Old rub-rails

[hfmckevitt]

As with most of us we have old black rub-rails on our 45’ MV. Every time we wash the boat or heavy rains we have the back run down sides of the boat. Other then complete replacement, does anyone down of a product that can be put on them to help stop this. When we seat with our legs over the side we get the on the back of our legs
Help
Thank you
Henry
Linda Lee

 

[Shrew]

I don't think it isu just coming from the surface. The rubber rubrail isn't, itself, watertight. The black will be potentially leaking from everywhere. You'd have to remove it and coat the entire thing and re-insert it.

I don't know of a commercial product for this.

 

[Comodave]

If it is an old rubber rail, it is probably the rubber brealing down. I don’t know what you could coat the rubber with that would stick. If it is a PVC rub rail, you might be able to wipe it well with acetone and then paint it with some sort of plastic paint. What is the rub rail made out of?

 

[Bacchus]

My guess is it is a layer of rubber affected by UV similar to gelcoat "chalk".
Haven't done this and would suggest a test in an inconspicuous area...
I would try to remove a layer either by sanding w a fine sandpaper and a block of foam rubber or try abrading w an abrasive scotch brite pad and then a coat of 303 protectant. You might rub the rail w a piece of white cloth before and after as an indicator of how effective it has been.

 

[FF]

Black tire paint from an auto supply might work for a year ot two?

 

[sdowney717]

scrub it with soap and water rinse and let dry. Then spray on Aerospace 303 protectant, will seal the surface.

https://www.amazon.com/303-30306-Aerospace-Protectant-Furniture/dp/B000XBCURW

 

[sunchaser]

Or just replace the rubber. Or better yet evaluate alternatives to the specific rubber you have. Yes, there are better products. A walk around a large marina will show all sorts of options. Many commercial fishing boats have some industrial strength rubber rub rails. We have SS overlays on our rails.

If you could post a picture with a ruler alongside, you'd likely get some doable alternative suggestions.