[JohnS]

Nick, I guess you are right about nobody knowing or they would have replied. I doubt anyone really makes the original stuff because there really isn't a big calling for it. Your local canvas shop will be able to make up the top for you. I personally like Sunbrella fabric. It comes on all colors and is very durable. The thread that the shops use is more likely to rot out before the actual fabric itself does, had that happen in the past. The frames will be for personal choice. SS will be the most durable again however weighs much more than the aluminum and is very expensive. The aluminum should last as long with proper care and will be easily replaced if needed. I would opt for the SS fittings and such. The Zamak is garbage as far as I am concerned and the plastic stuff plain breaks. The fittings that are crimped in will come loose so, the ones that fit the outside diameter and have the set screw to hold them in place will most likely give you the better connection. Make sure, if you go the aluminum route, that the shop uses a good grade aluminum tubing with a decent wall thickness. Some shops try to cheap out using thin-wall tubing which will bend easily.

If this top will be retractable or fold up, talk to the local guys about making it "strapless" if they can. It is very nice not to have those straps in the way when the top is in place. With a little thinking, this can be done.

Sorry I can not help you in finding a local place to get it done at but, many of the boating magazines, as well as the Boat Trader usually have ads from the local guys listed in them. You can also try searching the Net for places in your area.

John