Caring for old rubber...

[mmcdanie]

I have an old oval seaview mask that is in fair shape. It still seals, however the edges of the rubber are a bit "wavey". I'd like to preserve it correctly but do not know if I should put anything on the rubber. What is the best way to preserve old rubber?
Thanx.

 

[KD8NPB]

McNetts UV Tech is what I use.

 

[Nemrod]

Frankly, in my opinion, other than as a collector item, ancient rubber goods are not satisfactory for SCUBA use when diving such that you need to count on your gear. Maybe in a shallow, benign environment or swimming pool.

I have used the 100% food grade silicone, rubbed/massaged in, followed by Aerospace 303 Protectant. Once it is gone wavy, that is because the rubber-neoprene is deteriorated and beginning to harden. Soon, just when you need it not to, it will rip wide open. That has been my experience with old rubber goods.

N

 

[trapezus]

All protective sprays have chemicals , after a while the material would be hardens.The best way is soft soap. Mix the water and apply rubber material . After dry with a cloth slightly.
Will remain a protective film layer over the material, If materials are collection items and a long time do not enter the water ,best protector this way .I do it as a chemical engineer.

 

[Sam Miller III]

I have several vintage mask that I keep stored in air tight, water proof WW11 50 Cal Ammo boxes. I only remove when sharing with a visitor or for a show display.

So far so good

SDM

 

[mmcdanie]

Thanks for the great advice


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[John C. Ratliff]

SDM, I think the WWII ammo cans may be a bit too narrow for some of vintage masks. There are now plastic boxes made specifically for masks, which are available at the LDS, which I think may be better for long-term storage of a mask. My concern about the ammo cans is that they may permanently wrinkle the mask rubber because of their narrow dimensions.

SeaRat