Many people seem to think that a skin kayak requires a lot of maintenance. The key maintenance required is to lubricate the framework.
If salt water is left to evaporate off the framework, the salt tends to crystallize in the tubes and this makes disassembly very difficult, and sometimes impossible without damaging the framework.
To prevent this from happening, the joints should be well-lubricated with a lubricant (provided in every repair kit) when the boat is assembled. A small dropper tube of Bo-Shield T-9 is included in the repair kit. This is an excellent lubricant and protectant for the aluminum tubing. We have found larger aerosol containers at marine hardware shops. We have available 4 oz bottles of Bo-Shield. Another good lubricant is Super Lube. This is a gel, and we've found it at bike shops. Apply Bo-Shield to the tube joins and use for after-trip maintenance. Apply to a rag and clean the tubes, joins and inserts. Also, should a tube feel stuck, or not slide easily, this product will help as an additional lubricant.
NOTE: We have been advising people to lubricate their frame parts every two months. However, if you have one of our new Sealskin(tm) kayaks you will get much less sea water in your kayak. We suggest that if you are not rolling your kayak and are using your seasock, you may be able to leave your kayak assembled for longer periods. (When you roll, some water does come in under the lip of the sea sock). If you are getting sea water in your kayak you should re-coat with Bo-Shield T9 every two months.
Maintenance and repair items to have on hand:
- Bo-Shield T9, developed by Boeing
- Alternative: Super Lube
When storing the boat folded, make sure that the skin has been allowed to dry out completely. This is to avoid mildew. Any damage that may occur to frame, parts can be easily replaced.
That's it!
