonded together when they are placed in form. If a structural adhesive was used, it might keep shape after curing. you would have a finished surface on both sides. Would this work? Be too heavy?

Chris