Let’s Talk About Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop
The Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop offers a seemingly simple solution to a common boating problem: securing your bimini top. Manufactured by Taylor Made, these hinges promise a durable and reliable connection between your boat’s side walls and your bimini frame. For a price point of just $5.99, they seem like a bargain, but does the reality live up to the promise?
My own bimini top saga began last summer. After a particularly rough day on the lake, one of my existing hinges snapped, leaving my bimini flapping wildly in the wind. Finding a quick and affordable replacement became my mission, leading me to the Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop.
Upon receiving the package, my initial thought was that they are smaller than anticipated. The white finish is clean and appears adequately applied. I immediately checked the material and felt a slight bit of disappointment with how ‘plastic-y’ they felt in hand.
I had considered cheaper, generic hinges from an online marketplace. Ultimately, the Taylor Made brand name gave me confidence in a product designed for the harsh marine environment. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the price was certainly right, but the build quality was something I would need to assess during installation and use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested these hinges on my 18-foot center console during a weekend fishing trip on the Chesapeake Bay. The weather was predictably unpredictable, ranging from calm sunny skies to choppy waves and gusty winds. Installing the Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinges was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and about 15 minutes.
They performed adequately in calm conditions, holding the bimini securely in place. However, once the wind picked up, I noticed a slight flex in the plastic. This immediately made me somewhat apprehensive about their long-term durability.
The biggest issue after the first use was a slight discoloration appearing on the white plastic after saltwater exposure. This suggested the material might not be as UV-resistant as I’d hoped, raising concerns about fading and brittleness over time.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full boating season (approximately 4 months) of regular use, the Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinges are showing definite signs of wear. The color has faded noticeably. The hinges closest to the front of the boat, which take the brunt of the wind, are developing small stress cracks.
Cleaning them requires nothing more than a quick rinse with freshwater after each use. However, I did apply a UV protectant spray monthly in an attempt to prolong their lifespan. Despite the protectant, degradation continues.
Compared to the original stainless steel hinges that came with my bimini, the Taylor Made hinges are a clear downgrade in durability. They serve a purpose in a pinch. However, I plan to replace them with higher-quality metal hinges before next season.
Breaking Down the Features of Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop
Specifications
- Material: The hinges are constructed from what appears to be a molded plastic composite. This material is chosen for its affordability.
- Mounting Style: Designed for side-wall mounting. This configuration suits boats where the bimini frame attaches vertically.
- Color: Available in white. This is to match common boat aesthetics.
- Quantity: Sold as a pair. This provides enough hinges for one bimini support arm.
These specifications are crucial for understanding the limitations of the product. The plastic construction, while budget-friendly, significantly impacts durability. The side-mount design dictates compatibility with specific boat and bimini configurations, so confirm your needs before purchasing.
Performance & Functionality
The Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop performs adequately under ideal conditions. They hold the bimini upright and allow for easy folding when not in use.
The main weakness lies in their inability to withstand significant stress. High winds and rough seas can cause them to flex, potentially leading to failure. They meet the basic expectation of a hinge but fall short in terms of long-term reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional, with a low profile that doesn’t detract from the boat’s appearance. The lightweight plastic makes them easy to handle during installation.
There’s no learning curve involved; they are as user-friendly as any basic hinge. However, the plastic material feels cheap. This detracts from the overall quality impression.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the plastic construction and observed wear after a single season, the lifespan is a concern. Expect to replace these hinges every one to two seasons.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water. However, this can’t prevent material degradation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available.
Because of their standardized design, they may be compatible with third-party bimini hardware. However, compatibility is not guaranteed and should be carefully verified.
Pros and Cons of Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop
Pros
- Affordable: The low price point makes them an accessible option for boat owners on a budget.
- Easy Installation: Simple design allows for quick and easy installation.
- Lightweight: Doesn’t add significant weight to the bimini structure.
- Clean Aesthetic: White finish blends well with most boats.
- Readily Available: Easy to find at most marine supply stores and online retailers.
Cons
- Low Durability: Plastic construction is prone to cracking and breaking, especially in harsh marine environments.
- Fading: The white color fades quickly with sun exposure.
- Limited Strength: Not suitable for heavy-duty applications or rough conditions.
Who Should Buy Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop?
The Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop is perfect for boaters on a very tight budget who need a temporary or short-term solution. It is best suited for boats that are used primarily in calm waters. Additionally, those who store their boat indoors and rarely expose it to direct sunlight may find them more durable.
Anyone who frequently boats in rough conditions, or who values long-term reliability should skip this product. Consider investing in stainless steel hinges instead.
A must-have is UV protectant spray. This can help slow down the degradation process.
Conclusion on Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop
The Taylor Made Side-Mount Deck Hinge For Bimini Boatop offers an extremely budget-friendly solution for replacing worn-out bimini hinges. However, the plastic construction limits its durability and lifespan.
The low price is definitely justified for its short term use. However, you should factor in the cost of more frequent replacements.
I would cautiously recommend it only as a temporary fix or for boaters on a very tight budget who understand the limitations. For anyone else, investing in higher-quality metal hinges is a far better long-term investment. Don’t be afraid to spend a bit more upfront for a product that will last. After all, being stranded on the water due to a failed bimini hinge is a situation best avoided.