Upholstery .... care and repair

[zul]

I purchased a 1994 Sea Ray 180 early this summer. We keep it in the garage when not in use. The rear engine lid is in really good shape except for one long strip (4 foot long, 10 inches wide) near the back. There are several small and medium cracks forming. Is there any type of glue that can be used or suggested? I would hate to use tape?!? If these cracks continue to grow, the full repair will be painful, difficult and expensive for sure.

For the rest of the cushions / seats, I'm looking for a suggestion on a cleaner, spray foam or the like??

Happy boating!!

 

[On Holiday]

We owned a 2002 180 and it was a great boat for us. Can you post a picture? You may need to take it to a upholstery shop and have them recover the cushion.

 

[harleyman1975]

303 is the best SYSTEM for vinyl care I have found...not cheap but no where near as pricey as new upholstery.

 

[Scott Danforth]

contact your local automotive/marine upholstery shop over winter. you will get a much better price than during peak season.

 

[cwburkeva]

Cracking vinyl will eventually lead to replacement. If it was a single spot, a repair kit would work. If your crafty, sewing a new piece on, might work. I started vinyl restoration on my boat. I'm getting better as I move along in the project.

As for products, I have used several - Roll Off, 3M, etc, I finally rely on one cleaner - Starbrite stain and Mildew cleaner - it is good all around cleaner, just be sure to rinse with water. I follow up with West Marine Vinyl Protector.

Been doing this for 13 years, on both old and new vinyl.

Good luck!