I just purchased a new to me 1999 Alumnacraft Dominator 165 tiller and I need a cover. I would like to have the cover on the boat when trailering, I am balking a bit on spending $600-$700 on a custom fit cover, so I am wondering if any of the “semi-custom fit” covers would work out OK or if I should just bite the bullet.
If it’s just for when towing the cheap ones might be ok. However if you want to use it when you store the boat outside I might want to buy a good cover.
Not sure where you are located, but Top Gun in Shakopee did a fantastic job on mine and it was under $600.
Not sure what you’re looking for, but I have a 1996 Alumacraft Tournament Pro 170 and bought this cover for it. The cover it a little long and wide but it’s the only one that fit decent with the length of my boat and having a bow mount trolling motor. I would think it would work for your boat, I haven’t tried trailering with it yet but I wouldn’t hesitate.
The big issue with trailering and covers is that if it doesn’t fit nice and tight the wind will cause it to flap and damage will most likely occur. Either rubbing paint off the boat and or motor if the cover is made of a quality material, or the cover will tear. After market are always a risk, but if they workout you will save some money. Keep in mind not all custom covers are equal either. If you do go that route, definitely ask for members experience with different makers. Better yet with the same model you have.
$200 every 2-3 years
$600 last 12+ years
Spend the money and be a happy boat owner.
There is a guy on face book market place doing side jobs for $200-3oo less then his family awing business charges.
The big issue with trailering and covers is that if it doesn’t fit nice and tight the wind will cause it to flap and damage will most likely occur.
I have the linked cover and have had all the issues mojogunter cites. The first I bought was just barely too small. Got the next size up and it flaps in the wind A LOT.
$200 every 2-3 years
$600 last 12+ years
Spend the money and be a happy boat owner.
This ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^.
Trailering with a badly fit cover is exactly what tears it up. Good fit = cover that lasts.
Your profile doesn’t say where you are, but if you’re in the TC Metro, Lakes Area Canvas is one of the best and their prices are fair.
Whatever you do, get going on it NOW. There aren’t many good places anymore and the good ones book up.
Grouse
I’m in Arcadia, WI.
Bigcrappie, do you know the name of the guy on Facebook?
Justin Colbath works for Colbath Upholstery.
There is a shop in Hudson and his covers are great. He had one in that he had to resew because the thread rotted out after 12 years but the rest of the material was good.
He is also less than everyone else when i was looking.
The Dowco semi-custom boat cover is $686. Might as well go custom.
I would agree – if you are going to pull the boat with the cover you need one that fits perfect and snaps in place. Otherwise, don’t use a cover at all.
Lakes Canvas in Chisago City has done some good work for me in the past.
I’m in Arcadia, WI.
I’m in Fountain City, across the hill from you. I had mine done at rite-way canvass in winona mn. They did an excellent job and I trailer with no issues.
I bought a Cabelas semi-custom ratchet strap boat cover and it’s worked flawless for travel and storage for 11 years now. It was under $200 (sale price) but it appears since BPS took over I can’t find it listed.
Since your boat is an ’99, if it were me I’d forget the custom canvas and get a descent semi-custom fit for 1/2 to 1/4 the price. The work just great!
There is a shop in Hudson and his covers are great. He had one in that he had to resew because the thread rotted out after 12 years but the rest of the material was good.
He is also less than everyone else when i was looking.
onestout, What is the name of the shop or guy? I live in the area and I need to have my cover adjusted fit around the kicker motor I added.
Wyoming canvas does an excellent job and their custom covers aren’t out of line.
WS
Boat cover truths
If it is not custom made it will flap, if it flaps it will not last
If it flaps and has dust or dirt on it you will have an abrasive cloth that is scuffing your boats finish while towing or in the wind
Strap on covers cannot be used at the dock Snap on covers can.
Straps need to be adjusted if your boat is sitting a couple inches off on the trailer from when you initially set them.
A good custom snap on cover will shed all the rain strapons usually won’t.
Hundred dollar boat, hundred dollar cover (Similar to a $50 dollar head only needs a $50 helmet)
Strap on covers cannot be used at the dock Snap on covers can.
False. If it has a draw string and fits well, it works great on the water.
There are pros and cons to each. I had snaps on my first cover on a crestliner, didn’t like it. It was impossible to put on in the cold and the snaps would break when taking it off in the cold.
I had to look because i can never remember the name, it was Keuhls canvas. The spelling may be a bit off, it is near exit 4.
Thanks for all the great responses.
I have heard good things about DNP Canvas in Cambridge. I have not used them personally but know a few that have that have had nothing but good to say.
Look for a dowco.
I plan on getting a cover and stopped at Mac’s Seat Covers in Eau Claire. They recommend snaps on the water but if trailering or storing outside to use straps. There number is 715-834-1912 and contact names of Lee or Ted. Give them a call.
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