Deflating a RIB

[Tony B]

I will be deflating my RIB and putting it in to storage - maybe.

Question: When I deflate, what should I be aware of, like will the tubes come off the bottom or does everything stay in place by itself?

Thanks in advance.

[ranger58sb]

When we've deflated ours with a power deflator, nothing special happens.

I don't think it's great for some of the connecting points, though, and it's hard on any stickers or registration numbers you might have on the tubes.

-Chris

[MarkSF]

My suggestion would be to store it with the tubes gently inflated, if you have room.

[Hud3]

We had an Achilles LSI-290 Hypalon inflatable, and used a small shop vac to deflate it, leaving as little air as possible inside so it would roll up compactly. Never had any problems with doing it that way.

[JPA Cate]

Tony,

I think Mark has had the best answer so far. We deflate our RIB to get it on deck, and it has proved very hard on the rub strake. So, if you can store it partially deflated, it will probably be better for it. Our tubes are glued to the hull, and there's now, after 8 years, one spot that's starting to peel away from sucking it down so hard.

Ann

[Tony B]

Thanks to all for the info.
I didn't make myself clear the first time.
The deflation is not for storage, it is for getting it into my van. When it gets to storage it will be re-inflated.
You did however answer my question as to whether it would come apart, apparently not, or should I say, hopefully not.
Thanks again.