Question about Bugeye bows

[ichthos]

Just a few questions on the Bugeye top frame. Where it fits into the top frame bracket, there is metal to metal contact.Is there some kind of rubber fitting that surrounds the hole the frame fits into? If not, how do you stop the bracket from rattling and cutting into the frame? Any help is appreciated.
Kevin

 

[61frogeye]

There is nothing other than the tubular metal brackets. When the top is "up" the fabric pulls so hard on the frame (or should) that the frame won't move much, if at all.

With the top removed and the frame collapsed and stored backward in the tubular brackets, it could rattle. AH supplied the BE with a small leather belt strap that wraps and tightens around the frame center when the top is removed to keep the frame from moving around.

If you would like a picture I will take one later today and post it.

 

[Trevor Jessie]

Isn't there also rubber bumpers for the frame when it is in the stowed location?

 

[Whitephrog]

In the stowed position there is a rubber buffer(p/n 2H5905). None in the raised position.

 

[smaceng]

Yes, the rubber bumper is at the bottom, with the bracket mounted on the rear bulkhead. One still needs the leather strap at the top to secure it to the inside of the leading edge of the boot.
Here is what Whitephrog referenced to: the strap.
Scott in ca

 

[smaceng]

The issue that I do not like is that every time one puts the end of the bows into the bottom bracket hole, it rubs off some of the paint. Has anyone found a way around this, other than just leaving it under my bed, which really does work well.
Scott in CA

 

[Trevor Jessie]

Scott, that gives it the authentic look.

 

[ichthos]

I blasted and painted the bows only to find the paint is already wearing off in the bracket area. I am trying to keep things as stock as original, but I had thought about drilling the hole a little larger in the bracket and putting a rubber insert in. I forgot about the strap (Whitefrog gave me the source, and I do have one.)I also forgot about the rubber bumper at the bottom. I think that will stop the rattle, but don't see how this will stop wear in the bracket area. Even though I will be installing a top (more for surprise rainfall), so I will leave the top bows in all the time.
Kevin