Dinghy tube cosmetic repair

[MV Wanderlust]

The previous owner of our 2005 Rendova tender had a tendency to run the bow up under the swim platform on the momma boat. As a result, the essentially-cosmetic tape strips are a bit chewed up.



We contacted a local inflatable repair shop and they quoted us $200 to use adhesive to attach two new strips. Wow! (I need to get into the boat repair business)

We would like to find some 2” wide strip material to adhesive on and cover these scuffed up areas. Any suggestions on sources, materials, or processes?

We thought about getting a couple of these West Marine dinghy seat handles, turning them vertically, and gluing them on. They would cover the old strips and the handle material would be tougher in case we bumped into anything.



The West Marine version has gray handles that would blend well with our tubes.

Another option would be West Marine’s liquid rubber in gray. Tape off the areas and carefully paint this one, brushing until it’s smooth and no sags.

https://www.westmarine.com/buy/west-...10_301_007_508

Any thoughts, experiences, or guidance appreciated.

John

[SVHarmonie]

That strip is not "cosmetic" they cover and bind together a seam. If you glue handle down on to it, you risk ripping it off and having a much bigger headache.

I am not sure if you have a PVC or Hypalon dinghy, but new material and glue needs to match.

The liquid rubber will work, but trust me, it is NOT possible to apply it smooth enough it looks good, and since this is a cosmetic repair...

Best solution in this case to to get a sheet of matching material (or contrasting if you are feeling all artsy!) cut it twice as wide as the existing strip and just glue it down over it. In bulk, it's pretty cheap. Cover the existing strip, and bind to the tube on either side.

A perfect first patch to practice on, since it is just adding a "bump strip" and not holding air!