canopy zippers

dtaves · Posted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 12:57 am Post subject: canopy zippers

After about 3-4 years and a half dozen uses one of my zippers is stuck with the teeth broken. I don't remember the name of maker but it was one we found many C-Dory owners used to have a stand up canopy that completely closed the back of a 22 footer. I think it was in Ballard or near there in Seattle on the shipping canal. Anybody recognize the outfitter or ideas what to do to prevent more of the same problem?

Don Taves

Alyssa Jean · Posted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 9:26 am Post subject:

King Marine Canvas
(206) 283-9346
2600 W Commodore Way, Seattle 98199

Owners name is Dave

C-Hawk · Posted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 10:11 am Post subject:

Preventative maintainance--- I use candle wax on the zippers to help keep them working smoothly. Smile

dtaves · Posted: Mon Dec 19, 2005 10:16 am Post subject: canopy zippers

Thanks for the info on King marine canvas and the suggestion of candle wax.

Don Taves Smile

dtaves · Posted: Tue Dec 20, 2005 11:24 pm Post subject:

Dave at King Canvas was great, he will replace the defective zipper as a warranty.

Don Taves

cdlas · Posted: Tue Dec 20, 2005 11:44 pm Post subject: Zipperss and snaps

I have found a silicon grease that is available at the auto-parts stores that I use. As I recall it comes in a 2oz. tube. I use it on snaps as well to keep salt -water or weather at the coast from making them difficult to use. Was told originally to use vaseline for it. Hope this is of help. Sounds like they are a good honest business.

Swee Pea · Posted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 5:00 am Post subject:

Just a note. I have been told that silicone will attack and eventually destroy thread, even if polyester or nylon. The best thing to use on zippers is wax. We use this on drysuit zippers.

Just my two cents.

John
Swee Pea

AstoriaDave · Posted: Wed Dec 21, 2005 8:48 am Post subject:

Another good source of zipper lube is kayak or dive shops, which sell it for use on dry suits. The lube is OK for use on rubber, etc., because it does not have any silicones in it.

The tube I've got is made by AquaSeal, as Zip Tech. It's a McNett product. Here's a link to info off the REI site: http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=47803335&parent_category_rn=40000253