question on zip down enclosure

[ivorcouple]

heya guys gotta a question ...have a 2004 1802 trophy wa it has the bimini top with the full enclosure ...plastic and canvas...will it hurt to put it on and leave it out in the winter....will it hurt the plastic panels?....reason is ive tried using a tarp for cockpit protection which isnt working good ..plus i see a lot of boats docked with there enclosure on looks like winter storage...any experience with this? thanxs...mike

[b8 boy]

The more it is exposed to the weather the sooner it will break down. I got a big(20' x 60') tarp of real heavy vinyl in the trading post for $45. I cover the boat for the trees falling and the spring blooms. It is awkward and heavy but keeps it clean and the enclosure will last longer. Martin

[Cool Breeze]

you can leave it on- for the plastic i would use some 210 plastic cleaner and polish both inside and outside (should use it every 2 or 3 months anyways) and leave them in a fairly protected area. Use 303 protectant for the canvas (sunbrella?) 1 or 2 coats will keep it looking good for years. If you decide you want to remove the plastic store it laying flat with some sheets in between each panel. Just dont fold it- hope that helps- craig

[SANTEES TOY]

ivorcouple
I have a 2302 Trophy Pro and my enclosure and this is the 3rd winter with it on i do keep my boat in the water year round no trees around . I have not had any problems yet.

[Cool Breeze]

Martin got me to thinking that if your enclosure isnt strataglas (which if it came with a package when you bought your boat) its probably not. I would take it off and store it using the 210 or Plexus and cleaning/polishing it first like above. If it is strataglas- you can leave it on without much worry-

[ivorcouple]

yea im not sure if its strata or not but it is the one orig. bought with the boat whats the life span typically on them anyways...wander price to replace?

[ivorcouple]

what about the best place to get the polish? auto parts store? thanks mike

[Cool Breeze]

west marine/boaters world have it- doubt you will find it at a auto parts store but you never know- im sure you can buy it online at one of their stores also

[ivorcouple]

thanks guys for the help...mike

[bruce55]

The extra exposure will shorten its life but there are plenty of companies around that can replace them.