[abl1111]

Gotcha. I always thought that the thin, anodized alum pc screwed into place, along the length of the side window frame somehow had something to do w/ the mounting.

I never saw any locknuts/washers on my side frames, but I will check again.

I do know that I tightened and sealed the front window frame nuts due to obvious leaks / rust on the gorilla fur carpet ( oh, the 70's ! ) - and I overtightened and snapped one of the nuts - what are they, bronze ? Thank god there was no real detriment to this and all is well.

I would have removed the frames if I was going to replace or paint them, but I decided that I would have to live w/ the corossion from the bimini snaps ( SS vs aluminum ). Replacement is $$$$, and I think that any paint or powder coat would eventually have to chip in the joint areas from constant movement. I did replace the windows, gasket materials and upgraded the stock, cheesey "U" twist handle things for a much better handle that you can buy from the manuf, American Marine ( I highly recommend this retrofit ).