Repairing Guides

how to repair pontoon tubes

by Octavia Graham MD Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How to Repair a Damaged Pontoon

  1. Bend or cut off any shards of aluminum that are jutting out of the repair area. ...
  2. Measure the area to be repaired. You will need a patch of aluminum at least twice the size of the affected area.
  3. Fit the aluminum to the repair area. Bend the new piece to match the curves of the pontoon.
  4. Drill a hole in each corner of the patch. Match the hole to the size of the snap rivets. ...
  5. Place the aluminum patch over the repair area again. Mark where the rivet holes in the patch line up with the pontoon.
  6. Coat the repair area on the pontoon with the epoxy solution. Allow this to dry, if needed, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  7. Apply the epoxy sealant to the inside of the aluminum patch.
  8. Set the aluminum patch over the repair area, making sure to line up the holes in the patch with the rivet holes in the pontoon.
  9. Drill additional rivet holes through the patch, approximately 1/2 inch away from the outside edge and into the pontoon to strengthen the patch.
  10. Apply additional epoxy to the patch edges. Allow this to dry.
  11. Test the pontoon for leaks. Always use the proper safety equipment when working with power tools. ...

Part of a video titled Super Easy Pontoon Boat Repair DIY with HTS-735-11
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In this irrigation line overhead there's a lot of your problems are going to be underneath when you'MoreIn this irrigation line overhead there's a lot of your problems are going to be underneath when you're up against the rocks that will hold on the bottom or a crack. So we have the rod works overhead.

Full Answer

How to clean pontoons with toilet bowl cleaner?

Items you will need

  • Hose or pressure washer
  • Toilet bowl cleaner
  • Bucket
  • Large sponge

Is there way to clean the pontoons?

Yes, cleaning pontoons with toilet bowl cleaner is safe and easy, and the simple process can get your boat looking as good as new in just a short amount of time. So if you’re ready to scrub away at that gunk, here’s everything you need to know on how to do it right.

How to clean your aluminum pontoons?

What You’ll Need for Polishing Pontoons

  • Step One: Strip off the Old Coat The first thing you want to do is remove any previous protection coats with lacquer thinner. ...
  • Step Two: Remove All Buildup After the pontoons dry off, feel for any slag – rocky deposits – that have built up on the pontoon. ...
  • Step Six: Apply Protectant

How to repair a pontoon leak?

Things You Need to Repair a Pontoon Leak

  1. Cut Any Aluminum on the Repair Area. You need to remove any aluminum parts that are preventing you from having an easy repair. ...
  2. Measure the Leaking Area. You should have a patch of aluminum material twice the size of the affected area. ...
  3. Fill the Aluminum Piece into the Leaking Area. ...
  4. Make Holes in Each Corner of the Patch. ...

More items...

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What are pontoon tubes filled with?

1. Tubes: Leaks, Discoloration, and Marine Growth. The tubes, or toons, of a pontoon, are the true heart and soul of the boat. They're typically made out of aluminum and are filled with air.

Will JB Weld work on a pontoon boat?

I tried some of the low temp aluminum brazing rods, but there is just too much surface area on the pontoon log for my little torch to heat. The J-B Weld 8272 MarineWeld Marine Epoxy worked great. It mixed well, spread smoothly and evenly (I used a plastic putty knife), and cured without any issues.

Can you repair aluminum pontoon?

Also it is easy to use anyone can repair aluminum with HTS-735-11. The fishing or hunting trip is not over because of a hole, leak or even a chipped aluminum boat prop.

What are the metal tubes on a pontoon called?

Generally speaking, it's any sort of boat with a large, flat deck that's mounted atop two or more metal tubes called pontoons.

What J-B Weld is best for aluminum?

For a reliable aluminum epoxy that can handle medium- to heavy-duty jobs, the J-B Weld KwikWeld epoxy has a 5,020 PSI rating and withstands temperatures of over 500 degrees Fahrenheit, making it an ideal option for cars, RVs, and boats.

How do you fix a cracked pontoon boat?

0:0011:48Super Easy Pontoon Boat Repair DIY with HTS-735-11 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIn this irrigation line overhead there's a lot of your problems are going to be underneath when you'MoreIn this irrigation line overhead there's a lot of your problems are going to be underneath when you're up against the rocks that will hold on the bottom or a crack. So we have the rod works overhead.

Will flex seal work on a pontoon boat?

Flex Seal Liquid bonds well with aluminum, making it an excellent option for pontoon boat repairs. Aluminum can corrode for numerous reasons causing pinholes, making pontoons susceptible to retaining water. Inspect your pontoon for any signs of corrosion or damage.

How do you weld an aluminum pontoon boat?

2:5717:11TIG Welding Aluminum Pontoon Repair Part 2 (Full Video) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGet some welds right here. Right here get it kind of shaped back and then i'll start to bend. ThisMoreGet some welds right here. Right here get it kind of shaped back and then i'll start to bend. This back into its uh straightened like position. And start laying more welds basically.

Are pontoon tubes pressurized?

What's the answer? Well, some pontoons are pressurized while others aren't. Some pontoon boats run on water displacement rather than air pressure. Many types of boats work on water displacement.

What size are pontoon tubes?

Tube Size. Pontoon boats may also be offered with a choice of tube diameter. Today many mid-size (20 foot long) and larger pontoons are offered with 25-inch diameter tubes, with an extra-cost option of 27-inch diameter tubes.

Should I fill my pontoons with foam?

The foam used to repair a pontoon boat leak comes in the form of a liquid. Once released from its canister, the foam expands and can easily fill the pontoon, eliminating any space for water to enter. Foam released into the cavity of the pontoon provides maximum buoyancy.

Can you buy just the pontoons?

Your imagination is your only limit. If you only need Pontoon Tubes, you can also buy a single unit or a pair directly from us at a great price. Want to Build A Boat? Call us now to Order or to Request a Quote!

What is the bladder on a pontoon boat?

Most pontoon boats have an internal bladder made of a lighter grade of material than the multi-dernier PVC exterior we actually see. On many boats, this is a polyurethane bladder, which can be easily patched.

What is a Renegade boat?

Outfitters “Renegade” boat, a nine-foot craft similar to many other models on the market, such as those made by Water Skeeter or Scadden Boats. You will need the following items:

How to repair a shard of aluminum?

Bend or cut off any shards of aluminum that are jutting out of the repair area. Wash off the area to be repaired with a mixture of dish washing liquid and water. Scrub with a wire brush and remove any debris. When the area is dry, apply a solvent with a rag.

Can rivets go through a pontoon?

If they're too small, the rivets won't go all the way through the patch and into the pontoon; and if they're too large, they won't provide a good seal. Use caution when drilling the holes to avoid disturbing any of the contours in the aluminum patch. File down any rough edges.

Can aluminum pontoons be damaged?

Moreover, they are usually relatively inexpensive and lightweight, allowing for easy transport and storage. Unfortunately, because of their lighter structure, the aluminum material can be damaged easily. Not to worry, though. Repairing a damaged pontoon is a process that can be done in an afternoon.

Tube Leaks

The tubes, or toons, of a pontoon, are the true heart and soul of the boat. They’re typically made of aluminum and are filled with air. They keep the boat afloat and take the brunt of the waves. Playing such an important role, it’s important to know what could potentially go wrong. The worst-case scenario would be to have leaky toons.

Discoloration

Another toon issue that’s very common is discoloration. Aluminum toons will oxidize in water. If you store the boat at the dock sitting in the water, the toons will oxidize quicker than if you store it on a lift. This is normal and unavoidable. Regularly cleaning of the toons will also keep them looking better longer.

Marine Growth

Cleaning marine growth off the toons is critical. This is the build-up that’s produced by marine life found in the water such as scum, zebra mussels, and so on. Too much marine growth on the toons can lead to performance loss and will cause you to lose speed while out on the water.

Where is the plug on a pontoon?

This is to mount a depth finder or speedometer. Many pontoons have a removable plug at the bottom of the tube. This is sometimes for pressure testing and handy for draining condensation from the tube.

What is the nose cone on a pontoon?

The front of the pontoon that cuts through the water is called the nose cone. There are different ways of forming the nose cone. The sharper the bow the better it cuts through the water. Spray shields near the top help deflect water. Some spray shields are welded on “fins” while other styles have the spray shield formed into the top ...

How big is a pontoon boat?

Older boats had 19” diameter, 21”, and then 23” diameter followed. Some modern boats have 25” and even 27”. We recommend boats with 23” diameter or larger for rebuilding .

Why are round tubes so popular?

Round tubes are the most common probably because it’s the easiest to roll and form. Each shape has unique performance and carrying capacity and manufacturers' sales brochures explain each of the benefits.

Do pontoons slide?

The idea is the more surface in the water, the better the pontoon will corner, not slide. Manitou Pontoon holds a patent on using a larger (deeper) center tube.

Is a pontoon round or round?

While most pontoons are round there have been different shapes for decades, with unique performance claims. This is the general way that pontoon tubes are made. It hasn’t changed much from the original old steel pontoons.

Where are the plugs on a pontoon?

In the water is more difficult. If there is no plug in the top at the rear to allow insertion of a rod to check, there are plugs along the top,between the top of the pontoon and the deck. Harder to get at and harder to get anything in to check.

How much water is in a tube without a leak?

If you can here it it is more than condensation, without a leak there is maybe 3 tablespoons of water in the air in the tube, it is getting in somehow.

How do I put a nut on a deck plug?

get some clear plastic flexible tubing and put a nut or other weight on one end that can fir thru the top plugs under the deck. Lower it to the lowest point it will go. Suck on it until you either see water coming or your sucking air. Put lots of anti-sieze on the plugs before putting them back in.

Do pontoons have holes?

Almost all pontoons have compartments with a bulk head at the nose cone and center, some have holes between the compartments and some don't. Alot of the leaks I find are on the brackets and water splashing up on the tube gets in, you will have to air chack the tubes to find it. L.

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