Impossible to clean

FrankfromCrete · 09 April 2021, 09:01

Hi, I have just acquired a RIB that I am trying to upgrade and am finding it impossible to clean the tubes. I have tries everything from RIBCleaner to Bleach all with no luck, does anyone have a magical formula for a cleaner that will get the ground in dirt?
Or Do I have to look at re-painting the tubes?

Limecc · 09 April 2021, 09:16

The magic formula is caustic TFR, worked in with a soft scrubbing brush and 303 Protectant.

FrankfromCrete · 09 April 2021, 14:46

Thanks but what is caustic TFR ? I have the 303 though

Pikey Dave · 09 April 2021, 14:48

Quote:

Originally Posted by FrankfromCrete

Thanks but what is caustic TFR ? I have the 303 though

Traffic Film Remover, used in pressure washers for cleaning vehicles.

Limecc · 09 April 2021, 17:21

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pikey Dave

Traffic Film Remover, used in pressure washers for cleaning vehicles.

Yes and I obtained some 200:1 stuff used neat and not diluted.

Waterman · 09 April 2021, 17:27

I had great results with TFR 50:50 mix with water, followed by Cillit Bang Black Mould remover. Finished off when dry with 303.

Click image for larger version

Name: IMG_4010.jpg
Views: 164
Size: 130.0 KB
ID: 136915

spartacus · 09 April 2021, 18:20

Still swear by Rib Revive (and no I'm not on commission)!
Rib Revive - Rib & inflatable boat tube cleaner

Wet the tubes, spray on, then work in with a green scouring pad a section at a time. Rinse off. Use gloves as it's an irritant.

mikehhogg · 09 April 2021, 21:32

I am at the same thing at the moment.I have tried all the expensive rib cleaning products,as the other posters stated the only thing that really works is TFR neat in a spray bottle,apply on a a small area at a time and work in with a nail brush,leave for a few minutes,wash off and repeat,repeat and repeat again and again untill you have the desired result.Finish with a UV protectant like PRO MARINE PROTECTANT for a better than new finish.The secret to success here is elbow grease.

Matt · 09 April 2021, 21:37

Have a search above ^^

There's lots of products & success stories over the years.
The main one I would not recommend is Manos' idea of Toluene.
You'd have had to be a member here back in 2004 to remember that though.

mikehhogg · 09 April 2021, 21:46

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt

Have a search above ^^

There's lots of products & success stories over the years.
The main one I would not recommend is Manos' idea of Toluene.
You'd have had to be a member here back in 2004 to remember that though.

I have tried a lot of products but not toluene. I did however have great success with MR MUSCLE foaming cooker cleaner

Dry Run · 09 April 2021, 22:53

Our Guys use "JML magic sponges" and truck wash solution with remarkable results.

Pikey Dave · 10 April 2021, 10:38

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dry Run

Our Guys use "JML magic sponges" and truck wash solution with remarkable results.

Truck wash =TFR[emoji106]

jakew009 · 10 April 2021, 18:04

I bet a bit of acetone would wipe that clean with zero effort.

Allye · 10 April 2021, 21:14

MEK would rip through that. Google how to use it and avoid damage.

fastasfox · 10 April 2021, 22:30

Quote:

Originally Posted by FrankfromCrete

Hi, I have just acquired a RIB that I am trying to upgrade and am finding it impossible to clean the tubes. I have tries everything from RIBCleaner to Bleach all with no luck, does anyone have a magical formula for a cleaner that will get the ground in dirt?
Or Do I have to look at re-painting the tubes?

Acetone (nail polish remover)
TFR (often used for cleaning trucks) is very good too but be careful with it...paint would have to be a all else failed option.

FrankfromCrete · 11 April 2021, 06:54

Ok thanks guys I have tries a small patch and TFR and black mould remover seems to be working. I will post a before and after pic once done.
Also I have a few seams and things to glue down but am not sure if its PVC or Hypalon , how do I tell?

fastasfox · 11 April 2021, 07:57

Quote:

Originally Posted by FrankfromCrete

Ok thanks guys I have tries a small patch and TFR and black mould remover seems to be working. I will post a before and after pic once done.
Also I have a few seams and things to glue down but am not sure if its PVC or Hypalon , how do I tell?

You need a two part pvc adhesive (same for both hyperlon or pvc fabric) Try searching the rib store. You will need to find out what your rib is made from....google the maker of your boat and it should tell you what it's made from.
Make sure you do your homework (youtube) is a good source. Seem repairs can be very difficult (but not impossible) but it is widely expected that when it comes to rib boats then it's the beginning of the end and a re-tube will be required eventually.
Good luck.

willk · 11 April 2021, 08:23

Quote:

Originally Posted by FrankfromCrete

Also I have a few seams and things to glue down but am not sure if its PVC or Hypalon , how do I tell?

Have a read over this: https://www.polymarine.com/advice/pvc-or-hypalon/

jeffstevens763@g · 11 April 2021, 18:39

Quote:

Originally Posted by FrankfromCrete

Ok thanks guys I have tries a small patch and TFR and black mould remover seems to be working. I will post a before and after pic once done.
Also I have a few seams and things to glue down but am not sure if its PVC or Hypalon , how do I tell?

Scratch with your fingernails if you get fine bits it’s hypalon if none it’s PVC