Repair leak in Achilles Hypalon Dinghy

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Kevdon22

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Apr 16, 2012
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32964
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I have a Achilles Hypalon tube, hard bottom dinghy that seems to have several leaks on the con shape end of the tube at the stern on one tube.
It seems that there are several areas on one pontoon where the are several small "scrapes" about 1" long where the rubber is missing on the outside. There may be other leaks that I have not found but these leak pretty bad
The dinghy is over ten years old and has been exposed to the environment most of the time.
Attached is one proposed repair URL:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OncFphHZ6oM

Several questions,
Could it be caused by aging, doesn't look like a puncture? One pontoon is OK.
Any experience with patching per the U-tube.
I saw on the internet an expensive liquid that is distributed inside (I don't know how). Any experience?
Appreciate any comments, or experience with Hypalon repairs.
Thanks
 
Toluene, Bostik 2402, piece of Hypalon, and a green pad. No angles on your patches - round the edges. Follow the directions on the adhesive, and do it outside. Strongly recommend a respirator or working in a good breeze - that adhesive, as well as the toluene, is no bueno for the brain. Should probably wear gloves, too.

I just checked the website for the last place I bought it from (Clavey, in Petaluma CA) and it looks like they don't carry it anymore. No idea where else to find it. They were the best source I had, always had fresh stuff on the shelves.
 
Depending upon use and storage 20 years is still not too old. The description by NC as well as the video is very good.
Always use the better 2 part glue and make sure it is not out of date or stored open. Your results will be much better with low humidity but the instructions should conform that as well.
The stuff you pour in the tubes works great until you deflate the tubes and/or for about 6 months.

Hope this helps
 
I just repaired a 25 year old Avon hypalon dinghy. With very good results. Use the specified materials, follow the directions closely and you should have a good repair.
 
A year ago I got a small puncture... A drop of 5200 covered by a small piece of heqvy duty duct tape did the trick.

It worked so well that I haven't done anything to it since,,,
 
If Armor-All is bad (I never liked it because of the look it ages into) what U.V. protector would you recommend?
 
Armor all and 303 are really not a good idea on these boats.
I have had good results with Aurora sealant for inflatables on both PVC and hypalon boats.
 
Can I use 5200 to re-attach tubes for PVC or Hypalon?
 
I would not. That stuff is so gooey it would be tough to get a uniform, thin spread that works well. Not only that it cures slowly compared to the cement supplied with hypalon. That stuff is glue both sides, wait until tacky and when you put it down you had better be correct. BTW I saw people try generic contact cement on a rub rail to a hypalon tube and it failed immediately. If I was going to use 5200 on a leak caused by a nick I would smear it on just enough to cover the hole and a little more, then put tape on to squish it flat.
 
quote:
Originally posted by pstew96

Can I use 5200 to re-attach tubes for PVC or Hypalon?

Click to expand...


No. Lot of forces on those tubes. I'd stick to a proper 2 part adhesive and proper prep.
 
quote:
Originally posted by Kevdon22

Thanks,
Anyone think 10+ year hypalon is too old?

Click to expand...

I do. You've gotten your money's worth. Buy a new one.
 
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