Looking for quality Bimini straps

[vpbarkley]

The straps on our Bimini top are only six months old. Yet, the hooks are a rusted mess, ready for the land fill.

I don't have access to a sewing machine to replace just the hooks. Is there a source for quality Bimini straps with hooks and adjusters?

I have looked at reviews for Bimini straps from multiple sources. I often see that the hooks rust out in short order. There's no point in buying those.

Thanks for your help.

[thinwater]

Another possibility is to learn hand stitching with a palm. A skill every all-around sailor develops. You can replace the hooks in minutes while relaxing at anchor. Something to do as the sun sets.

[Frankly]

1/4" 3 strand nylon makes a much better deal. Got to get the length right (nylon/ top material stretch can compensate for small errors). Doesn't vibrate in wind. Replaced my fwd ones with SS tubing number of years back. Great hand steadying stepping in/out of cockpit. Have not had a strap on a bimini top in 40 years.


Frankly

[tkeithlu]

You're not the only one to have that problem. Amazon sells stainless steel hooks and adjustors:

https://www.amazon.com/YYST-Stainles...5853955&sr=8-4

[Phyrcooler]

Ironically, I’ve been having ads pop up this past week on FB for “Strapworks.com”. Their web page has a wide assortment of straps, hook, buckles, etc. I have NOT purchased anything from them yet - though I will be giving them a try this week, as they happen to have a solution for something I was already looking for.

Edit: they also do custom work.

[Scratchee]

Originally Posted by Frankly

...Doesn't vibrate in wind...

I discovered that when hauling a kayak on the roof of my truck, if I give the flat tie-down straps a simple twist or two, they don't vibrate in the wind.

[Clivevon]

Originally Posted by Scratchee

I discovered that when hauling a kayak on the roof of my truck, if I give the flat tie-down straps a simple twist or two, they don't vibrate in the wind.

Couldn’t live with that look. I use doubled up nylon cord now, but my bimini stays up all the time. Its a great rain cover at the helm!

[James M B]

I went to sta set 3/16 line with a hook to the toerail on the forward end, and slip knots that can be tensioned on the back end.'
Lasts for years.

[GordMay]

Originally Posted by Frankly

1/4" 3 strand nylon makes a much better deal... ... Doesn't vibrate in wind...

Originally Posted by Scratchee

I discovered that when hauling a kayak on the roof of my truck, if I give the flat tie-down straps a simple twist or two, they don't vibrate in the wind.

Indeed. The “twists” disrupt the Von Karman vortices.
➥ https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums...tml#post299846

Helical [Scruton] Strakes: Tried and True for Vortex-Induced Vibration Suppression
➥ http://www.helicalstrakes.com/index.html

[Manateeman]

Try a store that sells mountain climbing equipment. A little magnet will help you determine the quality of the stainless but it’s not a perfect method.
The manatee crew

[David B]

Originally Posted by vpbarkley

The straps on our Bimini top are only six months old. Yet, the hooks are a rusted mess, ready for the land fill.

I don't have access to a sewing machine to replace just the hooks. Is there a source for quality Bimini straps with hooks and adjusters?

I have looked at reviews for Bimini straps from multiple sources. I often see that the hooks rust out in short order. There's no point in buying those.

Thanks for your help.

Wondering what you have there, as our 2012 OC50 is fitted with all stainless steel, or plated bronze buckles and clips - all still working fine. Can't believe the original clips are plated steel.

Suggest you contact a canvas company that specialises in biminis etc. They will have the proper clips and webbing, and could quickly make up whatever you need.