Z-Force inflatable by Zodiak??

[roscoe]

Nephew has asked me about a used Z-Force 9' inflatable, supposedly made by Zodiak.<br /><br />Anyone have any info?<br />What they are made of? pvc ? Hypalon ?<br />Are they any good?<br />Original price range?<br />All he really knows is that it has a removable floor.<br />Is this a decent little boat or a rubber raft?

 

[roscoe]

Re: Z-Force inflatable by Zodiak??

He said it was used twice when bought new about 9 or 10 years ago by his buddy, who is now selling it.

 

[bayman]

Re: Z-Force inflatable by Zodiak??

We probably need more information. Zodiac boats are made of PVC. Avon, owned by Zodiac makes boats out of Hypalon.<br /><br />I haven't heard of the Z-Force. If you could get the first 3 characters of the hull ID (on the stern) that would tell us for sure who made the boat. That could be the right name, I just haven't heard of it.

 

[navigator336]

Re: Z-Force inflatable by Zodiak??

Zodiac made lots of private label boats. I have one called a Pisces. There are all PVC. They are the same quality as the Zodiac branded products but usually are lacking a few features (seat mounts, oar holders, etc). Check the floor bond joint in the bow. I think 10 years ago Zodiac was using glue and it may be getting weak (easy to fix). The transom plate will say if Zodiac made it.

 

[roscoe]

Re: Z-Force inflatable by Zodiak??

Thanks for the input guys.<br /><br />Between me and my father, we convinced the nephew that a 12' aluminum would suit him better. Dad said he could have his, and I will be helping fix up the trailer a bit. I will also help him with a motor if he finds one to buy.

 

[stan_deezy]

Re: Z-Force inflatable by Zodiak??

A very wise move Roscoe. 9ft inflatable is a cheap way into boating but an even cheaper way into a whole world of trouble if you don't know what you're doing. <br />12ft ally boat will be a good boat to learn the ropes on.

 

[coleman kayak1]

Re: Z-Force inflatable by Zodiak??

yeah, aluminum is much more durable then rubber. Also easier to mount accessories such as lights, depth finders, etc.