XS RIBS: Retube Your Old Inflatable Boat, what to look for on the Collar when buying a used Craft

We see a lot of craft through our work shops for repair and re-tube and we often hear "its in really good condition, it has not had much use, its been stored inside under cover" The reality is Inflatable craft are not made in a way that allows them to be as good as the day they were made after 10 - 15 years. With a car you see the rust, you have it MOT'd and an "expert" checks it all over, but with a boat the changes are much more subtle and harder to see unless you know what you are looking for.
The fabric degrades as do the glued seams and as you can see in this video despite the boat being in useable condition when you start taking it apart you see what has been going on inside, baffle failures, just how much the fabric and glue strength has reduced.
We all need to ask "is the boat we use safe" and when buying a used boat of more than 10 years old ESPECIALLY if you want to keep it for a lengthy period cost in a re-tube because regardless of make, fabric, seam type, use or storage beyond 15 years is the boat you have as safe as the day it was new ?
Contact us to discuss how we can help and for advice.
T + 44 (0) 1707 331 389
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W www.xsribs.com

[@Wiegman4x4Terschelling]

A real craftsmanship to make such a beautiful tube, amazing to see. I called yesterday for my Valiant 8.50 PT. I hope to order a new black tube from your company soon.

[@seafarijapan]

Love the boats , having two XS-750s here in Japan is Epic

[@ehabmourad2326]

You are very excellent. Can you help me how to get the supplies for the rope tie, where are they sold, what is your favorite type of glue

[@patmcmaster1010]

I find your videos very informative thanks. Keep up the good work! Assuming when a boat needs a retube there are no additional problems or remedying works needed, such as flange repair, how much should you allow for a retube? Let's assume it's a fairly common boat, Humber Destroyer 6mtr, with common tube fittings.

[@XsribsInflatableBoats]

If you have a look at www.xs-ribs.co.uk/rib-retube-refit/ there is pricing as well as specifications etc.

[@patmcmaster1010]

@@XsribsInflatableBoats Thankyou. I've just taken a long look, fascinating website, LOADS of info there.

[@MrDoyley35]

Just bought a 2007 bombard 6.10m. Was out yesterday and noticed what I’d describe as a packing strip come away from underneath the left rear tube section on the inside. I just tucked it back in but is it a sign of the tube getting unstuck? It all looks perfect from the outside. The boat has full regular service history abs only 500hrs on the original engine.

[@LinasMockus]

HI ,do you sell PVC fabrik i am from N.Ireland? Thanks

[@XsribsInflatableBoats]

Sorry no we do not try IBS Boat Supplies