SureShade RTX Service manual

SURESHADE
PO Box 51294
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Tel: [phone]
International: 215-673-2307
www.sureshade.com
The following instructions detail how to properly install
SureShade RTX on a hardtop for DIY or aftermarket
installations.
SureShade RTX Pull-Out Shade can also be installed
aftermarket on a hardtop, arch, tower or T-Top.
Installation instructions will vary per application.
Page 1 of 6
TOOLS & SUPPLIES:
•SureShade RTX
•Tape measure
•Drill motor and 3/8-inch bit
•Adjustable wrench
•Allen wrenches (1/8 and
3/16 inches)
•Phillips screwdriver
•Marine sealant
Approximate Time: 3 hours
Illustrations provided
by Tim Barker - Boating Magazine
RTXINSTALL-HARDTOP-0518
RTX Pull-Out Shade
Hardtop Installation Instructions
S U R E S H A D E T E C H N I C A L D O C U M E N T A T I O N

SureShade RTX –Hardtop Installation Instructions
Page 2 of 6
1. Measure Width
Each RTX is custom-built to match the width and curvature (if any) of
your top. Be aware that the outside width includes two stationary
actuators with a pair of mounting clamps. These actuators require an
area 4 inches wide by 18 inches long to mount properly on each side
under the top. The roller and crossbars required another 7½ inches
when retracted, but these elements need not be positioned
completely under the top.
Make sure the area aft is clear of obstructions that might interfere
with the 4½-foot-long shade.
Illustration by Tim Barker - Boating Magazine

SureShade RTX –Hardtop Installation Instructions
Page 2 of 6
2. Determine Camber
The RTX’s cross members, including the canvas roller, can be
cambered to match the curvature of the top. Determine the
camber height by placing a straightedge on the underside of the
top and measuring the distance to the top from the center point.
You might need mounting spacers for the actuators to clear the
hardtop’s overhang or other obstructions, such as rod holders.
SureShade offers these spacers in ½-inch increments up to 3 inches.
Once you have the dimensions, place your order with SureShade
or an authorized dealer.
Illustration by Tim Barker - Boating Magazine

SureShade RTX –Hardtop Installation Instructions
Page 2 of 6
3. Mount the Actuators
Position the actuators and mounting brackets on the underside of the
hardtop, making sure these cylinders are parallel. Keeping the roller
and crossbars attached at this point helps to ensure the mounting
width ends up correct. Ask a friend to hold one side while you hold
the other. Mark and drill the holes through the hardtop. Remove the
roller and crossbars, then through-bolt each actuator (apply marine
sealant to prevent leaks) using the supplied stainless-steel 5/16-inch
bolts, nuts and backing plates.
Illustration by Tim Barker - Boating Magazine

SureShade RTX –Hardtop Installation Instructions
Page 2 of 6
4. Attach Roller and Crossbars
With the actuators installed, you can reattach the roller and crossbars.
Loosen and rotate the roller clamp on the actuator to line up with the
roller mounting screws at each end of the roller. You might need to
loosen the mounting clamps for the actuators to rotate each actuator
to get the midcrossbar and pull-bar connecting screws to line up
properly. Once everything is lined up, re-tighten the mounting brackets
and roller clamps and install the mounting screws for the roller and bars
on each actuator.
Illustration by Tim Barker - Boating Magazine

SureShade RTX –Hardtop Installation Instructions
Page 2 of 6
5. Tension the Roller
To enable the SureShade to retract properly and remain taut when
deployed, the canvas roller is spring-loaded. You might need to add
tension or “preload” the roller to make sure that the SureShade
assembly operates correctly. To do this, unzip the canvas from the
outer bar and rotate both the roller and canvas several revolutions as
needed toward the crossbars, then re-zip the canvas to the outer bar.
Do not rotate the canvas in toward the hardtop; this will distort the
internal springs.
Illustration by Tim Barker - Boating Magazine

SureShade RTX –Hardtop Installation Instructions
Page 2 of 6
Test Operation
To test the RTX extension, center yourself in the middle of the push/pull
bar for even leverage. Lift the framework up and aft to reduce friction
for easier movement and extend until all locking pins are engaged.
To retract, lift the framework up and out one side at a time to release
the locking pins on each side. Center yourself and lift the framework
up while pushing it in to reduce friction for easier movement until fully
retracted.
Illustration by Tim Barker - Boating Magazine
© 2018 Rodan Enterprises LLC t/a SureShade