Let’s Talk About Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in
The Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in is a seemingly simple piece of hardware, but its importance to boat owners with walk-thru windshields cannot be overstated. Taylor Made is a known name in the marine industry. This support bar aims to provide structural integrity and stability to your windshield, especially crucial in choppy waters or during transport.
My experience in the outdoor and tactical world might seem disconnected from boating, but understanding quality materials and reliable construction translates directly. Many of the same principles of durable gear apply. I ended up looking for this product after a particularly rough day on the lake resulted in my windshield rattling itself loose – a scary and potentially dangerous situation.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the finish. The powder coat seemed even and durable, promising resistance to the harsh marine environment. It felt solid in my hand, not flimsy like some of the cheaper alternatives I had seen online. My initial thought was, “This seems built to last.”
I considered a universal adjustable bar from a generic brand, and a similar product from a different manufacturer with a stainless-steel finish. I ultimately chose the Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in due to its reputation for being original equipment on many boats. I figured the proven track record was worth the slightly higher price. I was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in on my 20-foot center console during a fishing trip on Lake Erie. Lake Erie is notorious for its unpredictable and often choppy conditions. This was the perfect proving ground. Installation was surprisingly easy; the pivoting fittings really did allow for adjustments in almost any direction, making it simple to find the ideal mounting points.
The bar held firm, even when we hit some unexpected swells. There was no rattling or vibration from the windshield, providing a much more secure and comfortable ride. After the first use, I noticed a significant improvement in the overall stability of the boat.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in continues to perform flawlessly. It has endured everything from sunny days to torrential downpours. There is no sign of rust or corrosion on the powder-coated finish.
I periodically wipe it down with a marine-grade cleaner to remove salt spray and prevent buildup, which is a quick and easy process. The bar has far surpassed my expectations. It’s a significant improvement over the factory setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in
Specifications
- The Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in is precisely 16 inches in length. This length makes it suitable for many common walk-thru windshield configurations.
- The bar is constructed from powder-coated aluminum tubing. This powder-coated aluminum provides a balance of strength, lightweight, and corrosion resistance.
- It features chrome-plated zamak feet. These chrome-plated zamak feet offer a durable and attractive mounting solution.
- The fittings are made from nylon. The nylon fittings allow for pivoting in multiple directions.
- The bar is sold as a single unit. This means you need to order two if your windshield requires two supports.
These specifications are vital for ensuring the support bar functions effectively and lasts for years in the harsh marine environment. The pivoting fittings, in particular, are crucial for ease of installation and compatibility with various windshield designs.
Performance & Functionality
The Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function is to provide robust support for a walk-thru windshield, and it excels at this. The windshield remains stable even in rough conditions.
The only improvement I could suggest would be to include mounting hardware (screws) in the package, as I had to source those separately. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a product in this category.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in prioritizes utility over aesthetics. The powder-coated finish is clean and provides a professional look.
There’s no real learning curve. Installation is straightforward, thanks to the pivoting fittings.
Durability & Maintenance
The use of powder-coated aluminum and chrome-plated zamak suggests excellent long-term durability. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water should keep it in good condition for years.
Replacement would likely only be necessary in the event of significant impact damage. The Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in is designed for longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no specific accessories or customization options available directly from Taylor Made for this product. However, depending on your boat’s setup, you might consider adding rubber pads between the feet and the windshield frame to prevent scratching or vibration.
It is universally compatible with any boat that has a walk-thru windshield requiring a 16-inch support. You may need to source different screws depending on your boat’s mounting surface.
Pros and Cons of Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in
Pros
- Exceptional Stability: Provides significant support for walk-thru windshields, reducing rattling and vibration.
- Durable Construction: Built with powder-coated aluminum and chrome-plated zamak for long-lasting performance in marine environments.
- Easy Installation: Pivoting fittings allow for flexible mounting options and straightforward setup.
- Trusted Brand: Taylor Made is a reputable name in the marine industry.
- OEM Quality: Often used as original equipment, ensuring a proper fit and reliable performance.
Cons
- Lack of Included Hardware: Mounting screws are not included and must be purchased separately.
- Single Unit Sale: Sold individually, requiring purchase of two units for windshields needing dual supports.
Who Should Buy Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in?
The Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in is perfect for boat owners with walk-thru windshields who are experiencing rattling, instability, or simply want to reinforce their windshield’s structure. It’s especially valuable for those who frequently boat in choppy waters or transport their boats on trailers. Anglers, recreational boaters, and anyone who values a secure and comfortable ride will benefit from this product.
Those who should skip this product are boat owners who have windshields that do not require support bars or those whose windshield support needs are significantly different than the 16-inch length. If your windshield is already adequately supported, this product may not offer much additional benefit.
A must-have accessory is marine-grade stainless steel mounting hardware. It helps to ensure the support bar is securely attached and protected from corrosion.
Conclusion on Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in
The Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in is a well-built and highly effective solution for stabilizing walk-thru windshields on boats. It offers a significant improvement in stability and reduces rattling, making for a more enjoyable and secure boating experience. The powder-coated aluminum construction ensures durability, while the pivoting fittings allow for easy installation.
At a price of $59.79, the value proposition is strong, particularly considering the quality of materials and the peace of mind it provides. While the lack of included mounting hardware is a minor inconvenience, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall value.
I would personally recommend the Taylor Made Windshield Support Bar – 16in to any boat owner looking to improve the stability and longevity of their walk-thru windshield. Invest in a couple of these support bars. It’s a small price to pay for a safer and more comfortable time on the water!