Gas struts for bimini top

[Palazzoblues]

Has anyone installed gas shocks/struts to aid in lowering and lifting the Bimini top? I have a brand new Aqua Patio with a top and that thing is very heavy to put up and let back down into either the traveling post (lower one) or the up right post. We've struggled trying to get the thing in the locking pins. This should be easier.

[vlxerdon]

Can not help with the strut question but at 70 years old the stock top got to be too much for the wife and I. I purchased the power arm pontoon bimini from Pontoonstuff .com.
The top is raised and lowered electrically. A true blessing for us. Check it out on their web site.




JD

[Palazzoblues]

I took a look at that power arm system. I almost had a heart attack when I saw that is was a Schwintek system. This has a lot to do with my "Palazzoblues" nickname and is a discussion for another forum.

[vlxerdon]

I am familiar with another product of theirs. Had a 32 foot pull behind with a slide out for many years, never had a problem with it.
Hope I am as lucky with the top.

JD

[moregooder]

I have a full 20' foot top on mine that has 6 support columns, the combined wight of the top and fabric is 140 lbs, has full side panels that make a 20 foot cabin. to get all that up and down I have 6 gas struts that have 40lbs of push each you can pick them up at any auto parts store