adapting our canopy

[thamesS23]

I need to get some repairs done to our canopy on our S23 (needs re-stitching in some areas), but I would also like to change it slightly if possible.
I would ideally like to split it in half down the middle at the front (in-between the two clear areas on the pic)

I would like to split it and have maybe a new zip join put it, so that when cruising (used on the river thames), i can open up just one side when the weather isn't to good and just flip it over, as oppossed to currently having to undo the whole front. I am hoping this will come in handy when having to berth or go through locks, as the clear panels, although fine to see through when cruising along at slow speeds, are actually not that great to look through when covered in rain and trying to do close quarter manouvers.
Anyone know if this could be done, and if so, would it cause any problems?

 

[RobWales]

Should be an easy job by a competent canvas co....
My Sunseeker has the split front exactly as you explained.

 

[thamesS23]

does the zip on the outside have any sort of cover / flap on it, to stop direct water contact. All the other zips on our canopy have a velcro type flap to go over them onced zipped up. Do you think this would this be needed?

 

[Nick_H]

You can do pretty much anything you like with them.

As an example, i'm considering having a zip around the entire base of the canopy, about 1" up from the bottom. The idea is that instead of having to clamber round the outside of the boat to attach the base of the canopy, I can just attach a thin strip of material to the fixing points, then zip the canopy into place.

I'm not suggesting you should do this, just pointing out that it's not unusual to modify the canopy to make it better for you

 

[Andrew_Fanner]

Can anyone advise on zip repairs, one of mine has lost a tooth and require a bit of "wangling" to zip across the gap. Is that fixable, new zip time or live with it? New zip may be expensive enough to select live with it of course!

 

[rafiki_]

My Sunline 31 has a zip in the centre giving a left and right panel as you indicate. No cover but absolutely water tight. Works very well. Any competant repairer will do this for you, and make the other repairs.

 

[thamesS23]

cheers for all the help and advice

 

[Nick_H]

No, a new zip will cost about £30 to have fitted, at a guess.

 

[nicks]

Our fitters should be able to do this for you.