How to Install a 2-Bow Bimini Frame

X-HT-300191

A bimini is a great way to protect yourself and your passengers from the sun, rain and spray while boating. A strong frame will ensure that your bimini lasts for years to come. Sailrite® frame kits have all the supplies you need to create a durable bimini customized for your boat. This video tutorial will provide an in-depth look at how to measure, build and assemble your 2-bow frame using a Bimini Frame Kit from Sailrite.

Video Chapters:

Measuring for Bimini Frame – 0:42 min.
Building Wooden Platform – 2:30 min.
Mounting Deck Hinge & Strap Eyes – 3:47 min.
Bedding Hardware – 4:36 min.
Measuring & Cutting Primary & Secondary Bow – 7:45 min.
Assembling the Bows – 11:13 min.
Adjusting the Bows – 18:57 min.
Marking Skirt Height – 25:46 min.
Materials List – 26:29 min.

Materials List:

Universal Deck Hinge (Stainless Steel) – #103120*
Phillips Oval Head Tapping Screw #10 x 1-1/4" (Stainless Steel) – #121251*
Strap Eye Stainless Steel – #28221*
Screw Flat Head #6 x 1/2" – #777040*
Rivet Stainless Steel 3/16" (for Bimini & Dodger Frames) – #103118*
Eye End Stainless Steel – 1" #42101 or 7/8" #207100*
Jaw Slide Stainless Steel – 1" #42102 or 7/8" #33208*
Fast Eye Snap Hook 1" (Stainless Steel) – #100532**
Trimmable Butyl Tape 1" (30 Feet) – #103689
Filament Strapping Tape – #5643*

* Included in Bimini Frame Kits

** Included in Bimini Skin Kits

Tools List:

Drill Steady Tubing Tool – #100967
Professional Rivet Tool – #103520
Tape Measure 120" – #102986
Tape Measure, Permanent Marker, Scissors, Hacksaw, Drill, #11 Drill Bit, 1/8" Drill Bit, 5/32" Drill Bit, Countersink Drill Bit, 1/8" Hex Wrench, Ruler, Level

The great thing about the Sailrite Bimini Frame Kits are the numerous options available! Before starting your frame, it’s important to decide if you’ll be installing it on the deck or rails of your boat, as that will determine the height. We will be attaching ours to the rails of the boat. You’ll also need to choose the frame material, as Sailrite offers frame kits in both stainless steel and aluminum. Stainless steel is sturdier and better for saltwater, while aluminum is a lighter, less expensive option.

In this video, we’ll be building a stainless steel 2-bow bimini frame with a maximum spread of 42", a maximum height of 60" and a maximum width of 106". If you find your boat needs more coverage than that, we recommend selecting a 3- or 4-bow Bimini Frame Kit. Sailrite offers the highest-quality kits to help you create your own 2-, 3- and 4-bow bimini frames. When your frame is complete and you’re ready for a top, make sure to check out our “How to Make a 2-Bow Bimini Top” (#300192XHT) video for more step-by-step instructions.

Our frame kits come with all of the hardware and components you need to assemble and install the bimini frame. They are designed to pair with the Bimini Skin Kits, which include reliable marine grade fabric and the supplies needed to sew your bimini top after the frame is complete. Every Bimini Frame Kit and Bimini Skin Kit from Sailrite is completely customizable, so you'll have everything you need to create a dependable, unique addition for your vessel.

In this video, we built our bimini frame on a wooden platform on the floor instead of on the boat. This is a practical option if you don’t have your boat nearby or need protection from the elements, and it allows full access to every angle of the frame. This video includes instructions and materials needed to make the wooden platform if you wish to follow our example. Choosing your Bimini Frame Kit and Bimini Skin Kit together from Sailrite guarantees you a custom, high-quality addition to your boat. We hope this helps you on your next boating adventure!