Hard Dodger...anyone done it?

T37Chef · **Posted:** 17 Jan 2009 17:38

I'm thinking we'll need to replace the dodger within the next season or two, and considering the cost can be $2000 + I started to consider replacing with a "hard top".

I know they can often look like doo doo. Has anyone done this? Drawbacks? Advantages?

Cheers

tartan37224 · **Joined:** 20 Oct 2006 23:30 **Posts:** 19

Eric Freedman installed a hard dodger when he did his total rebuild of #252 (Kimberlite). It looked fine. He has sold that boat and now owns an Amel 53, but I'm sure he would be glad to share his thoughts on the hard dodger. If you want to try and reach him, drop me a private message and I'll send any contact information I have.

Tom Wells
#224 Higher Porpoise

Falco · **Joined:** 23 Dec 2007 23:08 **Posts:** 42

I recently made a top for a hard dodger for a Halberg-Rassy 37. The boat already had a permanent windshield. The owner sent me some photos once it was installed (he was on the Chesapeake, I am in Florida). In my humble opinion, it looks pretty good.

I have thought of making a hard dodger, too, as my dodger canvas is fading and, as it is never taken down, it may as well be a permanent one.

If you would like a photo of the one we made, send me your e-mail address......falco@stmindustries.com I will send some photos in return.

Falco

VANORA #198
Dunedin, Florida (just north of Clearwater)

glory · **Joined:** 03 Nov 2006 18:49 **Posts:** 15

I threw this together in my garage last winter from some stryrofoam and fiberglass. I think it turned out pretty good. click on the photo for better pic. Barry

Ardea · **Joined:** 19 Mar 2007 16:40 **Posts:** 195

Nice job Barry. Looks great!

T37Chef · **Posted:** 08 Dec 2011 20:26

I like it, alot...how much to make me one? Maybe round some of the edges a little more to mirror some of the softer edges of the deck, but I think you did a great job.

glory · **Joined:** 03 Nov 2006 18:49 **Posts:** 15

Hi, I had to keep the front a little flatter to allow for the windows to be tempered glass and flat. The side window is plexiglass and has more curve to it. I also increased the height so when standing at 6'2" tall I can still see over the top and only have to tilt my head a little to go down below. This extra height forced the lines to change abit from the average dodger look. There is a photo under the storm sail topic that shows the side view. The cost break down was roughly
epoxy and fillers $500
Fiberglass cloth $300
Foam $100
Paint and primers $200
Window plexiglass $300
Supplies $300

About $1700 and a many many hours of sanding and fairing.

solen · **Joined:** 17 Sep 2009 00:00 **Posts:** 34

I love the airy feel of the hard dodger but I need something that can be taken down for offshore.

Has anyone installed a partial windshield like the HR/Najad etc. As it is I folded my dodger up when a zipper went and I have not missed the dim plastic since, I wonder how to get me to work on it?

glory · **Joined:** 03 Nov 2006 18:49 **Posts:** 15

side profile, three years later the hard dodger still looks new.

glory · **Joined:** 03 Nov 2006 18:49 **Posts:** 15

Aft view. click on pick for best view

Tartan37.com

Hard Dodger...anyone done it?

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