Cleaning Sponsons

David Perry · 10 May 2001, 20:06

Can anyone recommend a safe reliable way of cleaning tubes, I have tried a variety of products and have yet to find one that does a really good grime removal job, I did have one disaster with a so called sponson cleaner which left the surface as slippery as a skating rink with near disastrous consequences!
I am looking to preserve the colour of my tubes for as long as possible so any advice would be welcomed.
Dave.

[This message has been edited by David Perry (edited 10 May 2001).]

[This message has been edited by David Perry (edited 11 May 2001).]

eksrae · 13 May 2001, 22:53

we use gojo hand cleaner which is a natural citrus cleaner with a little grit. it works well for removing any grime. it is used on all the coast guard boats and has done no harm. after they are cleaned we put a protector back on. this happens once a month

David Perry · 16 May 2001, 22:39

Where are you from? UK?
What is the protector you use.
Very useful information....Thank you.
Dave

David Perry · 17 May 2001, 22:33

Thanks for the offer, I am in Pembrokeshire and unfortunately I cannot make Ribex. I will see if I can get my hands on this "magic" cleaner.
All the advice is most welcome
Dave

Scubakid · 18 May 2001, 00:53

I also use GOJO and find it is great for all sorts of cleaning (even hands) I get it from COSTCO it is members only but it is not dificult to become a member there is one in Liverpool which is possibly your nearest as your profile is Wales (North ?) If you are going to Ribex then contact me as I have one bottle that is nearly finished that you can have to see if it is OK.

eksrae · 19 May 2001, 01:42

hey there

i am from canada. the protector is a 303 protectant made by stp. any protector made for tubes would do. we tried some new cleaner last night that is your typical hand cleaner that has no grit. it worked just as well and i might better recommened that than the gritty stuff.

David Perry · 19 May 2001, 09:01

Greetings Canada.
Thanks for the info on the protectant and the hand cleaner idea. There are a number of prodcuts on the market in the UK which I think will do the job. I might just buy a tub and repackage it as Sponbrite (!) or someting similar!!
If anyone else has any bright ideas about this subject, please post.
Dave.

Alan · 19 May 2001, 11:50

Inflatable Boat Supplies in Basildon do some "inflatable tube cleaner" in a 500ml bottle. Its good stuff ... cleaned up our tubes a treat last year after they faded in the sun. Don't have their number to hand but you should be able to find them on the web or via directory enquiries. Think they do mail order.

HTH, Alan

David Perry · 20 May 2001, 21:29

Thanks. I will give them a try.
Dave

Jari Hjerppe · 21 May 2001, 16:15

You should be careful when using cleaners and other chemicals for the tubes. Some cleaners may contain solvents or other chemicals, for example silicone, that can be harmful for the tube material. Wrong kind of cleaner or protector can make a repair glueing very difficult and there can also be other harmful effects.

Use of the hand cleaner sounds good.

The 303 Protectant is designed to give a protection against UV rays for the treated material. It's water soluble so it shouln't harm the tubes, but it may not work too well as a cleaner.

I have used the 303 in my new Zodiac and it seems to be a good product. The tube is easier to clean and the product gives also protection against dirt. Treated surface is a bit slippery when wet and that can be a problem for some RIB and inflatable users.

J. Hjerppe

[This message has been edited by Jari Hjerppe (edited 21 May 2001).]

alain · 22 May 2001, 00:02

Just what is the "typical hand cleaner"
Sorry I dont know it, any brand names?