Let’s Talk About Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel
Bimini tops are crucial for providing shade and protection from the elements on any boat, from a small fishing skiff to a larger cruiser. The Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel is a seemingly simple yet essential component for securing and supporting these vital boat accessories. These deck hinges promise durability and reliability in the harsh marine environment, ensuring your bimini top stays firmly in place, providing much-needed comfort during those long days on the water.
My old deck hinges were showing their age, pitted with rust and barely holding the bimini upright. I needed a reliable replacement that could withstand constant exposure to saltwater and the sun. I wanted something that would last for years to come and provide a solid, secure connection for my bimini top.
Upon unboxing the Taylor Made deck hinges, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel and gleaming stainless steel finish. They had a reassuring weight to them, suggesting a high level of quality and durability. The hinges looked and felt like they could handle the constant stresses of a marine environment.
I considered a few alternatives before settling on the Taylor Made hinges. Some cheaper options were available, but the reviews consistently mentioned issues with rust and premature failure. I also looked at some higher-end brands, but the price point was difficult to justify for what is essentially a simple hinge. The Taylor Made hinges seemed to strike the perfect balance between quality and affordability.
My first impression was definitely positive. These hinges looked and felt like a significant upgrade over my old, worn-out ones. I was excited to install them and get my bimini top back in action.
Real-World Testing: Putting Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Taylor Made deck hinges on my 18-foot center console fishing boat. The installation process was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes per hinge. I tested the hinges on a fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico.
The weather was typical for a summer day on the Gulf: hot, humid, and with a moderate chop on the water. The hinges performed flawlessly. They held the bimini top securely in place, even when we were running at higher speeds and encountering some waves.
There were no surprises after the first use. The hinges worked exactly as expected, providing a solid and stable base for my bimini top. I felt confident that they would hold up well over time.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Taylor Made deck hinges are still performing exceptionally well. They show no signs of rust or corrosion, even with constant exposure to saltwater and sun. The hinges remain tight and secure, with no noticeable loosening or wear.
Cleaning the hinges is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is usually sufficient to keep them looking their best. I occasionally apply a light coat of marine-grade lubricant to the pivot points to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous hinges, these are a breeze to maintain.
The Taylor Made deck hinges have far exceeded my expectations. My previous hinges required frequent replacement due to rust and wear. These hinges appear to be built to last, providing long-term reliability and peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel
Specifications
The Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel is constructed from marine-grade stainless steel, ensuring superior corrosion resistance in harsh saltwater environments. The hinges are designed to mount horizontally, providing a stable base for bimini top support poles. The hinges feature a 90-degree angle, allowing for a clean and streamlined bimini top installation.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of the hinges. Marine-grade stainless steel is essential for preventing rust and corrosion, which can quickly compromise the integrity of other materials. The horizontal mounting design provides optimal stability and weight distribution.
Performance & Functionality
The Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel performs its job admirably, providing a secure and stable base for bimini tops. The hinges allow for easy raising and lowering of the bimini top, making it convenient to adjust to changing weather conditions. The stainless steel construction ensures smooth and reliable operation, even after prolonged use.
The strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction. The potential weakness might be the lack of adjustability. However, the 90-degree angle should be suitable for most standard bimini top installations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel boasts a clean and functional design. The stainless steel construction provides a sleek and professional appearance. The weight feels substantial, but not excessive, indicating a high level of quality and durability.
The design is user-friendly, with no sharp edges or awkward angles. The simple installation process makes it easy for anyone to upgrade their bimini top hardware.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel ensures exceptional durability. With proper care, these hinges should last for many years, even in harsh marine environments. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The hinges are designed to withstand the rigors of boating, providing long-term reliability and peace of mind. The simple design makes them easy to inspect and maintain, ensuring optimal performance over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with most standard bimini top support poles and hardware. Some boaters may choose to add stainless steel mounting screws or backing plates for added security.
The compatibility with standard bimini top hardware makes it easy to customize the installation to suit individual needs. The stainless steel construction also allows for easy painting or powder coating to match the boat’s aesthetic.
Pros and Cons of Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel
Pros
- Durable marine-grade stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance in harsh saltwater environments.
- Simple and straightforward installation process requires only basic tools.
- Provides a secure and stable base for bimini tops, even in rough conditions.
- Easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional rinsing and lubrication.
- Offers excellent value for money, striking a balance between quality and affordability.
Cons
- Lack of adjustability may not be suitable for all bimini top installations.
- Mounting hardware (screws) are not included.
Who Should Buy Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel?
The Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel is perfect for boat owners looking for a reliable and durable replacement for their existing bimini top hardware. It’s ideal for anglers, recreational boaters, and anyone who spends time on the water and values the comfort and protection provided by a bimini top. This is a great choice for someone looking for quality without breaking the bank.
Those who require adjustable hinges or have non-standard bimini top configurations might need to explore other options. If you require a different angle than 90 degrees, these will not work. Mounting hardware, such as stainless steel screws, are a must-have accessory for a proper installation.
Conclusion on Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel
The Taylor Made 11733 Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop 90 deg Stainless Steel is a solid and reliable product that delivers on its promise of durability and performance. The price is definitely justified. It’s a small investment that can significantly extend the life of your bimini top.
I would absolutely recommend these hinges to any boat owner in need of a replacement or upgrade. They are a well-built and affordable solution that will provide years of trouble-free service. Upgrade your bimini top hardware today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your investment is secure!