In response to the many comments about how my gear seems to last
a lot longer than others, I plan to start sharing some of my
secrets.
#1 - wetsuit repairs
Loctite Clear Silicone Household Silicone Adhesive/Sealant,
available at WalMart, $2.94 for a 3 oz. tube, has proven an
excellent alternative to Aquaseal and the other silicone repair
stuff at yer local dive shop, and much cheaper.
It appears to be a bit thinner than Aquaseal, but has proven at
least as tough in recent short-term tests (long term follow up
to come).
Remember to lay a beveled bead along the edge of yer patch with
a toothpick (contrary to the instructions on the tube). For
areas that won't lay flat, cover with a piece of waxed paper and
hold down with a 2# soft weight.
Store all silicone adhesives in yer freezer.
And pick up those expensive dive-shop gloves when yer friends
throw em away: the thin neoprene on the back is the very best
for patches.
keep yer gear handsome
esg
bullshark - 26 Sep 2006 16:11 GMT
Tip #1a: No neoprene divesuit is worth repairing after about 1-200
dives (depends on depth dived). The insulative cells get crushed, and
your 3mm becomes a 1mm. Cheaper suits die quicker in my experience, but
that's subjective.