Aluminum Hard Top repair - upper chesapeake
 

I searched a couple older threads for similar suggestions, hoping I can get some up-to-date recommendations.

I just bought a new-to-me '03 Hydra-Sports walkaround with a hard top. During the sea trial we noticed a crack almost all the way around one of the supports.

https://i.imgur.com/gYZmI55.jpg?1

After a little negotiation decided to move ahead with the sale so now I'm looking for someone who can weld that shut, and possibly add a gusset plate to reinforce it a bit.

Boat is currently located in Elkton, MD. Bonus points if the person is mobile, boat has nearly a 9' beam so isn't technically supposed to be on the road without permits.

Miller marine Fabrication in North East, MD.

He's a fantastic welder, not sure if he is mobile or not, but I wouldn't worry about pulling around a 9 ft beam.

Just bought a 2004 HS wa with the same problem. One side already had a patch weld and the other has a crack . Both same spot . I think I'm gonna get some brackets welded in between where it all meets right there.

Gussets. Then the crack will move up. Good luck.

Possibly. I’ve seen where folks have added additional bracing to limit side-to-side movement. We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.

second for Miller Marine, did a great job on my t-top repair

Hm. Did they go out of business or something? The only number I can find online (and their website) is disconnected.

Is this the company you are trying to call?
Miller Marine Fabrication
410 287 0303

Yes. Got a message that the number was changed, disconnected, not in service. Just called again and got the same message.

interesting, I haven't talked to him in a few years. Isn't that old of a guy, wonder what the story is.

Could always drive down to his shop.

bay boat works yard will know what's going on

410-287-8113

A little out of your area, but try Carter Fabrications in Millersville, MD 410-987-9397. I recently used them to fix a small t-top crack and make a small section of aluminim tube with a 90 degree bend. They are nice people, the quality of work was good, and the price was fair.

Bk fabrication in Preston just built a top for me. They did a great job. They actually answer the phone and do what they say they’re going to do which is rare now a days 🤦‍♂️ You can find them on Facebook or call them. 410-310-4292

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.the...60fb3a1b2f.jpg
I had a similar problem with mine. I took mine to tex cool weld in Baltimore, it only cost $150 (they welded four cracks and put on two gussets). It could look better with some grinding and polishing but I told them I didn't care about looks. I didn't think it would hold up but I've pounded plenty of waves since then and its still holding up