Life Span of Toon

[Huskertko]

Given reasonable TLC and upkeep, how long could I expect A pontoon boat to last?
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[TubeDude]

[cool][#0000ff]There are differences in materials and construction, and differences in water chemistry and climate. There can also be a big difference in the number of times you use it over time, and how you use it.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Good frames and covers will last many years. Urethane air bladders will also last longer than vinyl. The air bladders are the weak link in the equation. If you inflate, deflate and store them properly, they will also hold up for several years.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Just from a safety and peace of mind factor, I would probably not rely on one more than about 8-10 years. Since I put a lot of wear and tear on my gear, it would probably be replaced long before that.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Still...cheaper than a boat.[/#0000ff]
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[flygoddess]

[black][size 3]Everything TD said. My pontoon is seven years old. I use it a lot in the summer. I do try to refrain from dragging it along the ground and I do treat the outer cover with a sunblocker like 303 I think it is.[/size][/black]
[black][size 3]I do have the Urathane bladders with a heavy vinyl cover and I (except this last year) leave mine inflated through the winter. I have yet (knock on wood) to see it loose any air.[/size][/black]
[black][size 3]I will get more than TD's expected years out of this pontoon, not to mention the 15yr warranty on the new ones and life time on the bladderless. But keep in mind, these boats are in the $1,000. range.[/size][/black]
[black][size 3][/size][/black]
[black][size 3]So, it boils down to you get what you pay for. Or you could buy two of those $300. every three and a half years to match my seven.[laugh][laugh][/size][/black]
[size 3][/size]
[size 3]I paid the big bucks so I don't have to replace it after getting it all dialed in, plus I feel as safe as can be on the big waters.[/size]
[size 3]Not to say I won't buy something new for a change, but that I don't have to.[cool][/size]
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