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I've replaced all of the teak, the RPS seat, the rod holders and the cooler and front cushions on my 1988 Montauk 17. Now I am realizing that without a Bimini top, my ability to use the boat in Florida is limited because of the hot summers here. I wanted to add a Bimini, but I see a lot of conflicting information out there. Most seller websites list the standard Bimini for a Montauk as 67-72" wide, by 60" high by 6' length. I would like to go to an 8' length top but I am bothered by the 67-72" width. Wouldn't that stick out at the corners when folded over the bow rail? Also, does anyone have experience with a Bimini with a rear strut to support it?

Finally, I would like to cover my RPS seat, but the only ones that I see for sale fit the 2003 and newer Montauk seats which are fiberglass or acrylic construction. Would the dimensions be close enough for the cover to fit?