Can a missing dinghy strap handle be replaced?

[SailMonAmi]

For starters, I have a fairly old 10 foot Carib dinghy. She's still in decent condition and seems to have several years of useful life still in her. Only problem is that several of the strap handles are hanging on by threads, and one has been ripped off completely. Is there any DIY way to fabricate and securely attach new handles? Thanks in advance for any constructive advice.

[model 10]

Feel lucky to have a good dinghy. Some of the more modern dinks have molded pvc handles glued to Hypalon. Everything starts to fall off after a few years. I suppose you just make new handles and use a 2x glue.

[thinwater]

Originally Posted by SailMonAmi

For starters, I have a fairly old 10 foot Carib dinghy. She's still in decent condition and seems to have several years of useful life still in her. Only problem is that several of the strap handles are hanging on by threads, and one has been ripped off completely. Is there any DIY way to fabricate and securely attach new handles? Thanks in advance for any constructive advice.

Pictures please.

[model 10]

Originally Posted by thinwater

Pictures please.

Really? You have not seen a Carib dink handle? Maybe you don't really have an interest.

[SailMonAmi]

Originally Posted by Guy

?...use a 2x glue.

That's it? Sounds easy enough. Gorilla Glue 2X is even waterproof, so maybe it's just that easy... I guess it can't hurt to try it. Not all fixes have to be complicated.

Just hope it holds up when divers try to hoist themselves in. Thanks!

[Paul L]

Determine if your dink is PVC or Hypalon. Get replacement handles - Defender has good low cost ones. Get the right two-part glue, ie for PVC or for Hypalon. Follow the prep cleaning directions and apply. Make sure you let the two parts dry before applying​ the handle to the tube.

[model 10]

Originally Posted by SailMonAmi

That's it? Sounds easy enough. Gorilla Glue 2X is even waterproof, so maybe it's just that easy... I guess it can't hurt to try it. Not all fixes have to be complicated.

Just hope it holds up when divers try to hoist themselves in. Thanks!

Gorillia glue ain't the right stuff. 2 part hypalon glue is.
Some guy was going to show us a trick to get ito the dinghy, but both our pvc hand holds tore off.

[thinwater]

Originally Posted by Guy

Really? You have not seen a Carib dink handle? Maybe you don't really have an interest.

Quite the opposite. I think we all learn by seeing examples. Most would agree that one of the greatest values of forums is discussion of problems and exploration of alternate solutions. Often there are both quick fixes and permanent repairs.

In this case, I will say that I have seen several different types of failure (tear vs. debond) and the OP did not specify.

[JPA Cate]

Fabricate the proper handles yourself, usually they are a strap, sewn onto a patch, which is then glued onto the dinghy. If the dinghy is hypalon, use SC2000 or SC4000, and allow it to cure properly.

We did this one time, using tubular nylon webbing. It lasts pretty well, but it's not forever.

Ann

[Sandero]

Those straps are a dumb idea and they aren't visually attractive either. I much prefer solid "plastic" ones.... two on the aft end of the tube.. ,maybe two forward or midship... one on the bow... total 5 ... all above the rub strake. KISS.

[thinwater]

Originally Posted by Sandero

Those straps are a dumb idea and they aren't visually attractive either. I much prefer solid "plastic" ones.... two on the aft end of the tube.. ,maybe two forward or midship... one on the bow... total 5 ... all above the rub strake. KISS.

Isn't that interesting. I've cut solid handles off and replaced them with grommets and ropes, which I prefer. I left the bow handle off--didn't serve a purpose for me. Just a matter of taste.

But the grommet sort will always be stronger, because there is no leverage on the bond, only shear. The rope is comfortable and easily replaced when worn. Easy.

Function is all that counts. "Visual attractiveness" gets very, very few points in my book. A boat is a tool, even more so a dinghy.

[Pete7]

Always used something like these with a two part glue.

https://polymarineshop.com/parts-acc...r-handles.html

Pete

[SailMonAmi]

Originally Posted by thinwater

Pictures please.

Can't provide pics. I'm 1400 miles from her. Just getting ideas for when I return.

[SailMonAmi]

The entire handle (strap and attachment piece) are just gone. Only thing left is some residual adhesive, which I'll do my best to remove before re-strapping or handle or whichever way I decide to go. Not looking for it to last forever...like I said in the beginning, she's old with a few good years left.

[Paul L]

Originally Posted by SailMonAmi

The entire handle (strap and attachment piece) are just gone. Only thing left is some residual adhesive, which I'll do my best to remove before re-strapping or handle or whichever way I decide to go. Not looking for it to last forever...like I said in the beginning, she's old with a few good years left.

Gluing the new strap on requires that you use an abrasive, aka sandpaper, to significantly rough up each side. All the old adhesive should be gone by then.