Zodiac dinghy with rigid base - stringers not holding solid

[Andi]

Our dinghy floor did not remain rigidly held by the stringers on rough seas , ie the pieces then became raised up in the center, was this unavoidable or was it that the chambers were not inflated enough? (We're beginners).

[John Kennett]

It sounds to me like it was underinflated or wrongly assembled in some way. Do you have any photos

[azzurro]

Stringers must be setup alternatively.
I mean: long-short, short-long.
Otherwise the floor will bend right on the connection between stringers.
Also, the keel must be properly inflated. The pressure must be higher for keel.

Always check instructions manual.

[spartacus]

When inserting the aluminium stringers, the boat needs to be flat. Place the oars under the length of the boat (it helps). Insert the stringer in the recess lip on the floor section. Normally on Zodiacs - there are a couple of rubber bump stops, that the stringer sits within. I used to wear wellies when building the boat - and the rubber heel was perfect for kicking the stringer into place. Alternatively, you could use a rubber mallet. Once the stringers locate, inflate the boat to full operating pressure. You'll hear a few clicks and grinds as everything is pulled together.