New Speed Tubes

[D_Wilson]

My MK II C is now 10 years old and the speed tubes are developing leakes at the seams. I found a cheap fix. I put Goop right on the seam/leak and in a day it's set up nicely. Since the tubes aren't seen, I'm not worried about asthetics. However, I'd like to purchase a new set of speed tubes for next season. Does anyone know of a good place to buy from? I currently live in Canada, but have family in the USA and can have them shipped there as well. Ideas? Thanks.

 

[frednick1]

Re: New Speed Tubes

Hi,

What are SPEED TUBES?

I have a 1985 Cadet 310 that I got this summer and am just learning about Zodiacs and PVC materials. I have repaired mine with Goop, too, and it seems to be working ok so far. Have you ever used GOOP for any other repairs on your PVC boat?

Does GOOP hold PVC well when it's seam to seam and structural damage that is being repaired? I think it's ok for small patches and leaks.

I have used it on a HYPALON Achilles and that worked fantastic for leaks and structural repairs. It's well over 5 years and going strong.

Checkout:

http://www.fredfamily.org/~nrfred/photos/zodiac_repair_small/

I did all of that with GOOP. It took a while to do since I had to do it in stages and let it set each time. I am gratified to hear that you have used it, too.

Show your repairs on this site if you can.

Frednick1

 

[D_Wilson]

Re: New Speed Tubes

Speed tubes are used on some models of Zodiacs to help with planing and stability during turns. All of the Futura models have them. Basically they are two sheaths built in the hull (left and right) and then two tubes (look like long noodles maybe 7 feet in length) are placed inside the sheaths and inflated. So looking at the boat from underneath it looks like two noodles on the left and right. In the attached picture you can see the speed tubes just beneath the main tubes (they are black).

Yes, the goop takes a good day to set up, but it works well on the seams. They are non critical points and are totally hidden, so I "gooped" it on pretty thick.

My boat is ten years old and it looks as if someone else had made a previous repair on the speed tubes using goop or something like it. I like that it stays flexible but is very sturdy.

Your transom repair looks great. I am also new to Zodiacs and I'll be taking it to Offshore Marine in Toronto at the end of the season for a full inspection and repair. I already have my wallet out as I know it will be pricey, but I really do enjoy the boat where I'm out and figure it's worth it.

 

[frednick1]

Re: New Speed Tubes

Hi again,

Thanks for the informative reply. I would like to have some of those speed tubes. Good luck with your repair. Post your results.

Frednick1

 

[deejaycee_2000]

Re: New Speed Tubes

The are called hi-jackers here in South Africa and are basically recommended for all inflatables with a 6hp motor and up ..... as the stability is unbelievable, more speed, turns better and sort out cavitation problems etc ...... it is not recommended that you replace old ones yourself as it is a delicate process to correctly install them .....

 

[D_Wilson]

Re: New Speed Tubes

The are called hi-jackers here in South Africa and are basically recommended for all inflatables with a 6hp motor and up ..... as the stability is unbelievable, more speed, turns better and sort out cavitation problems etc ...... it is not recommended that you replace old ones yourself as it is a delicate process to correctly install them .....

I believe speed tubes are not the same as "hi-jackers". Speed tubes are not add-on accessories. They are part of certain models including all the Futura series. I have had my speed tubes out several times. They are very simple to remove and replace. I just need to get new tube inserts because mine are old and the seams are continuously springing leaks.

The las repair I made is working fine and will hopefully last me through this season.

 

[deejaycee_2000]

Re: New Speed Tubes

good luck .....

 

[mrhelper]

Re: New Speed Tubes

D_Wilson...

You say speed tubes are easy to remove. I have a Futura that I bought used, so I don't have the manual. One of my speed tubes leaks - losing most of its air within a few hours. I have wanted to repair it, but I can't figure out how to remove them. Any hints???

 

[D_Wilson]

Re: New Speed Tubes

D_Wilson...

You say speed tubes are easy to remove. I have a Futura that I bought used, so I don't have the manual. One of my speed tubes leaks - losing most of its air within a few hours. I have wanted to repair it, but I can't figure out how to remove them. Any hints???

Yeah, they are very easy to remove and replace.

1. Take off the valve cap.
2. Remove the valve insert.
3. Then you either need a large socket head or (like me) use a decent pair of channel lock pliers to remove the valve seat (female end). It turns counter-clockwise to loosen. You'll then be able to push the male end down and pull the speed tube out the back. It reassembles the same way in reverse.

I orderd some rubber gaskets from a dealer because I had air leaking right on the valve seat. You may need to do the same. I also use a bit of Permatex #2 on the assembly when I put it back together. It helps seal and is easy enough to remove.

One of my tubes is still leaking so I'm looking to replace them both after the season ends (one more month here). If anyone knows of the cheapest place I can get them I'd appreciate the tip.

Good luck and post your results.