Fender Repair

[Lawrence]

I am trying to repair a large pvc fender with a small split in the end opposite the inflater valve. I tried to weld it with a small blow torch but found the pvc tends to either burn or melt away from the hole rather than seal its self. It is not pratical to put on a patch in this location. I was thinking of drilling a small hole at each end of the split and injecting some sealant in such a manner that it would form a puddle on the inside. Then inject a small amount of air in the valve to force some of the sealant out of the split. Then leave it while the sealant solidifies for 24 hours, and then see if it would withstand inflation pressure. Any ideas if this would work? What sealant that would work best? Any other remedies or pratical suggestions?

[motion30]

I would try 5200 Let us know if this works

[sailvayu]

Throw it in the dumpster and buy a new one. I have never seen a repair that held up to the loads on the fender and you do not want it to fail when needed most.

Wayne
Projectboatzen.com

[missnmountains]

I believe several brands have a lifetime warranty. Check that out you may get lucky.

[Bloodhound]

West Marine replace 3 of mine last year, no questions asked. They came with the boat and were of unknown age. But if you've already put a torch to the tear you may have inflicted enough damage to void the warranty.

[Chief Engineer]

Many fenders have a lifetime warranty

Trying to repair one is a WOFTAM

[SkiprJohn]

I have a couple of old split fenders that I just filled with expanding foam from Home Depot. They aren't pretty but they'll do until I can buy some new guaranteed ones.
regards,

[Lawrence]

When you leave the protected shores of the US a lot changes; not the least of which is the marketing approach and "generousity" of ships chandleries. Trading in the fender is not on. I cant even find 5200 in Sydney! Has anyone been able to "vulcanize" pvc?
A new fender is about $120 in this size. If the sealant approach wont work I will try plan B with foam; then plan C "to the dumpster"

[sailvayu]

Maybe you could find used one? I buy most of my stuff on ebay not sure they have that where you are.

Wayne

[fishwife]

boat fenders, Cars, Bikes, Boats, Musical Instruments, New items at low prices on eBay.com.au

[Penfield Reef]

Hi Lawrence,

Nothing you can buy or do on your own (quick and cheap) will bond soft vinyl of any kind since there are too many oils involved in the plastic itself which restrict adhesion.

If you bought it at West Marine it's almost suredly a Taylor fender...chances are that if it is one of their's if you call them and remark how much you like their product they will replace it.....you'll probably have to pay shipping....but they are a great company ( customer service wise).

Your best bet is to just buy a new one because the 120.00 you spend on a fender you will save in peace of mind when it comes to every odd noise you hear coming from your boat in the general direction of that fender.

Good Luck:

Pat