How to maintain your aluminum folding kayak ?
Is an aluminium frame less resistant than a wooden frame?
A kayak with an aluminum frame is just as strong as a wooden frame. Tubes are anodized for better protection against corrosion and navigation in salt water.
Nevertheless, good maintenance is essential. Here are a few tips to apply to your aluminium folding kayaks such as the Raid 325 or the Narak Cross range of kayaks.
- Don’t leave your kayak continually assembled.
Disassemble it at least once a month and carefully lubricate joints and sliding rings with a silicone lubricant.
If you do not do this regularly, you may not be able to disassemble tubes due to salt and alumina deposits.
Cleaning your aluminum-frame kayak
- Periodically, remove the frame from the hull and clean the hull of accumulated sand and gravel.
- Wash your kayak with clear water when you use it in the sea and let it dry, assembled, turned over, and floats deflated.
- Remove any salt that may accumulate on the frame and wipe it with a silicone cloth.
Periodic minor maintenance work is better than major late maintenance.