Bimini EZ fold system problems.

[Snowman8]

I just had the EZ fold system installed on my 2014 R5 this spring and I am having trouble with the locking mechanism breaking. The first time out on the water the port side lock would allow the bimini to drop so I brought the boat back to my dealer and they replaced that side. Now today the starboard side dropped, this is the 4th trip out with the boat... The first time when the port side would drop it would cause the other side to release because it was taking all the weight of the bimini. I’m hoping that the starboard side was maybe just weakened by the bad port side latch but I am wondering if anyone else has had trouble with their EZ fold system on the R series? I am thinking about asking my dealer if they would just replace both sides and start over fresh with two new locks and I am really hoping this wasn’t a big waste of money!

I haven’t tried taking the latch apart to see how it locks itself to the rail but it would be interesting to know how it works if anyone has had theirs apart.

[Snowman73]

Had this happens as well; Both sides. I just took it to the dealer and the said they would put in new parts. Not sure exactly what that meant. Everything has worked since. Not very helpful information but I would just take it back to the dealer if you just had it done.

[atlandrew]

Can I ask you folks - what was the parts cost to add the EZ fold and did you DIY or have the dealer install?

We just purchased an R5 without the EZ fold and it's in a dry stack where we have to put the bimini up/down each time to use it. I cannot get the included thumb screws to work because of the angle of the bimini pole and the attachment on the boat so I'm using a hex key every time. I'm worried I'm going to drop the hex key and bolt into the water at some point here!

[sailor55330]

I inquired on a retrofit about 18 months ago. I can't remember if the dealer said $800 or $1400. Either way, not a cheap upgrade as I guess it involves new rear uprights on the non-ez fold models.

[Snowman8]

Well I was quoted just under $800 for parts & install, it cost me $1500... I guess I should have gotten that one in writing! Break Out Another Thousand! Lol

[atlandrew]

Thanks folks. The dealer here in ATL quoted me $880 for parts + shipping. BOAT is right

[scottsyott]

Just as an FYI, Cobalt doesn't offer the EZFold anymore, due to warranty isues, at least according to my salesman. I thought I wanted it until the option disappeared.