I purchased a 2012 2575 QCW last year (first boat - took it out a few times, and it's amazing). It had <80hrs on it (legit), and was in excellent condition. The only exception was the cover - it was 12yrs old, and had become brittle.
I'm looking to replace it. Local shops are charging around $2500USD but need the boat delivered/picked-up (etc). I called Tumacs, and they quoted $2200USD (and had a faster turn-around time), however I would have to do the snaps myself - so I am guessing that that would work-out to $2500USD all-in, once my time/tools are factored-in.
Three questions:
- The local canvas shop swears by Sunbrella. Bennington (and Tumacs) no longer use Surlast, and have offered EcoElite material (or Sunbrella for a 30% upcharge). From what I read on this forum, Sunbrella and Surlast seem to be generally acceptable - but nobody has commented on EcoElite (and I can't find much online either). Can anyone provide some advice?
- When I order a new cover, are there any options/upgrades I should request? I have heard of people adding zippered access 'flaps' for side/front entry (i.e. lining-up with the swing-gates). Also, I will probably add new support poles just because they are a cheap add-on, and I have misplaced one of the old ones already... Just curious if there is anything else I should consider?
Many thanks to everyone in advance!
I'm looking to replace it. Local shops are charging around $2500USD but need the boat delivered/picked-up (etc). I called Tumacs, and they quoted $2200USD (and had a faster turn-around time), however I would have to do the snaps myself - so I am guessing that that would work-out to $2500USD all-in, once my time/tools are factored-in.
Three questions:
- The local canvas shop swears by Sunbrella. Bennington (and Tumacs) no longer use Surlast, and have offered EcoElite material (or Sunbrella for a 30% upcharge). From what I read on this forum, Sunbrella and Surlast seem to be generally acceptable - but nobody has commented on EcoElite (and I can't find much online either). Can anyone provide some advice?
- When I order a new cover, are there any options/upgrades I should request? I have heard of people adding zippered access 'flaps' for side/front entry (i.e. lining-up with the swing-gates). Also, I will probably add new support poles just because they are a cheap add-on, and I have misplaced one of the old ones already... Just curious if there is anything else I should consider?
Many thanks to everyone in advance!