Rubbing edge return to normal

[east coaster]

The photo illustrates my problem. Had to remove the rubber part (rubbing edge to me) to repair underlying Fiberglass, now have to get it back in position without destroying it or distorting the grey rubber. No it was not cut, simply pulled out of its aluminum frame to allow full access to complete the repair. How to attach something to the rubber and get it back in the aluminum guide. Waiting for a warm day here in Nova Scotia to help with pliability and stretch. Yesterday was 70 F and today is 45F with rain showers. Your suggestions are appreciated, thank you.

 

[Jim Legere]

Heat gun?

 

[dlochner]

The only solution is heat and tension. Gently warm the rubber with a heat gun, being careful to avoid burning or scorching it. The rubber has contracted along its whole length back to the last anchor point and will need to be warmed back to that spot. With the boat in the water, it will be more difficult.

I did this once on a Tanzer 22 which has a sizable rubber rub rail. We did it on the hard with me warming the rub rail and the biggest guys in the marina pulling on it. I was afraid we were going to pull the boat off of its cradle.