How should I attempt to repair this? seam coming loose - front pontoon

[Fstarocka]

Hi all - so got ot my first rib 2 days ago - the mariner 60hp starts soon as the key is twisted.. anyway -

there are a few leaks.. sides had a pinhole which fixed.. still micro leaks i found using soapy foam.. they only show up after 10 minutes and are TINY..

Anyway - the front ponton seam is loose (guess the rest of boat isnt too great then).. anyways - im going to repair this.. maybe replace later -

Any tips on how to do this from the outside?

[office888]

You may have a difficult time. The material is glued PVC. You will likely find that most of the bonds are weak due to a combination of the age of the boat and the heat in your location.

When If you reglue the section, you'll probably find that the MEK vapors from the glue will further deactivate the old glue, and unglue the section further.

I find it best to unglue the seam until I reach a well-bonded section. Then MEK the old glue off, reglue, and clamp the seam with a vice-clamp and wood blocks for a minimum of 72 hours.

[Fstarocka]

Yes I pulled the seam till it got real hard, luckily it's not right to the ends.. I'll clear off all the old glue and acetone before laying new glue coats.. So excited great stuff on the market here and dirt cheap.. Will get some this week and start glueing when I get back..

Once I get the hang I think I'll manage, Tue material still looks strong.. Surprisingly the original leak was tiny, I thought OT wd have whooshed out of such a big hole.. Only after I stuck my finger in I saw how bad it was..

Maybe I'll make a short tutorial if it holds up..

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[cgoing]

What is the make and model of the boat?

[Fstarocka]

Not sure, not at it now.. Picking up a really good 2 part glue and will be back this week.. Grind away old glue, acetone, etc etc.. Have some good instructions.. I'll update you when I've tried

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[Fstarocka]

ok - got the glue, got the glue gun, followed the instructions very well and the entire seam is sealed really really strong, I couldnt even pick off the edge - glad I managed to learn how to fix this..

FYI I used staphol - a product made in south africa and the stuff is INSANELY strong. the Super friendly guy showed me samples from his cupboard where the glue actually ripped the pvc apart from the inner weave! They had to put it in a machine t pull it apart it as so tough..

Incredible stuff! ill go round my boat one pontoon at a time and reglue all the rope covers etc..