Open Pro 650 Tubeset - (very) used set available

toe72 · 29 July 2015, 17:26

I finally bit the bullet and bought a new tube for the Zodiac 650 (2001)- I'll be in Boston MA area next week with it and would be willing to give the old tube to someone who wants it. Ping me. It is on last legs and needs a bit of TLC, but holds air. The bolt rope has detached (again) but could be repaired. The tops are down to threads... ugly but functional, I suppose.

I'm going to be in Salem and can meet you there if interested in a project. Otherwise going in dumpster somewhere--sadly

Send me a message if interested. I'm not looking for any hassles. This is a deal for someone.

zip · 29 July 2015, 18:26

How much the new tubes set you back?

toe72 · 29 July 2015, 18:39

Zip - more than I want to disclose! ...they range $7-10k

Tough decision, but the boat will be new after the change and give us 12+ yrs before having to replace again (I hope)... store your boat in a dark cave, is the message.

office888 · 29 July 2015, 20:44

Quote:

Originally Posted by toe72

Zip - more than I want to disclose! ...they range $7-10k

Tough decision, but the boat will be new after the change and give us 12+ yrs before having to replace again (I hope)... store your boat in a dark cave, is the message.

I'm guessing you had PVC tubes on your Pro Open?

The new tubeset will be Hypalon/Neoprene...hence the cost. 20+ years should be no problem as long as you pay attention to the inflation. #1 tubeset killer I've fixed is due to underinflation.

Zodiac's North America division discontinued PVC tubesets for all the big premium boats...

toe72 · 29 July 2015, 20:48

What is worse? Over or under inflation? I will be using 303 and covering the boat when practical!

office888 · 29 July 2015, 20:56

Quote:

Originally Posted by toe72

What is worse? Over or under inflation? I will be using 303 and covering the boat when practical!

Underinflation. It chafes the rear seam until it blows out. Welded PVC is less susceptible, but it can still be a problem.

The adhesive used by Zodiac is a special Bostik glue...rated for a minimum 12 psi temporary overpressure. Inflating to 3.48 psi and having the sun heat it up to 3.8 psi isn't going to make a huge difference. It's not recommended, but let's put it this way : I've fixed plenty of boats with blown seams due to underinflation...never due to overinflation.