Doing homework by reading canopy stories on VAF. I noticed there should be a way to clamp canopy to the side rails because as you do that, it simulates the final fit and will show you where else you need to keep trimming for a good fit. Makes sense, I think. Not wanting to pay a lot for 4 inch square alum to cut up for clamps, I found a solution at Lowe's avaition department. Galvanized stud attach brackets. Bought 6 and within 30 minutes all were made. 1. Pound flat the turned down end ears on the clamps. It will add to the base length. You could just cut them off, but that means more work to smooth the edge. Cost $2.20 each. 2. Buy a package of Closet Maid assorted vinyl end caps. $1.60 . 3. Buy a 3/8 x3"x24" trim board $1.68. Cut 4" pieces +/-. 4. Buy #6 x 1/2 wood screws $1.00 6. Buy 10/32 x 2" machine screws. $2.00
One side of the stud bracket has a nailing hole higher than the opposite side. Use the highest hole and tap it 10/32. The tap fits perfectly and you will get about 2 threads. Enough to grip and hold mild clamp pressure.
The ends of the brackets were pounded flat. They had been pointing down.
Tap highest hole 10/32. Put dab of RTV inside vinyl end cap and press it onto threaded machine screw.
Attach wood with 2 #6 x 1/2 screws. Don't need to file pointy ends,but I did. Easy..
