Change or repair a semi-rigid sausage: costs and methods
The pneumatic sausages of semi-rigid boats are essential components guaranteeing the burst, stability and performance of the boat.
However, over time, these sausages can wear out or undergo more or less serious damage.
For boaters, a crucial question then arises: should we repair or replace the sausages?
In this article, Orca Retail helps you see more clearly by approaching the causes of wear, current risks, repair and replacement methods as well as their respective costs.
Lifespan and wear of pneumatic sausages
The lifespan of a semi-rigid boat sausage float is generally Between 5 and 10 years old, according to several factors.
Use, maintenance and environment all play a crucial role in the longevity of floats.
For example, use in saltwater, without adequate cleaning after each outing, can considerably reduce the lifespan of a sausage.
Likewise, exposure to UV rays Can also accelerate the degradation of materials, especially for PVC sausages.
Regular maintenance, such as freshwater washing and the periodic inspection of possible signs of wear, is therefore essential to extend the lifespan of your pneumatic sausages and achieve long -term savings.
During high use, it is advisable to Check the floats every month, especially when approaching the high season. Regularly evaluating the condition of sausages helps to avoid expensive repairs or, worse, a premature change.
To find out more, consult our dedicated articulate "How to maintain your semi-rigid boat?".
Frequent risks and accidents affecting semi-rigid floats
Baked floats are often exposed to various risks that can cause damage. Navigation accidents, such as clashes with floating objects or strain, represent one of the main causes of damage.
In addition, when launching or storing, friction with rough surfaces can cause holes or tears.
Young children or animals on board can also accidentally damage The floats, shooting on it or playing with it.
In addition to physical accidents, weather conditions can also prove harmful. There extreme heat, THE freeze or prolonged exposure to bad weather Can affect the structure of the sausages, making them more fragile.
Finally, chemicals such as essence, motor oil or some cleaners can deteriorate materials.
Knowing these risks helps prevent incidents and, if necessary, to act quickly for repairs.
For more information, see our dedicated articles "What to do in case of puncturing of the sausage of your zodiac?" And "Emergency repair a puncture at sea".
Change or repair? Resolve the dilemma
When faced with a damaged sausage, the question of complete change or repair often arises.
To determine the best option, it is essential toEvaluate the extent of the damage.
The small perforations or detections of leaks can generally be repaired.
On the other hand, if the tear is important or if the material is too worn out, the change Buddling can become the best solution.
This decision must also take into account the cost of repair in relation to the price of a new sausage.
Repairing a semi-rigid often remains the most economical solution to prolong its lifespan.
For a simple repair, like a small hole or a tear, you must plan Between 50 and 100 euros of labor Depending on the complexity of the intervention, and Between 100 and 150 € per linear meter repair fabric in hypalon.
On the other hand, the full replacement of a float requires a much more substantial budget.
Choice of a new pvc sausage:
- Price range: from 2,000 to 10,000 € depending on the size (from 3.5 to 12 meters)
- Lifespan: Between 8 and 12 years old
Choice of a new sausage in Hypalon:
- Price range: from 4,500 to 20,000 € depending on the size (from 3.5 to 12 meters)
- Lifespan: Between 20 and 30 years
Opting for the Hypalon therefore represents an additional cost compared to PVC, but it is above all an investment in the future, this material being much more resistant.
To find out more, see our articles "PVC or Hypalon: What to choose for your pneumatic sausages?"And" all about the hypalon: a versatile synthetic material and sustainable".
Semi-rigid sausage replacement method
The replacement of a pneumatic sausage requires precision and expertise. Here are the key steps to perform this operation:
Step 1: Removal of old sausages
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Completely deflate the sausages.
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Remove the fixings and gently peel off the used sausages from the shell. A specific solvent may be necessary to eliminate glue residues.
Step 2: Preparation of the shell
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Clearly clean the surface where the new sausages will be fixed.
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Make sure there is no residue of old or impurities.
Step 3: Positioning of new sausages
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Place the new sausages on the shell to check the alignment.
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Mark the fixing zones for precise positioning.
Step 4: Application of glue
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Apply a specific glue for Hypalon or PVC, depending on the sailful material, on the shell and on the new sausages.
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Leave to dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Step 5: Fixing sausages
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Assemble the sausages by the shell by pressing firmly to guarantee optimal grip.
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Use a roll to hunt air bubbles and strengthen grip.
Step 6: Drying and verification
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Leave to dry for 48 hours before inflating the sausages.
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Check the waterproofing and make sure the sausages are properly fixed.
Hypalon fabric repair method
To effectively repair pneumatic sausage in hypalon, follow these steps:
Step 1: Preparation of the surface
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Carefully clean the damaged area with fresh water and a soft detergent.
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Dry completely and lightly sand the surface with fine sandpaper.
Step 2: Cutting Hypalon fabric
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Cut a piece of hypalon fabric in the shape of a circle or oval, larger than tear.
Step 3: Application of glue
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Apply a special Hypalon glue to the room and the area to be repaired.
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Let dry for a few minutes.
Step 4: Assembly
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F by firmly press the piece of fabric in the damaged area.
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Use a roll to remove air bubbles.
Step 5: drying time
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Let the repair dry for at least 24 hours before re -inflating.
Find a semi-rigid boat expert near you in France to make your repairs or changes of sausages.
Conclusion
In short, the choice between changing or repairing a semi-rigid sausage depends on the condition of the floats and the acuity of damage.
Sometimes a simple repair can prolong the lifespan of sausages, while being more economical.
However, when the safety and integrity of your boat is at stake, do not neglect the importance of making the right decision!