If you have a product troubleshooting enquiry please take a look at our FAQ's.
A. | Our dealers are specially trained to consult with you to develop the best solution for your needs. To get an idea, start by determining whether you need an inflatable or a RIB. Then, determine the general size of the vessal to suit your needs. Unless you have a very specific need, one of our standard models will offer the best value. |
A. | Zodiac inflatable boats and RIBS are considered the safest boats on the water, their tremendous load-carrying capacity and compact design makes them ideal for many uses. |
A. | The primary questions are stowage and use. Inflatables deflate, stow in a small footprint and are easy to transport on a small vessel or small vehicle. RIBS are lightweight, full size boats that don't deflate for storage. They are trailored, moored, or stowed on larger vessels. |
A. | Never use a motor power hp higher than indicated on the manufacturer's ID plate as this could result in loss of control. It is recommended that you choose a motor suitable for your principal boating activities. The recommended and maximum powers are given in the technical specifications. For further advice speak with your dealer. |
A. | The optimal operating pressure for most Zodiac inflatable boats is between 240-250 millibars or 3.28 - 3.62 PSI. |
A. | When deflating the buoyancy tubes always check that the valves and gaskets are clean and not damaged. Also check that the self bailer is not clogged. |
A. | Firstly, check that all valves are intact and are closed and that there is nothing clogging the valves. Then, mix water and dish soap in a spray bottle and spray your inflatable whilst it's inflated. Watch out for small bubbles, hissing and other telltale signs. It's simple but it works everytime! If for whatever reason you still can't find the leak contact your local dealer. |
A. | A 20% air pressure loss in a 24 hour period is normal. You only need to worry about more serious air leakages. For the buoyancy tube a serious leakage would be a pressure loss of 10 millibars in 5 hours or less. For the Aerotec Airfloor a serious leakage would be a pressure loss of 35 millibars in 5 hours or less. If you suspect you have an an air leakage, first, check all valves are intact and are closed, also check that there is nothing clogging the valve. Then, check the remainder of the boat for hissing or other telltale signs. If you can't find the leak speak to your local dealer for further advice. |
A. | Before storing always ensure that your boat is clean remove sand and other particles. Rinse with fresh water and dry thoroughly.
When storing your boat, keep it in a clean and dry place that is not affected by major variations in temperature and other damaging factors. You may store the boat deflated and rolled up or lightly inflated. For long term storage in the sun, especially in tropical regions make sure your boat is protected by a tarpaulin. Remember, rodents may chew fabric including inflatable boat material. Always store your boat away from rodents. |
A. | Use the lateral D-rings to moor your boat. When moored, always ensure that the self bailers remain open to drain rain water. |
A. | Inflatables should always be towed using a bridle; never use a single line attached to the bow handle. Use the 2 lateral D-rings for this purpose. To hoist your boat and place it on davits, use the davit lifting rings. |
A. | No you can't install them yourself, have them installed by your local dealer. When being hoisted or placed on davits, the boat must be empty (No passengers and No equipment) and tipped toward the rear. Self Bailers should remain open to drain any rain water. |
A. | The boat must be properly inflated. Adjust the rollers (or supports) of the trailer to fit the shape of the boat. Haul the boat onto the trailer using the lateral D-rings. The bottom of the transom must rest on the trailer bunks. Place the motor in the down position so that it can rest on the support provided by the trailer. The self bailer should remain open. Tie down the straps and ensure the buoyancy tubes are protected agains't chafing. |
A. | Never use high pressure cleaning equipment likely to damage the boat. Also, never use strong detergents like Acid, Trichlorethylene, Mineral Spirts or Silicone based products as cleaning agents. These may damage your boat. |
A. | You can easily repair your boat's minor punctures be it either Hypalon or Strongan fabric. If the puncture is 1cm or larger you should seek advice from your dealer. To find out the fabric of your boat check the buoyancy tube's vertical seams. Since 1985, most Zodiac boats are made from Strongan fabric. If the seams of your boat are glued one covering the other so that you can only see part of the fabric that covers the other section - you have a boat constructed from Hypalon fabric. If the seams are are welded between an exterior reinforcement and an air tight band. What you see is the exterior band with 2 borders - you have a boat constructed from Strongan fabric. See the Steps below for Step by Step tips on repairing a small puncture. |
A. | You will need a patch, a special tube of glue ready for use (check with your dealer that you are using a suitable patch and suitable glue) and a brush. |
A. | Relative humidity less than 60%. Temperature between 18 and 25 degrees. Avoid carrying out repairs in direct sunlight or in rain. Check that the buoyancy tube is fully deflated and lies flat. |
A. | Clean the boat thoroughly removing all traces of glue, grease and other particles. For Hypalon fabric - rough the material with the pumice stone provided never use solvent. For Strongan fabric - use an alcohol-type grease remover or use a pumice stone. |
A. | To prepare the the area for repair. Cut out a round patch at least 5cm larger than the cut. Draw the shap of the patch exactly where it is to be applied. Clean the damaged part of the boat and the corresponding side of the patch. Hypalon fabric - with the pumice stone only. Strongan fabric - with an alcohol-type grease remover. Allow to drive for 5 minutes. |
A. | When glueing the patch - apply 3 thin layers of glue on both the patch and the roughened area on the boat and let dry for 5-10 minutes between each layer until tacky. When the 3rd layer is dry, apply the patch without pressing and adjust the position if required. Press out air bubbles which may have formed under the patch. Smooth the patch with a round object (eg: a spoon) starting from the centre of the patch. Clean the excess glue with a suitable solvent. |
A. | After repairing a puncture, do not expose the repair to sun, rain or water for at least 24 hours. Let dry for 24 hours before inflating. |
A. | Check weather, local currents and wind conditions. Do not forget to advise someone on land of the time you plan to be back. Always explain basic boat operations to all passengers. Make sure one of your passengers can handle the boat in case of emergency. Be sure inflation pressure is correct. Inspect the valve caps and remove the self-bailer cap. Retighten moter clamps. If it is not bolted, make sure you secure your engine with a safety lanyard attached to the bracket and the motor plate. Top up fuel and oil levels. If your outboard has a separate oil tank do not forget to fill it up. Install your fuel tank in the location provided and check its fittings. Check local regulations for safety equipment required on-board - 1 x PFD per person, foot-pump, paddles, repair kit and tool kit, boat papers and your boat license. |
A. | Check that the load is evenly distributed. In normal conditions, the load must be distributed along the centreline of the boat, preferably at the rear. For single-handed operation, remain on the starboard side to compensate the torque of the propeller. In a 'following' sea load the stern - the tilt pin should be in the 3rd or 4th position. In a 'head on' sea load the bow - the tilt pin should be in the 2nd or even in the 1st hole position. |
A. | Do not exceed the authorised number of persons or weight. No Alcohol or Drugs - Do not drink alcohol or take drugs before or while operating your boat. Ensure that all passengers remain sober. All passengers must wear a Personal Flotation Device. Make sure your passengers are remain seated: sitting on the buoyancy tubes may be comfortable at rest or at low speeds provided your passengers use the grab line. At planing speeds, in rough water or during sharp turns, all passengers should possition themselves in the seat or on the floor. We will take no responsibility if this warning is disregarded. Remember that Bow Riding is illegal in most areas and is extremely dangerous. Take care when docking, arms and legs may be injured if they are outside the boat. |
A. | Always use the stop switch lanyard. Your outboard comes equipped with a stop switch safety lanyard to prevent a runaway boat in case the operator falls overboard. Attach it to the operator it could save a life. In case of incident - an inflatable boat is practically unsinkable, even when full of water. If after an accident, a compartment deflates, bring it inside the boat and return at reduced speed. In case of a collision or an impact with a floating object, stop to examine the hull, the buoyancy tubes, the motor and its attachments and return to shore at low speed. Take your boat to a dealer for inspection before using it again. Neglecting inspections and repairs could reduce the life of your boat and may be dangerous. |
A. | Always respect local regulations and practices. Do not neglect the safety rules, this could jeopardise your life and the lives of others. Learn to control your boat correctly and to respect the navigation rules. Take a boating safety course to improve your knowledge and always operate with courtesy and respect. |
Still need more help? Contact your place of purchase or an authorized Zodiac Dealer or, email through your product enquiry to us by completing the form below.
Please Note: in order to respond to your enquiry please ensure you complete all fields including a detailed description of the problem you are experiencing. Once complete click send, and your query will be emailed to us. We will respond to your email as quickly as possible.
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