Repair of the inflatable boat

modemon · 17 July 2013, 15:06

Hello!
I have a 2.8 meter Inflatable boat with a glassfiber hull.
The boat is now terribly ripped on one side on in the front, please see attached pictures.

Is there anything I can do?
The boat works perfecly with a 10hp Johson Seahorse so would not want to throw it away..

Thanks in advance,

Poly · 17 July 2013, 15:41

That can be patched. It might be tricky if it is on the shaped part at the front and I think to do it properly you will need to remove the rubbing strake (grey bit) first. First task is to work out if it is PVC / Hypalon / Polyurethane. Then get the right materials and search the forum for instructions.

modemon · 17 July 2013, 16:01

Thanks Poly, glad to hear that it is doable!
I can't seem to find any serial-plate (make/model) on the boat so I guess I have to take it to someone who knows and ask what type of material it is made of.

Poly · 17 July 2013, 16:08

there is advice on the forum for determining pvc v's hypalon. Colour of the fabric on the inside is a major indicator and then some tricks with wiping with solvent to see if comes off on a white cloth, if I remember right? I am on a rubbish internet connection here or I would find it for you...

EnglishLes · 17 July 2013, 16:38

Link: PVC or Hypalon? | Polymarine Paints, Adhesives, Parts & Accessories

S4Simon · 17 July 2013, 23:25

My guess is PVC, but the links above will prove the fabric type. From the size of the hole you will need an inner repair. If you were to apply an outer repair only the fabric would be under too much stress and the repair would fail quite quickly under pressure.

Here's a guide I made a few years back that will assist in the repair process.

The rubbing strake will be cause a few issues and will have to be pulled back. I'd say the strake is thermobonded, so heat will assist in removal here. The outer patch should extend 1 to 1.5 inches passed the damaged fabric on either side, so say 10 to 11 inches in width and approx 7 inches in height - as a guide.

Large Hole Repair | Inflatable Boat Repairs

Peter_C · 18 July 2013, 03:01

I am amazed to read the professionals saying good to go on a repair. To me the photo makes it look like it is severe sun damage. How is the rest of the boats fabric?

Locozodiac · 18 July 2013, 04:13

Looks Hypalon to me, if fabric is smooth, not rugged, it!s Hypalon. That!s a tough repair if you are not experienced, better take to workshop so they can take care of the work, but could be a costly repair.

Happy Boating

ShinyShoe · 18 July 2013, 18:58

Don't think its sun damage although a bit of sun will have made it worse. Looks more like its been damaged by repeated friction - trailer wheel? dragged across a concertete path several times in the same place or maybe moving against a post in the wind.

modemon · 18 July 2013, 20:08

Thanks for the advice.
The boat did not have the fenders where it should have had them when it was tied to the dock..