Tips on rubber rub rail install

[JFoshee]

I am ready to reinstall my old vinyl or rubber? in my aluminum rub rail. I'm not sure I am labeling these items correctly, but I'm calling the aluminum piece that screws to my boat the rub rail and the rubber piece that goes inside it the insert. The rub rail is on. I'm looking for tips on installing the insert. I want to reuse the old one.

 

[mark mcj]

Re: Tips on rubber rub rail install

I haven't done this myself, but from what I've read, warm the insert up in the sun and use a heat gun to help keep it soft. Install the top edge with your fingures and use a putty knife to push the bottom edge in. A rubber mallet is also listed as part of the tool kit.

http://www.iboats.com/rub_rails/rigid.html

 

[JFoshee]

Re: Tips on rubber rub rail install

Thanks. I call myself searching for it, but did not find that.

 

[fire7882]

Re: Tips on rubber rub rail install

I'm not sure how yours is designed but I was able to slide the insert in from one end of the rail and feed it all the way around the boat. Older inserts can be harder than new ones making them difficult to install the way described above. I made sure the rub rail was very clean and used car wash soap as a lubricant so it would wash away easily.

It went on easily for the first half but needed a little patience to finish it up. took me about 20 or 30 minutes if I remember correctly.