lifespan of an Avon Hypalon inflatable?

[DRAHandyman]

I have been asked by a local non-profit organization to check over their Avon inflatable that is used as a back up to their newer Yukon inflatable. It turns out that this Avon Rover 3-80 is 30 years old! It does have a lot of professionally applied patches but the chambers and keel hold air without any leaks. One of the floor boards needs replacing and I have noticed some of the tape applied over the seams is in poor shape. I am feeling that at 30 years old, this boats has reached the end of its useful life even though the Hypalon appears visually strong. The boat hasn't been used for many years (because it is just a backup) and has been stored inside. I really wouldn't want the users having problems when using the boat for their sea bird surveys!

Any guidance out there on the useful life of Avon Hypalon inflatables and if so what should I be looking for in particular regarding potential problems.

Thanks

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: lifespan of an Avon Hypalon inflatable?

With respect to tubes, if Hypalon fabric is in mint cond, that's not dried up, cracked, peeled outter skin, your main concerns will be seams & internal air baffles. 30 years is usually the most that will go, unless you are or have a skilled inflatable repairman that knows his work and can seal/glue back all unglued parts to be usefull for years to come.

Happy Boating

 

[ronaldj]

Re: lifespan of an Avon Hypalon inflatable?

Replace it

 

[Guest]

Re: lifespan of an Avon Hypalon inflatable?

I have been asked by a local non-profit organization to check over their Avon inflatable that is used as a back up to their newer Yukon inflatable. It turns out that this Avon Rover 3-80 is 30 years old! It does have a lot of professionally applied patches but the chambers and keel hold air without any leaks. One of the floor boards needs replacing and I have noticed some of the tape applied over the seams is in poor shape. I am feeling that at 30 years old, this boats has reached the end of its useful life even though the Hypalon appears visually strong. The boat hasn't been used for many years (because it is just a backup) and has been stored inside. I really wouldn't want the users having problems when using the boat for their sea bird surveys!

Any guidance out there on the useful life of Avon Hypalon inflatables and if so what should I be looking for in particular regarding potential problems.

Thanks

I wouldn't even think about throwing it out if it looks in decent condition and holds air well. I'm sure you can still get a couple hundred bucks on craigslist or ebay for it.

 

[fbpooler]

Re: lifespan of an Avon Hypalon inflatable?

Our Avon was purchased in 1980, so quality counts for longevity. It has been kept out of the sun folded in the bag when not in use. Guess it is now 34 years old and still very useable.

Avon calendered their own Hypalon back then which was more durable than the fabric they have used since being purchased by Zodiac. I got some of the new fabric for a repair kit and the difference is noticeable. The repair shop told us to hold on to the old Avon and have any repairs made if they become needed. They are a lifeboat repair center and know their business well, so I trust their judgement. So far the glue is holding, but sooner or later it will start decomposing. I would have it reglued as long as the fabric looks useable.