Rigging a Bimini,

[rchiare1]

My 1989 CP-16 CB came with a Bimini from the dealer, and it has yet to be raised. In fact it has not even been unwrapped.
Are there any instructions on how to rig it ?
I've never seen a Bimini actually used on any sailboat. Can it still be used while under sail?
I'd appreciate any pointers or suggestions.
Bob

[Paul]

Hey Bob.  Does the boat have the bimini tracks installed?  Is the bimini attached to the boat already?  If yes, then you should also see some eye straps mounted forward and aft of the track.  The bimini will have lines to stretch/attach those lines to the eye straps.

As long at the boom clears the bimini, you should b e able to sail with it rigged.  you may also be able to adjust the bimini for and aft for a proper set up.

[multimedia_smith]

Here are a couple of pics of my setup... I made my own bimini because I couldn't find one small enough to be able to see the sails... and mostly I have only one or two other "moveable ballasts" (crew) aboard.  I'm not sure if the full size links will work, so I'm including the small links as well.  The nice thing about mounting it on the genoa tracks is that it can be moved fore and aft at will. 
Cheers
Dale

http://www.com-pacowners.com/gallery2/displayimage.php?pid=564&fullsize=1
http://www.com-pacowners.com/gallery2/displayimage.php?album=49&pos=27

http://www.com-pacowners.com/gallery2/displayimage.php?pid=561&fullsize=1
http://www.com-pacowners.com/gallery2/displayimage.php?album=49&pos=28

[rchiare1]

I have tracks amd npw I lnow how to set it up. I just needed to know what to look for. 
I still have reservations about leaving the Bimini up while under sail but I think I can try it on a com day, and using the iron wind see how it reacts in a breeze.

Don't misunderstand me, I don't see a lot of need to sail with a roof over my head. My spouse is very fair and really can't take much sun so if I want her to come along the Bimini makes it possible.

Thanks for the help.