So My Partner buys abandoned storage units and we have come across a Zodiac inflatable. The only thing I can find is on this site so I've joined in the hope of some info if possible please. I will attach some photos but this is a whole new exciting world of finds for us. Thank you in advance
Welcome aboard. First thing to do is pump it up hard and see if it holds air
Hiya, not sure if I'm reply the correct way here. It does indeed it just wouldn't fit with both sides up at the same time haha. Its had a repair in the back but is air tight.
Those Zodiac models were a premium expensive inflatable when new. The air containing tube joins are electro-heat welded so usually last well but I can see in the images you have the usual problem that the glue is starting to fail where the tubes are glued to the transom and there may be yet undiscovered problems where the floor is glued to the tubes.
These areas can be re-glued but at a high cost if by a specialist, DIY is possible but needing care with cleaning and gluing procedure for a lasting job.
Those Zodiac models were a premium expensive inflatable when new. The air containing tube joins are electro-heat welded so usually last well but I can see in the images you have the usual problem that the glue is starting to fail where the tubes are glued to the transom and there may be yet undiscovered problems where the floor is glued to the tubes.
These areas can be re-glued but at a high cost if by a specialist, DIY is possible but needing care with cleaning and gluing procedure for a lasting job.
What are you planning to do with it?
We will be selling it but wasn't sure on how to even find out its worth etc. All I could see was it was made in the 80s. But I like to find out the background etc and make sure it goes to a loved home etc.
Glue life on Zodiac inflatables is a constant topic. When I bought mine new the dealer said they went on a life of 18-20yrs. Many on the forum have suffered serious glue failure in that age range.
So at around 40yrs old yours is well in the spares or repairs category. I would inflate it in the garden for photos and list on Ebay as an auction with the comment "signs of glue failure, sold as spares/repairs". Start it at £50 and let the bidders value it.
Hullabaloo
