Can you clean sun tanned fenders?

[SandgroperWA]

Hi folks I have left my navy and white inflatable fenders too long in their bow rail baskets and the white parts are now a yellow brown colour like rust. Is there a way to make them like new again or do I use the dark towelling covers so they look good and dont mark the hull of my boat when it is against a jetty or another boat and using them? Cheers from down under.

PS I wish we had a web forum like this down here!

 

[johnalison]

If the usual cleaners don't work I'd have a go with Y10 or Yachticon's Anti-gilb or similar oxalic-based product.

 

[Playtime]

Hi folks I have left my navy and white inflatable fenders too long in their bow rail baskets and the white parts are now a yellow brown colour like rust. Is there a way to make them like new again or do I use the dark towelling covers so they look good and dont mark the hull of my boat when it is against a jetty or another boat and using them? Cheers from down under.

PS I wish we had a web forum like this down here!

I gave up trying to keep mine clean and used the DIY stocking type fender socks . If you are careful (and don't have a rolly permanent pontoon berth) they last 2 or 3 seasons and can look quite smart if done properly. The fenders should then last indefinitely (if the valves don't go).

 

[Quandary]

After exposure to the sun the fenders will eventually discolour and go sticky. Severe solvents like acetone followed by household cleaners will remove a lot of it but they will soon go back to tacky and streaky brown again. If you don't want to replace them then easier to cover them, don't use red as it will fade rapidly too.

 

[Malish]

The best cleaning agent I have found for fenders is swarfega - if you have some to hand it might be worth a try

 

[AndieMac]

PS I wish we had a web forum like this down here!

Tell me about it......if its not fishing out of tinnies or 4 wheel driving, it seems the aussies don't want to know about it.

I agree with Quandry.

Long term, why not store the fenders in a locker and only take them out when you are going to use the boat.

 

[SandgroperWA]

I am more of a boater than a fisher these days but still love to fish when the weather is good for it. nothing like sitting on the back of the boat at rottnest island with a fresh l;obster and a good wine, cheers!

 

[AndieMac]

You could find the motor-boat forum pretty interesting as well.
I read yesterday about your 41Bs', there is massive amounts of knowledge over there regarding engines, gearboxes etc, etc...

You can also use the search facility about any specific issue.

Good luck

 

[Jim@sea]

"MOONFIRE" suggested using Swarfega. Which prompted me to post a blog "How to make your own Swarfega"