Replacing the tube on your Zodiac RIB - complete guide

Replacing the tube on your Zodiac RIB may seem like a challenging job, but with the right preparation, parts and method you can do it yourself. Below you’ll find a clear step-by-step explanation, specifically for Zodiac RIB models with a keder/rail system. This guide helps you remove the old tube safely and fit the new tube correctly.

1. Preparing the new tube

Unpack the new tube carefully, preferably on a soft surface such as blankets or a tarpaulin. Inflate the tube well so its shape becomes visible and the tube returns to its original form.

Important for PVC tubes:
The keder (slide-in string) may stick to the tube slightly due to transport. Carefully free it so it can move freely in the rail during installation.

2. Removing the old tube

a. Let all air out

Deflate the tube completely and keep the valve inserts pressed in. This allows any remaining air to escape during removal.

b. Detach the bow end

At the bow side there is a flap that secures the tube to the hull.
Use an Allen key to loosen the bolts and keep all parts together carefully.
On larger Zodiac models, additional stainless-steel plates may be used; keep these parts as well, as you will need them for installing the new tube.

c. Detach the stern end

At the rear, the tube is usually secured with a tube retainer in the upper recess of the hull. Carefully remove it.

d. Pull the tube out of the rail

Start from one stern end and pull the tube gradually towards the bow.
Is it difficult? Dried dirt may be stuck between the keder and the rail. Loosen it with water or some soapy water.

e. Pull alternately on both sides

Pull each side forward bit by bit, alternating for an even movement. This allows the tube to come out of the rail without damage.

3. Cleaning the hull rail

Now that the tube has been removed, clean the rail (recess in the GRP hull) thoroughly. Remove sand, salt and old dirt residues. Then apply soapy water (soft soap) in the rail; this makes fitting the new tube much easier.

4. Preparing the new tube for installation

Deflate the new tube completely and make sure all valve inserts are open. This helps the tube slide more smoothly into the rail and prevents unwanted tension during installation.

5. Preparing the stern end

At the stern end of the tube there is a small loop on each side. If required, attach a strap or thin cord to it. This allows you to pull the tube back more easily in the rail later on.

6. Installing the new tube in the rail

• Place the new tube at the bow end of the boat on a soft surface.
• Start at one stern end by sliding the keder into the rail.
• Once one side is partly in the rail, repeat this on the other side.
• Pull the tube further back, alternating side to side.
• The last section may be a bit difficult; keep pulling steadily without forcing it.

Attention!
Before you pull the tube fully into position at the stern, the fixing flap at the bow end must be mounted back onto the hull. Only then can you pull the tube completely aft.

Fitting the tube retainer:
At the rear, refit the tube retainer into the upper recess.
On older Zodiac PRO models there is no tube retainer, but a fixing flap with a strap. Attach this to the fixing point on the transom plate.

7. Inflating the new tube

Inflate the tube in the correct sequence and to the specified pressures. Always start with the forward air chambers. This automatically positions the tube around the hull and prevents folds or tension.

With this step-by-step explanation you can easily replace the tube on your Zodiac RIB yourself. Want to order a new original tube? At Zodiac Online Shop you’ll find official Zodiac tubes & technical support.