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Replacing vinyl combing pads

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by CSkipR, Apr 29, 2011.

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  1. CSkipR, Apr 29, 2011
    #1
    CSkipR

    CSkipR Member

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    I'm replacing the vinyl combing pads on my Cabo. I ordered the new vinyl and will use the old foam as it is in excellent shape. The backing material is starboard and the original vinyl was stapled to the starboard and then bolted to the sides of the boat by the manufacturer. How difficult is it for me to staple the vinyl to starboard? Does it require a special stapler? I know the staples need to be stainless steel. thx
  2. Swamp fox, Apr 29, 2011
    #2
    Swamp fox

    Swamp fox Member

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    Get a pneumatic staple gun, similar to what you would use on crown molding, etc. The pressure will on the gun adjust for depth. That should work.
  3. Capt Bill11, Apr 30, 2011
    #3
    Capt Bill11

    Capt Bill11 Senior Member

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    Or if compressed air is not handy use an electric stapler. You can find Monel stables for them pretty readily.
  4. Fireman431, May 1, 2011
    #4
    Fireman431

    Fireman431 Senior Member

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    A pneumatic upholstery stapler with SS staples works best (I'm an upholsterer). If you don't want to pony up for one (anywhere from $75-$150), you may be able to rent or borrow one from a local upholstery shop. The alternative is to have them do it for you, but that defeats the purpose of DIY.

    Make sure you add the welting to the back (the cording). Rarely are fiberglass hulls truly straight and the welting fills in any gaps between the coaming pad and the hull. If you don't have a sewing maching or can't reuse the old welting, a shop will stitch it up for you very inexpensively. I do it all the time for people for free.

    A hand stapler may work, but you'll have to go behind each staple and make sure that it's buried properly or you may end up gouging the gelcoat.
  5. Capt J, May 1, 2011
    #5
    Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

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    It looks like you and Cskip are fairly close to each other.
  6. Fireman431, May 1, 2011
    #6
    Fireman431

    Fireman431 Senior Member

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    Nice catch. I didn't even note the location.

    CSkipR...PM sent to you...
  7. Fireman431, May 24, 2011
    #7
    Fireman431

    Fireman431 Senior Member

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    Just an update. I met with Cskip and his coaming pads are all complete and as good as new. Very nice guy. A pleasure to deal with.
  8. CSkipR, May 25, 2011
    #8
    CSkipR

    CSkipR Member

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    Larry,
    Thank you for the excellent job and outstanding service. It was also a pleasure from my standpoint. On any future canvas or upholstery work you will be my first call.
    Thanks,
    Skip