Zipper Lube

[Anthony P. Jeske]

Hi:
As a transplanted Milwaukeean, all my previous sailing had been on freshwater Lake Michigan. Now I'm enjoying the salty waters of San Diego, but am encountering new, to me, problems. I'm discovering that the plastic YKK zipper on the sail cover is stiff and balky, probably from salt buildup and perhaps some ultraviolet degradation. Can you suggest a "zipper lube" that will get me slip sliding away?
Regards,
Tony Jeske



ajeske@ixpres.com

[Serge Zimberoff]

Tony,
There is a product (with a mildly revolting name) that is made for plastic to plastic. Used extensively by the mountain bike crowd for internal plastic part lubrication, it is called 'JohniSnot'. (Spelling?). Most top line bicycle shops carry it. If you can live with the name, I think you will be pleased with the performance.
Serge



serge@srtrop.com

[Olli Wendelin]

Rinse thoughly with fresh water, dry, and rub on bee's wax, which you can get from a hardware store. This is what I has taught to use for dry suit zippers, which are very critical (and expensive). Other lubricants make the teeth slide better, but also make it easier for the teeth to slip out of the fabric.

Olli Wendelin
BLUE MOON
Charleston, SC



wendelin@spawar.navy.mil

[M. R. Bober]

Startbrite makes a product called "Zipper Lube". I have used it for several years and its seems to work. It is also a great gag gift.
M



thebobers@erols.com