Stored Hypalon RIB

[Texel Tom]

I am considering buying a 5mtr RIB which although brand new has been in storage for 6 years. In fact it's still in the original protective wrapping and to my knowledge has never been inflated other than when it was made.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this? Does the Hypalon or more likely the glue/seams deteriorate if left uninflated for so long?

Help would be appreciated

Thanks

[Dave Cowell]

There shouldn't be a problem with glued seams.

I have seen tubes that have been deflated and rolled up tightly for several years, and they developed a crease that remained as a visible line on the inflated tubes.
Tubes fitted to a hull obviously cant be rolled up but they could have been vacuumed flat and then the Rib shrink wrapped and this could put a crease in the hypalon.

[Phil M]

UV can cause deterioration and discoloration. Assuming it has been stored covered/indoors, not a problem.