Dry Top and 303

[teleboater5.13]

I heard that you are supposed to put 303 on the gaskets about once a month during use. I was wondering if this was true or not. Also I was wondering if you needed to put it on even during the winter when you are not using it.

[gh]

If you are anal, I am, then yes. Check out Kokatats website, i think that is where i saw it.

[rasdoggy]

here is the link
http://mountainbuzz.com/viewtopic.php?t=7141


If you dont think you need to 303 talk to a shop about replacing your gaskets.

[surfboy]

303 lubricates and conditions the latex with silicone.
Time is not as much of a factor as the condition of the latex regarding 303 treatment.
Your best bet is to keep an eye on the appearance of the latex gaskets, if the get dry, grippy, or turn dull or gray then it is time to condition the gaskets.
Be sure not to use anything solvent based like Armorall.

By keeping the gaskets slick and shiny black, you will ensure that they are well conditioned which will add to their longevity, but also make then easier to put on and remove since they will be less likely to grip at your skin or hair. this also putts less stress on the gaskets and makes irritation at the neck and adams apple less likely.

You should store a drytop in a cool, dry and dark spot. Hanging it in a closet covered in a plastic bag will do this and reduce Ozone exposure that also causes latex breakdown.
There should be no need to retreat gaskets during a short winter.

John Mason
Mountain Surf

[samknox]

Originally Posted by surfboy

303 lubricates and conditions the latex with silicone.


John Mason
Mountain Surf

John,

Not to be argumentative, but what's your source for the silicone content of 303?

I've looked at the website and read the MSDS for "Aerospace Protectant" and I'll be damned if I can find any listing of ingredients at all, silicone or otherwise.

Sam Knox

[Swim team capt.]

Learning something new today...

The box that the big bottle of 303 comes in says "303 does not contain silicone oils, waxes,glycerin or petrolem distillate."

Hmmmm

Well its what we use/sell here on drytop gaskets and for years I used McNetts "Silicone Spray" to keep our drysuit gaskets soft.