SureShade MTF manual sunshade systems require regular care and maintenance to ensure the system continues to function properly
Due to the nature of the marine environment – sun, wind, rain and especially saltwater – it is common practice for a boat owner to conduct certain inspections of the boat and its accessories.
The SureShade MTF Manual Shade requires special routine maintenance:
- Regular & annual canvas care and inspection
- Occasional lubrication of parts
Follow the below steps to ensure your manual shade system is maintained and fully functional for years to come.
Boaters must ensure canvas thread does not deteriorate due to marine conditions.
Canvas Inspection and Care
Boaters should be sure to inspect the canvas at full extension to make sure there are no deteriorating portions of the canvas (canvas rips, broken threads, etc).
The actuators for the MTF manual sunshade system are spring-loaded and controlled extension of the shade is dependent on the canvas, roller and gearbox. Therefore, it’s important to be sure that the canvas is in good condition to maintain proper movement of the framework.
Basic Canvas Care includes:
- General, light cleaning with a hose on a monthly basis with clear water to remove debris
- A thorough cleaning every 2-3 years, which may include fabric guard and/or mildew treatments
- Conduct an annual inspection of your canvas to ensure that all threading is intact
- A pull test on the thread will confirm that threading has not become dry rotted from the elements
MTF Manual Boat Shade Lubrication
We recommend using a lithium grease lubricant (such as WD-40) to alleviate any cranking issues (extending or retracting the shade with the hand lever) that may occur over time with the manual shade.
On the port side canvas roller clamp, there is a black plastic bushing where the roller shaft turns (see image to the right) – lubricate between the brushing and the roller shaft.
If you are experiencing cranking issues, be sure to also check that the canvas is centered on the roller, as the canvas may shift over time and could also contribute to any difficulty in cranking the shade.
Additional Important Care Guidance:
- SureShade does not recommend removing canvas from the SureShade roller system as it may be difficult to properly re-install or it could damage the rollers.
- Under no circumstances should the canvas supplied with any SureShade system ever be placed in a washing machine.
More Customer Resources
Reference the below customer care and maintenance guides to ensure the longevity of your SureShade sunshade system.
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You Can’t Own a Boat Without Having a SureShade!
Love SureShade. SureShade solves our family's sun problems by providing coverage for the entire boat with ease. Setup is easy and quick, and nothing obstructs the fishing poles. I can even leave it out while underway - hit 30 knots without retracting the shades. Thank you for making this product a reality and supporting DIYers with older boats.
The Design is Very Simple to Operate and Maintain
SureShade is just perfect for my boat - very well finished and it looks like an original part of the boat. Our family is happy to have a SureShade on board all the time to make sure I always have a shade to enjoy the day. I am completely happy and satisfied with your product!
If it Doesn’t have a SureShade, it’s Just Another Boat!
We are so happy with our SureShade shade system and how essential it has become for our boat. As far as we are concerned, if it doesn't have a SureShade, it's not a boat!
I Wouldn’t Own a Boat Without a SureShade!
We choose SureShade for its design, ease of operation and great looks. With just a push of a button we can go from full sun in the cockpit to shade in a matter of seconds.
Enhances the Value of My Boat
I love the fact that there are no straps or supports that might interfere with other activities on board. Aside from being very functional, I think it looks well integrated and enhances the value of the boat.
A Wonderful Addition!
SureShade was a wonderful addition to my boat and over the 2600 miles from Palm Beach to Lake Michigan I was asked at least a dozen times by boaters along the way about the shade.
I strongly recommend SureShade – don’t hesitate, just do it!
Our SureShade top turned out even better than expected! The shade now covers for full extent of the quarterdeck, with no side poles to get in the way of the fishing rods. It’s just a simple little exercise of winding the handle for the telescopic poles, and Hey Presto – instant shade.
Absolutely Necessary!
Absolutely necessary when grilling on our Boston Whaler 370 Outrage. One of the most important additions to our boat hands down. Would highly recommend an electronic SureShade to anyone who loves boating as much as we do.