I finally got around to refining my prototype cockpit shade shown in some earlier posts on this thread. I was inspired by Moonstruck's high end, retractable shade by
SureShade. I was hoping for a manual retractable design but due to time constraints, that feature may come in a future version. I needed a cantilevered design to allow fishing. The cost needed to be MUCH less than the SureShade pricing.
This version is shorter (44 inches), utilizes light weight shade fabric ($35 from Costco) and is supported by a single 1/16 inch stainless steel cable from the radar mast. I found an upholstery company that sewed the fabric to spec for $50, so I've got about $100 into this so far.
My aim is that this lightweight, loose-weave fabric and smaller surface area will present lower windage for the lightweight frame. My previous model was too heavy and had too much surface area for the frame so while underway or when the wind kicked up, I'd tie it down with short lines.
The fabric releases from the fwd edge and slides aft along the poles to allow access to the FB ladder.
So now I have a new redneck shade to match my redneck fire hose rail covers.