The Skipper's Blog

Martin Sauer asked:
I have an Achilles RIB. It is Hypalon. It has specks all over it. I think it is mold. Is speed clean effective for this problem? Thank You

Answer:

For your convenience, I’ve highlighted the hyperlinks. Click on the hyperlink to get more information about the selected product.

Hi Martin,

If the mold spots are superficial, then Speed Clean^® will remove them. If the mold has penetrated into the Hypalon fabric then they are indelible and Speed Clean^® may lighten the spots a bit but cannot remove them. Anything strong enough to penetrate into the fabric to lighten the mold stain will also damage the Hypalon and eventually your tube will leak air.

Your choices are: 1. try Speed Clean^® to see if that works if not then 2. live with the spots or 3. replace the tube.

Regular maintenance with these products can more than double the life of your inflatable tube, keep it looking new and add value when it comes time to sell or trade your boat.

Regardless of your choice, I suggest that going forward you clean your tube with Speed Clean^®, on a regular basis and protect it with Poly Guard^®. Poly Guard^® will prevent mold from penetrating into the fabric so you can clean it off without permanent damage. In addition, it will protect the tube from UV, soil, grime, diesel soot, suntan lotion, chalking, scuffing, fading, bird feces, etc. and make the tube much easier to keep clean. Most dirt can be removed with plain water and more stubborn soiling can be removed with Aurora Inflatable Boat Cleaner^®.

Thanks for your question,

Captain Aurora
Richard Kittar

---

The Skipper Recommends:

---