Antifouling on the Bellows

[1994almeida]

Hi<br />My boat stays on salt water during 6 month a year. <br />I have a 4.3 V6, 97 Mercruiser<br />In order to prevent barnacles I use anti fouling Trilux from International on the stern drive. <br /><br />The question is:<br />Cloud I apply antifouling on the Bellows without damage the rubber ? <br /><br />Thanks, Almeida

 

[Buttanic]

Re: Antifouling on the Bellows

Generally marine growth doesn't form on rubber. I have seen tires that have been underwater for years with very little growth on them.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Antifouling on the Bellows

Welcome to iboats ......You don't need to do anything ......JK

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Antifouling on the Bellows

Originally posted by Buttanic:<br /> Generally marine growth doesn't form on rubber. I have seen tires that have been underwater for years with very little growth on them.

WRONG !!!!! Absolutely !!!! A barnacle will form on your butt if you stay in the water clamming too long.I have seen cases of barnacles growing betweed the folds in a bellows and wearing holes in them.To answer the original question,you can spray some antifoul on the rubber but it will probably come off.I take a handful of marine grease and rub it in to all rubber underwater components and especially between the folds of the bellows.This is messy but does a good job and preserves the rubber.

 

[Lou C]

Re: Antifouling on the Bellows

When I was on the Pettit Paints website, I noticed that they do make an antifouling paint for inflatables. I called and asked them about using it on a bellows, and the tech guy said because it is copper based it could cause electrolysis of the aluminum. So maybe I'll do like Charlie did and put some nice marine grease up in there. For sure you get barnicles in the folds of the bellows.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Antifouling on the Bellows

Barnicles will grow on rubber...& while Charlie's method will work, I don't do that for environmental concerns....<br />If you use your boat frequently & only have it in for six months, I don't see a problem...<br />I would remove any barnicle residue, (if any) in the off-season<br />The more you use it, the less likely accumulations will occur.....JK