I recently installed a new rear cockpit canopy. Fabricated out of 1/2" Divinycell, 18 oz. Biaxial fabric and epoxy, I started by getting the roof curve off the back of the cabin top. I then built a strongback using that curve to form the roof. After laminating the top of the canopy and adding side rails for strength, I removed the top from the strongback and flipped it over to laminate the underside.
I also added rails to the front and back to provide additional strength. Then the fun began as the top and rails had to be faired. After fairing, I painted the top with the most expensive part of the build - PPG car paint that matches Buddy's tan gelcoat.
Once painted I test fit the top to Buddy using a 2x4 frame. I then measured for the support posts.
After I received a bid to fabricate the posts out of 2" stainless, I decided to have the posts fabricated out of equally strong square aluminum that I primed and finished with epoxy paint.
The top was then installed using the same attachment method Rosborough used on the aft end of the cabin top.





No comments:
Post a Comment