1993 Bombard Explorer WB 385 Repair

PacificNWrib · 28 June 2006, 15:54

I had just purchased this rib, motor and trailer. This is my second RIB and my 5th Zodiac boat. The tubes are in excellent shape, but when I tried to take them off, the tubes have seperated from the lip that goes into the slot in the hull. For that year, are the tubes PVC or Hypalon?

Thanks!

John

Tim M · 28 June 2006, 17:57

What does the fabric feel like? Is it hard and stiff (pvc) or does it feel soft (hypalon)

jyasaki · 28 June 2006, 18:15

'93 was before Zodiac bought Bombard (and before Zodiac went to PVC, also); I'd expect your boat is hypalon.

jky

Limey Linda · 28 June 2006, 18:16

The "lip" you refer to goes into a channel in the hull it is called a " bolt rope". Removal is by sliding out from the bow. Do not try to pull off the hull at 90 degrees. Re-gluing/ solvent welding should not be a problem providing you get the right "glue" and maintain proper alighnment.

PacificNWrib · 08 August 2006, 14:13

I have contacted Zodiac and the tubes are PVC. I was able to clean up the rope with MEK and started the long process of gluing them together. It has been over 48 hours now and I can't wait to test the RIB out this Friday. I will post some pics of my setup.

Thanks everyone!