t top on 20 MA

CaptRJ · #1 04-17-2006, 08:24 AM

I am considering putting a T-top on my 20 Master Angler. One close friend with a lot of experience tells me it will greatly effect the performance of the boat. Can anyone with a 20 with a T top tell me if they are happy or not with the boat with the T top.. Also any input on stainless "vs" aluminum, ??
thanks (power is Suzuki 115)

caper · #2 04-17-2006, 01:19 PM

I have a T-top on my 20'SF and it does slow the boat about 4 mph at WOT - 42 mph to 38mph - on GPS. I really love the protection it provides from sun and rain. My frame is constructed of 1" stainless tubing with an electronics box. At this point I wouldn't do with out it.

NoBones · #3 04-17-2006, 02:12 PM

I have a T on my 1970 20SF with 200HP.
Properly designed it should not effect the performance.
I hit 62mph on the GPS WOT.

See ya, Ken

CaptRJ · #4 04-17-2006, 09:04 PM

thanks for the replies. I believe I will want the T top and just have to decide between the stainless or have a custom aluminum one made. The aluminum quotes are all around $3,000.
Looks like I could get a stainless for half that.. Thanks again for the replies.
Roger

NoBones · #5 04-17-2006, 10:13 PM

Keep in mind Stainless is heavier. The bends in aluminum
have a better eye appeal. Stainless is good for bow rails
in my oppion. Shop around I have seen decent aluminum
tops for $1800
Good luck. and make sure you rub it in to your friend.
See ya, Ken

RS · #6 04-19-2006, 10:14 AM

Since you've only got a 115 you will probably notice a significant difference whereas those with 150 to 200 hp wouldn't. The rest depends on how you intend to use your boat. If you drift for fluke, you will drift much faster with a t-top. If you fish from the helm area, as I often do, you'll bust a few rods on the hookset.

You might want to run your rig for a season without in order to decide if you really want a t-top.

eggsuckindog · #7 05-23-2006, 11:32 PM

I have one on a boat I just bought and haven't really used it yet but will agree with only the 115 it may hurt more.

Ikan Besar · #8 05-24-2006, 05:24 PM

When I bought my SeaCraft 18' I was intent on immediately removing the t-top that was already on it. As the false albacore season was in full swing in NC at the time, I decided to fish it for a few weeks first and then planned to remove the top. After the first day on the water I knew the top would be staying on - it kept the sun/rain off and didn't hinder my other activities at all.

Look at it this way: your 20' with a Suzy 115 is no speed demon to begin with. That being the case, let's say it gets you to your fishing spot five minutes later with a t-top, is that going to be a problem? Do you like an increased level of tan at the end of the day? Do you have access to anyone's boat that is in that size range that has a t-top so you could fish it for a day to see if you want one of your own?

I've never fished in CT so I don't know how much relief from sun I would want up there. Here in South Florida, I find a t-top greatly helps with the heat in the middle of the day and wouldn't own a center console boat without one.

You'll find those that are for and against t-tops or bimini tops but only you know what is best suited to your boating situation. Try before you buy if at all possible.

On the performance issue, I only ran my 20' for one day (with a different engine) prior to it's redo and new engine. With a full 75 gallons, t-top, full cooler, it tops out at 40mph. Maybe one of the other owners with a 140 Suzy and 75 gallon tank can speak to what that hull will do without a top on it.

Trayder · #9 05-24-2006, 05:42 PM

Mark and I own very similarly equiped boats, down to the engine make and HP.

I do not have a top and he does.

Having ridden on both of these boats I felt no differnce what so ever in performance. Actually i think our WOT #'s are within a few MPH?