Dinghy tube cosmetic repair

[JohnEasley]

The previous owner of our 2005 Rendova tender had a tendency to run the bow up under the swim platform on the momma boat. As a result, the essentially-cosmetic tape strips are a bit chewed up.


We contacted a local inflatable repair shop and they quoted us $200 to use adhesive to attach two new strips. Wow! (I need to get into the boat repair business)

We would like to find some 2” wide strip material to adhesive on and cover these scuffed up areas. Any suggestions on sources, materials, or processes?

We thought about getting a couple of these West Marine dinghy seat handles, turning them vertically, and gluing them on. They would cover the old strips and the handle material would be tougher in case we bumped into anything.

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71hs0DFYPBL._AC_SY450_.jpg

The West Marine version has gray handles that would blend well with our tubes.

Another option would be West Marine’s liquid rubber in gray. Tape off the areas and carefully paint this one, brushing until it’s smooth and no sags.

https://www.westmarine.com/buy/west-marine--liquid-rubber-inflatable-boat-repair--P010_301_007_508

Any thoughts, experiences, or guidance appreciated.

John

 

[jungpeter]

Rendova's are first-class tenders, made with hypalon tubes. While it's easy to butch up ANY repair to your satisfaction, using any sort of goop you can find on the WWW (West Marine included), you may find it cost-effective in the long run to pay your local inflatable repair facility to do a permanent repair that is in keeping with the nature of the tender itself.

The person to whom you eventually sell the tender may agree.

Regards,

Pete

ps-that isn't a cosmetic tape strip. It's designed to protect the VERY EXPENSIVE tubes from just the sort of damage you describe.

 

[DCDC]

Our AB dinghy is 15+ years old. During last year’s Bahamas trip we swore to replace it for this year’s cruising season. It leaked air out and water in. Considered taking it to a repair shop but decided to renovate in our carport. Added several patches, re-glued rubrail and underwater tube seams. Re-bed the bow-eye and caulked all screwed fittings. Not pretty but this season used it extensively with no problems.

I think the key was the glue and pre-glue prep. I ordered the two part contact cement from NRS. Expensive, but proved to be worth it. Type depends on your tube material. I followed their instructions as closely as possible.

https://www.nrs.com/category/3202/rafting/inflatable-repair

Good luck.