Frank posted: "..... Instead of the usual anodized aluminum or stainless for supports they use 4 inch diameter non anodized aluminum pipe and paint it ....I would appreciate any advice as to the soundness of this type of construction. The top seems a little heavy....." Frank, I'd sure be concerned about the looks of a four inch diameter pipe that high up on a 43ft boat....Hopefully you can judge proportions from a picture which includes a top & a boat. The actual construction (fabrication) depends on the supplier...good components don't necessarily insure a quality result...try seeing an older top made by the supplier if possible. Paint over regular Al MAY not weather well...don't know. Atlantic Towers, NJ, (with online site) also makes hardtops and is a big operation with good reputation in my area....they use 1.5" anodized Al ...They quoted me for my boat last year... I ...about $5K I think The quarter inch plywood should not be a problem..it will be greatly outweighed by the fiberglass resin and Al pipe... good luck, Rob BRueckner