: Hi Rob,

: I use 1/2" ply for the eyes, and use a generous filet around
: them, have used them for years in 100 degree temps with no
: problems at all, it gets pretty hot in the midwest in the
: summer. Yep they do compromise storage so if you really pack the
: spaces this isn't the ideal.

: On my next boat, one of your biadarkas this winter, not sure if
: it'll be a Firestar or a Northstar yet (one of these days I'll
: call to ask questions) , I'm going to work on putting on
: internal bungies that'll run to a cleat in the cockpit to make
: releasing them easier. Right now I have to pry up an edge, I use
: Nick's finger relief's to gain access, and reach in to unhook
: the bungie.

Bill,

I've used both Magnets and internal bungies on several yaks, and I have to agree with Rob on this one. I've had hooks let go in hot temps too, even when covered with 2 layers of 6 oz glass and lots of surface area. The magnets don't take that much extra to install, and I've never had a problem with them. In fact, they are a great tool to use to keep your wife from using her credit cards. Just set her purse on the hatch cover and no more new CC bills! Just don't tell her what's going on. As for the Leidy bungie/pulley system with a clam cleat, they're more labor intensive to install than magnets, and not very convenient either after awhile, at least according to Ted on his Metakrome site. anyway, just my 2 cents worth from a guy willing to try anything at least once!

Bryan K.

: This biadarka though will be the black one (ebonized) :)

: Bill H.