Is this a UV-damaged rubbing strake?

JonnyR · 31 July 2018, 16:06

Hi. I've noticed the rubbing strake on the bow has deteriorated really quickly this season. This section of the bow gets the sun so I reckon it must be caused by UV which is causing the plastic to break down in some way. On hot days, the surface is sticky which hardens when it gets colder.
Does anyone have any ideas on a) how to clean it and b) prevent it from happening in the future? I have a nasty feeling it's not going to be easy!
Many thanks.

Nos4r2 · 31 July 2018, 17:02

The good news is it's quick AND easy. The bad news is breathing the stuff in...

Wipe it with MEK. It'll come up very quickly. DON'T stick your fingers on it for a few minutes unless you want prints on it

JonnyR · 01 August 2018, 08:07

Thank you Nos4r2! That's cheered me up and I'll get some MEK to try (on an inconspicuous area first!) and report back.

Nos4r2 · 01 August 2018, 10:00

Quote:

Originally Posted by JonnyR

Thank you Nos4r2! That's cheered me up and I'll get some MEK to try (on an inconspicuous area first!) and report back.

Use thick RUBBER (not nitrile) gloves while using it. MEK damages nitrile. Make sure you're in a well ventilated area and make sure your rag isn't going to leave bits behind.

Unhook that clip from it or it'll deform and stay like it.

See here for my results with it:-

http://www.rib.net/forum/f8/ballisti...tml#post542518

JonnyR · 01 August 2018, 13:05

Thanks (again!) Nos4r2 for your advice.

Nice RIB by the way!!