ReplacingZodiac row locks with something more sturdy?

[SpearRib]

I dont have much faith in the oars or the row locks on most inflatables.

Is there a way to replace them should the need arise to have to row a fair distance?

[SpearRib]

im not sure what to do as i dont think normal row locks will fit in a zodiac?

[spartacus]

Zodiac rowlocks often fail. They're simply not up to the task. Fine for occasional rowing, but as soon as you put your back into it (which normally happens when the wind gets up or you're rowing against the tide) - then they disintegrate. The oars themselves, assuming they're the wooden ones and the stainless steel rowlock are excellent, it's just the rowlock bush which is seated in the rubber mount which causes the problem. The stainless steel bush is too lightweight. When rowing it flexes in the rubber mount. You could try removing it, part-drill or cut a larger hole in the rubber (careful with this bit) and insert a new larger overall diameter with the same internal diameter stainless steel bush which is bonded in place.

Not sure what else is on the market you could replace it with?

[SpearRib]

i simply dont know what options i have outside what you suggested. is it hard to remove the existing locks?

id be happy with simple row locks and buying some wooden oars.

[spartacus]

Originally Posted by SpearRib

i simply dont know what options i have outside what you suggested. is it hard to remove the existing locks?

id be happy with simple row locks and buying some wooden oars.

Hot air gun (don't keep it in the same area too long) and a blunt edged spatula. Takes time but can be done. Remove all existing glue with Dremel and sand band attachment, lightly sand tube and new rowlock base then clean with MEK to degrease. Full instructions for attaching rubber to PVC here: http://polymarine.com/pdfs/Polymarin...-Use-Guide.pdf

Bit extreme to replace row lock, but see if anything is on the market before you go ripping it off.

[jyasaki]

I liked the Achilles locks: a dual pivoting pin on a rubber pad/block that glues to the tube. The pin goes through an aluminum oar shaft, and the oar secured with a plastic screw-on knob on the pin. Had a source for replacements, but I think they went out of business.

To be fair, I never used them much so don't know how they'd hold up to heavy use, but they seemed pretty robust to me.

Here's a link:
Achilles Glue Down Oarlock, F-Type F6, each

And here are the oars:
Achilles UD-6 Oar For 5 Man Sportboat. 71.25" long. Sold as each.


jky

[Boatnomad]

Always found the Avon Oar Locks BY FAR the strongest and best to use.
But wonder if they would go on PVC!

[SpearRib]

those avons would do nicely on the zodiac. i want wood oars. dont care if they have to be strapped down in the cockpit.

[m chappelow]

Another alternative D & Y class boats just have a webbing loop for the oars . Though if your boat has a collar or bolt on top the tube / sponson you can always thread a small loop of rope or use cable ties or use a lifeline wrapped around tight if you were stuck .