Caring for Your Highfield RIB: Simple Maintenance Tips for Longevity & Performance
There’s something special about owning a Highfield RIB—the perfect blend of rigid hull stability and inflatable tube versatility. But here’s the thing: even the toughest boats need regular TLC to keep performing at their best, and a little preventive care now can save you hundreds (or thousands) down the road.
Essential Maintenance Routines for Your Highfield RIB
Your Highfield rigid inflatable boat is built to handle serious conditions, but salt, sun, and neglect are its worst enemies. Whether you’ve got a Highfield Classic 360 or a Patrol 660, these maintenance habits will keep your RIB running smoothly for years.
Cleaning Your Tubes: More Than Just Appearance
Those Hypalon or PVC tubes aren’t just for looks—they’re what give your RIB its legendary buoyancy and shock absorption. After every saltwater outing, rinse the tubes thoroughly with fresh water. Salt crystals act like tiny abrasives, breaking down the fabric over time.
Here’s a pro tip I learned from a marina owner in Charleston: Use a soft-bristle brush with mild boat soap once a month, working in circular motions. Harsh chemicals or pressure washers can actually damage the tube’s protective coating.
For stubborn stains or fish blood (we’ve all been there), a solution of vinegar and water works wonders. Mix it 50/50, apply with a sponge, let it sit for five minutes, then rinse clean. Your tubes will thank you.
“The biggest mistake RIB owners make is ignoring small abrasions on the tubes. A tiny puncture caught early takes 10 minutes to patch; ignored, it becomes a costly tube replacement.”
Hull Care: Protecting Your Investment Below the Waterline
The fiberglass or aluminum hull on your Highfield needs attention too. After each trip, especially in saltwater, hose down the entire hull. Pay extra attention to the transom area where the outboard mounts—corrosion loves to start there.
Every few months, inspect the hull for:
- Gelcoat cracks or chips (fiberglass models)
- Oxidation spots (aluminum hulls)
- Loose or missing drain plugs
- Signs of osmosis (small blisters in fiberglass)
If you spot gelcoat damage, don’t wait. Grab a marine gelcoat repair kit from West Marine or your local chandlery. Sand the area lightly (220-grit), apply the gelcoat, let it cure, then polish. Costs about $25 and takes 30 minutes.
For aluminum hulls like those on Highfield’s larger patrol models, apply a protective coating like Sharkhide or Marine-Tex annually. This creates a barrier against saltwater corrosion and keeps the metal looking sharp.
Engine and Fuel System: The Heart of Your RIB
Your outboard motor—whether it’s a Yamaha, Mercury, or Honda—needs consistent care. Here’s what separates weekend warriors from serious boaters:
Flushing the Engine: After every saltwater run, connect a flush muzzle to your engine and run fresh water through the cooling system for 10 minutes. This prevents salt buildup in the cooling passages that can lead to overheating.
Fuel Stabilizer: If your RIB sits for more than two weeks, add fuel stabilizer like STA-BIL Marine to your tank. Ethanol fuel can separate and gum up your carburetor or fuel injectors in as little as 30 days. I learned this the hard way when my engine wouldn’t start after a month-long vacation—cost me $400 in repairs.
Prop Inspection: Every month, check your propeller for:
- Fishing line wrapped around the shaft
- Bent or chipped blades
- Loose hub assembly
A damaged prop can reduce your top speed by 15% and increase fuel consumption significantly. If you notice vibration at cruising speed, pull the prop and inspect it immediately.
Valve Maintenance: Keep Your Tubes Properly Inflated
Highfield RIBs use high-quality Boston valves or Halkey-Roberts valves depending on the model. These need periodic attention:
Check tube pressure monthly using a marine inflation gauge. Most Highfield tubes operate at 2.5–3.5 PSI. Overinflation can stress the seams; underinflation reduces performance and handling.
Apply silicone grease (not petroleum-based) to valve threads twice a season. This prevents air leaks and makes valves easier to open. A small tube of Dow Corning marine silicone costs $8 and lasts years.
Fun fact: Temperature changes affect tube pressure more than most people realize. A tube inflated to 3 PSI in 60°F morning air can hit 3.8 PSI by afternoon when it’s 90°F—that’s why experienced RIB owners check pressure before each launch.
Highfield RIB Maintenance Comparison Table
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Impact If Ignored |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tube Cleaning & Inspection | After Each Use | $15 (soap/brush) | $75–$150 | Premature fabric degradation, staining |
| Hull Wash & Wax | Monthly | $30 (supplies) | $200–$400 | Oxidation, reduced resale value |
| Engine Flush | After Each Saltwater Use | $25 (flush kit) | $50–$80 | Overheating, expensive engine damage |
| Valve Service & Pressure Check | Monthly | $10 (gauge/grease) | $60–$100 | Air leaks, tube failure |
| Propeller Inspection | Monthly | Free | $80–$150 (removal) | Vibration, fuel waste, shaft damage |
Annual DIY Maintenance Cost Comparison ($USD) – Interactive 3D View
Trailer and Storage Considerations
If you trailer your Highfield (and most owners do), maintain your trailer with the same care as your boat. Bearing buddies should be packed with grease every spring. Check tire pressure before each tow—underinflated trailer tires cause more accidents than most people realize.
When storing your RIB:
- Deflate tubes slightly (reduce pressure by about 25%) for long-term storage
- Cover the entire boat with a breathable marine cover
- Store in a dry, shaded area if possible
- Remove the battery and store it on a trickle charger
Always check your trailer lights before heading to the ramp. Nothing’s more embarrassing than holding up the line because your brake lights don’t work.
Winterization: Preparing for Cold Weather
If you live where temperatures drop below freezing, proper winterization is critical. Drain all water from the engine using the drain plugs on the block. Run antifreeze through the cooling system. Fog the engine cylinders with storage oil.
For the tubes, clean them thoroughly, ensure they’re completely dry, then apply a UV protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant. This prevents sun damage during storage and keeps the fabric supple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I professionally service my Highfield RIB? Most manufacturers recommend annual professional inspections. A qualified marine technician will check things you might miss—like seam integrity, valve seals, and hidden hull damage. Budget $300–$500 for a thorough annual checkup.
Q: Can I use regular car soap on my RIB tubes? Don’t risk it. Automotive soaps contain degreasers that can strip protective coatings from Hypalon or PVC. Stick with dedicated marine cleaners like Star brite or 3M Marine—they’re pH-balanced for boat fabrics.
Q: What PSI should my Highfield tubes be inflated to? Check your owner’s manual, but most Highfield models run 2.5–3.5 PSI. Never exceed the maximum listed on the tube itself. When in doubt, slightly underinflated is safer than overinflated.
Q: How do I know if my tubes need professional repair? Small surface scratches are normal. But if you see bubbling fabric, seam separation, or hear air hissing, that’s professional territory. RIB repair specialists use heat welding and specialized adhesives that DIY kits can’t match.
Q: Is it worth applying ceramic coating to my RIB hull? For fiberglass hulls, absolutely. Products like Nasiol Marine create a hydrophobic barrier that makes cleaning easier and protects against oxidation. Costs $150–$300 professionally applied but lasts 2–3 years.
Q: Can I leave my RIB inflated on the trailer year-round? In moderate climates, yes—but reduce pressure by 20% and use a quality cover. In extreme heat or cold, deflate partially. Constant sun exposure on fully inflated tubes accelerates fabric breakdown.
Q: What’s the biggest maintenance mistake Highfield owners make? Ignoring small problems until they become expensive ones. A $15 tube patch becomes a $600 tube replacement. A $30 impeller becomes a $2,000 engine repair. Stay ahead of issues with regular inspections.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your Highfield RIB doesn’t require a marine engineering degree—just consistency and attention to detail. Spend 30 minutes after each outing on basic cleaning, do monthly inspections, and handle small repairs immediately. Your RIB will reward you with decades of reliable performance.
The beauty of RIB ownership is the freedom it provides. Whether you’re chasing striped bass, exploring hidden coves, or just enjoying a sunset cruise, a well-maintained boat means more time on the water and less time (and money) at the repair shop.
What’s your go-to maintenance routine? Have a clever RIB care tip we didn’t cover? Drop a comment below—the boating community thrives when we share knowledge!
References:
- Highfield Boats Official Maintenance Guide
- BoatUS Foundation Marine Maintenance Resources
- West Marine Rigging & Maintenance Tutorials
- National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Care Guidelines
