I have a '96 Calypso T-13 RIB, with Hypalon tubes (original owner). It's
been a pretty good boat, but has gradually developed slow leaks such
that it now has to be topped off daily or it becomes pretty limp (no
jibes about my boat's erectile dysfunction, please! I don't think Viagra
will help ).

The boat's seen light use, and has been garaged its whole life, so the
external condition is very good - no abrasions, tears, etc. All 3
chambers lose air at the same rate, so I think it is a general problem,
not due to any particular incident. The rubber seals on the valve covers
are in good shape, so I don't think they're the source of the air loss.

Is it worth going after Calypso to apply the 10 year warranty, or are
they going to claim all inflatables slowly lose air?

I found a product by DUX which is a sealant for inflatables. Apparently
you inject it into the chambers, and it's supposed to stop the slow
leaks. Has anyone tried this approach? Does it require the boat be
inverted/rolled to distribute the sealant (this would be hard to do with
a 300 lb. RIB with a 150 lb. 40hp motor semi-permanently attached!)? I
suppose another option would be to deflate the chambers while on the
trailer, and 'smoosh' the fabric (and sealant inside) all around until
the sealant is distributed throughout. I've got an email in to DUX about
this, but haven't heard back from them yet.

Thanks!

--
Bubba

Take "REEMOVE" out of my email address to reply.