Keeping RIB in fresh water

[SkiPharmer]

I just bought a 9 foot West Marine (Zodiac Group) RIB with a fiberglass floor for $100. The guy just wanted to get rid of it! Great deal but one of the tubes has a leak in it. I plan on getting it fixed this winter professionally. In the mean time I can pump it up with a foot pump in less than a minute and it is good for 8-10 hours. I plan on keeping it in the water behind my 330 DA (we boat in MN, so freshwater). I plan on just pumping some air into it each time i want to use it. Any problems or issue with doing this? The hole is above the water line.

Also, I am looking at a 4-6HP motor. I am not looking to go fast as I will use it mainly with my 2.5 year old little boy.

Thanks!

 

[Molson]

It should be fine, will just get scummy on the bottom.

 

[b_arrington]

If you know where the hole is, putting on a patch is pretty easy. I'd think it would save some aggravation to take care of it now.

The boat will likely perform better with the tubes at design pressure. You loose a lot of efficiency even with they are a bit soft.

Since you'll be leaving the RIB out in the weather and the Zodiacs are PVC, pick up some inflatable boat protectant. It's like sun screen for the boat and will extend the life of the PVC.

Lastly, have fun with your boy! RIBs and kids go great together - I run all over the harbor (and into Long Island Sound) exploring with my kids.

 

[Boatingnut]

Plenty of folks will bottom paint their dinghies to keep them clean on the bottom. Paint will adhere just fine.