Vanguard KD 300 User manual

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VANGUARD
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OWNER´S MANUAL _ I N G –REV.J 06/22
OWNER´S MANUAL
Models:
KD 300
DR 400
TX 540
TL-620
KD 340
DR 450
TXA 750 D
TB 470
DR 500
TX 750 D
TB 600
DR 560
TX 760
DR 660
TX 860
DR 760
TX 10.0
DR 830
TX 12.0
DR 900

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OWNER´S MANUAL _ I N G –REV.J 06/22
www.vanguardmarine.com

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OWNER´S MANUAL _ I N G –REV.J 06/22
INDEX
1. INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................5
2. INFORMATION ABOUT THE RIB..........................................................................6
3. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS OF USE ANDMAINTENANCE............................7
3.1 USE OF THE RIB...........................................................................................7
3.1.1 BOAT TUBE............................................................................................7
A. AIR TUBE.......................................................................................................7
B. FOAM TUBE...................................................................................................9
C. HYBRID TUBE ...............................................................................................9
3.1.2 FUEL TANK.............................................................................................9
3.1.3 ENGINES..............................................................................................10
3.1.4 BATTERY..............................................................................................11
3.1.5 DRAINAGE............................................................................................12
3.1.6 BILGE PUMP.........................................................................................12
3.1.7 HANDLING ADVICE..............................................................................12
3.1.8 BEING TOWED.....................................................................................14
3.1.9 TOWING................................................................................................14
3.1.10 LIFTING WITH A CRANE......................................................................15
3.1.11 LIFTING WITH DAVIT...........................................................................15
3.2 RIB MAINTENANCE.....................................................................................15
3.2.1 PERIODIC MAINTENANCE ..................................................................15
3.2.2 INSPECTIONS......................................................................................16
3.2.3 SALT WATER CORROSION.................................................................16
3.2.4 CLEANING............................................................................................16
3.2.5 HULL MAINTENANCE ..........................................................................16
3.2.1 KEEL MAINTENANCE ..........................................................................17
3.2.2 PAINTS .................................................................................................17
3.2.6 MOTOR MAINTENANCE ......................................................................18
3.2.7 STAINLESS STEEL...............................................................................18
3.2.8 FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE.....................................18
3.3 RIB REPAIR......................................................................................................18
3.3.1 SMALL REPAIRS ON THE FLOTATION TUBE..........................................19
3.3.1.1 AIR FLOAT............................................................................................19
3.3.1.2 FOAM TUBE..........................................................................................19
3.3.1.3 HYBRID TUBE ......................................................................................19
3.4 RIB MODIFICATION.....................................................................................20

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4 SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS.........................................................................21
5 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS..............................................................21
5.1.1 OIL AND FUEL SPILLS.........................................................................22
5.1.2 UNLOADING AND DISPOSAL OF WASTE...........................................22
5.1.3 WAKES AND EDDIES...........................................................................22
5.1.4 EXHAUST FUMES................................................................................22
5.1.5 PAINTS .................................................................................................22
5.1.6 CLEANING PRODUCTS .......................................................................22
6 GUARANTEE......................................................................................................23
6.1 COVER.........................................................................................................23
6.2 GUARANTEE CONDITIONS........................................................................23
6.3 EXCLUSIONS ..............................................................................................23
7. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS..........................................................................25
7.1 RIB TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS............................................................25
7.1.1 KD AND TB SERIES...................................................................................25
7.1.2 DR SERIES ................................................................................................26
7.1.3 TX/TL SERIES............................................................................................27
7.2 MANUFACTURER’S PLATE ........................................................................29
8. AFTER-SALES SERVICE AND FUEL POLICY AT VANGUARD MARINE ..........30

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1. INTRODUCTION
This manual has been written to help you use your boat safely and to your
satisfaction. It includes details of the RIB, the equipment supplied or installed, its
systems and information about its operation, adjustment, maintenance, risk
prevention and risk management. Please read it carefully, and familiarize yourself
with the RIB before using it.
This owner's manual is not a course in boating safety or a sailing course. If this is
your first RIB, or if you have changed to a RIB which you are not familiar with, for
your own safety and comfort make sure you get some experience in handling and
use of the RIB before taking over command. Your vendor/sales office/distributor,
sailing federations or sailing clubs will be delighted to recommend local sailing
schools or competent instructors.
Make sure that the expected wind and sea conditions correspond to the design
category of your boat, and that you and your crew are able to safely steer the boat in
these conditions.
Even though the RIB may be of the corresponding category, both sea and wind
conditions corresponding to design categories A, B, and C vary from very rough
weather for category A, to severe sea conditions for the top of category C, beside the
danger of abnormal waves or wind gusts. These are therefore dangerous conditions,
in which only an experienced crew, in good shape and trained, handling a well
maintained boat, can navigate satisfactorily.
This manual is not a detailed maintenance or repair guide. In case of difficulty, please
contact the boat builder or the boat builder's representative. If you have been
provided with a maintenance manual, use it for this purpose.
Always use the services of an experienced and competent professional for
maintenance, as well as for repairs or modifications. Modifications that may affect the
safety characteristics of the boat must be evaluated, executed and documented by
competent personnel. The boat builder cannot be responsible for modifications that
the boat builder has not approved.
In some countries a driver's license or authorization is required, in addition to specific
regulations and transportation requirements that may be subject to local regulations.
Always maintain your boat properly, and be aware of deterioration due to ageing, and
excessive or inappropriate use.
Any type of RIB, no matter how strong, can be seriously damaged if misused. Inspect
your boat regularly, especially if you suspect damage. Always adjust the speed and
direction of the boat to the sea conditions.
If your RIB is equipped with a life raft, read its owner's manual carefully. The boat
should have on board the appropriate safety equipment (life jackets, harnesses, etc.)
according to the type of boat, weather conditions, etc. This equipment is mandatory
in some countries. The crew should become familiar with the use of all safety
equipment and with emergency maneuvers (falling of persons into the sea and re-
boarding, towing, etc.). Sailing schools and clubs regularly organize training
sessions.
All persons should wear a suitable personal flotation device (life jacket/personal
flotation device) when on deck. It is noted that in some countries it is mandatory to

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wear a personal flotation device that complies with national regulations. PLEASE
KEEP THIS MANUAL IN A SAFE PLACE, AND GIVE IT TO THE NEW OWNER IF
YOU RESELL THE BOAT.
In addition to this manual, specific manuals for optional equipment will be supplied
with the boat where applicable (engines, electronics, navigation, etc.).
If you have any difficulty, VANGUARD MARINE, LDA will be delighted to advise you.
KEEP THIS MANUAL IN A SAFE AND SECURE PLACE. IN CASE OF SALE, GIVE IT TO
THE NEW OWNER.
THIS MANUAL IS WRITTEN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ISO-10240
2. INFORMATION ABOUT THE RIB
The CE mark indicates that the RIB satisfies all present ISO norms and all directives
in force at the time of manufacture.
RIB DESIGN CATEGORY
Oceanic –Category A: A RIB designed to operate in winds under force 10 on the
Beaufort scale, and with corresponding significant wave height.
NOTE These conditions can normally be found on long trips, for example
across the oceans, but can also occur on coastal trips when there is no wind or wave
protection for several hundred nautical miles. Depending on the weather conditions,
wind gusts can reach up to 32 m/s.
High sea –Category B: A RIB designed to operate in winds of force equal to or less
than 8 on the Beaufort scale, and corresponding significant wave height which can
reach 4 m.
NOTE These conditions can normally be found on deep sea voyages of
sufficient duration, but can also occur in coastal waters where shelter may not always
be immediately available. These conditions can also be found in inland seas of
sufficient length to produce waves of the above-mentioned height. Depending on
weather conditions, wind gusts can reach 27 m/s.
Coastal waters –Category C: A RIB designed to operate in constant wind
conditions with force equal to or less than 6 on the Beaufort scale, and corresponding
significant wave height which can reach 2 m.
NOTE These conditions can normally be found in exposed inland waters, in estuaries and in
coastal waters with moderate weather conditions. Depending on weather conditions, wind
gusts can reach 18 m/s.
Sheltered waters –Category D: A RIB designed to operate with constant winds
usually equal to or less than 4 on the Beaufort scale, and the corresponding
significant wave heights can reach 0.3 m, with occasional waves of 0.5 m
NOTE These conditions can normally be found in protected inland waters, in
estuaries and in coastal waters in good weather. Depending on the weather
conditions, wind gusts can reach 12 m/s.

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Throughout this manual the following degrees of danger will be indicated:
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury. This signal word should be limited
to the most extreme situations.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE: Indicates information that is considered important, but is not
related to a hazard, e.g., related to property damage.
3. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS OF USE AND
MAINTENANCE
3.1 USE OF THE RIB
3.1.1 BOAT TUBE
Your boat can be equipped with any of the following flotation systems: (Air tube,
Foam tube, Hybrid tube with both system). Follow the recommendations on the
following sections when those correspond to your craft and do not take into
consideration those that are not applicable.
All other indications and recommendations in this manual are applicable to any
type of tube described regardless of which one has been installed on your boat.
A. AIR TUBE
To inflate the RIB, use the pump supplied. Before connecting the pump to the
valve, check the central pin is raised outwards (valve closed). If it is not, press
lightly with a finger and turn to the right.
Once the RIB is inflated, remove the pump tube and adapter and replace the
valve cap.
NOTICE –Never use compressed air systems for inflation: this could
damage parts of the flotation tube and even cause it to burst.

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The flotation tube is composed of a number of independent chambers. It is
MANDATORY to respect the order of inflation as indicated below:
NOTICE - First inflate the stern chambers and move forward, alternating
between starboard and port side chambers, always finishing with the bow
chamber.
The RIB’s flotation tube pressure is 20.000 Pa. Maintain this pressure to avoid
damage to the tube. Remember that the tube air pressure varies proportionally
with the temperature by 3 millibars per each degree centigrade of temperature
increase. This therefore means that placing the RIB on the water lowers the
pressure, and the same happens at night. However, being in the sun for a long
time, especially on land, causes an increase in tube pressure which must be
take into account. So:
NOTICE –If the RIB is going to be left in the sun for a long time, reduce
the
air pressure to compensate for the tube’s expansion.
To deflate your RIB, remove the valve cap, press the pin and turn until it is in the
OPEN position and fixed. When the RIB is completely deflated, free the pin and
replace the valve cap.
SAFETY RELIEF VALVES (optional)
If your RIB has safety relief valves, these will function automatically when the air
pressure reaches 24.000 Pa, thus
protecting the tube from possible
deformation or bursting. It is vital to follow
the correc oedrer of chamber inflation so
that the safety valves may protect the
tube when there is an increase in
pressure.
NOTICE –Even if the tube has safety valves, the previous
recommendations on inflating and deflating of the tube should still be
followed.

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B. FOAM TUBE
Tube with high density foam core covered with fabric. The foam consists of a
single block made up of several pieces bonded to each other and covered with a
layer of the same material as on the air tube, this material also serves as the fixing
system for the whole tube to the hull. In this system the inflation and deflation
process described in paragraph A above is not applicable as this tube system
does not have air chambers or inflating/overpressure valves. This tube, being filled
with foam, shall not be affected in its flotation capacity in the event of damage
caused by punctures or partial tears.
However we recommend the repair of any damage suffered although it has not led
to loss of flotation capacity in order to keep the whole in good condition.
C. HYBRID TUBE
The Hybrid Tube consists of a series of internal air chambers depending on the
length of the boat, covered with high density foam. This combination is covered by
a layer of outer fabric of the same material as the tubes described in paragraphs A
and B above.
For the use of the vessel and its tube apply the information described in points A
and B above.
3.1.2 FUEL TANK
WARNING - As a general rule:
Portable fuel tanks should be fastened down in order to
avoid blows and possible breakage while under way.
If there is a closed compartment for the portable fuel
tank(s), this must be well ventilated, far from any heat
source, and free of any type of electric accessory or part.
On refuelling, switch off the engine and, if possible, take
the tanks out of the RIB. Always refuel in the open air and
far from any heat source, sparks etc.
Do not fill the tanks to the full as the fuel increases its
pressure as the temperature rises. This may cause an
excess of pressure in the tank, making it break.
Do not store fuel tanks in compartments not specifically
designed for them.

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WARNING - NOT COMPATIBLE WITH E-10 GASOLINE
The fuel system is not compatible with E-10 Gasoline or other Ethanol
Gasoline type, due to the potential negative effect that Ethanol can have on
the entire fuel system.
- Deterioration of elastomers and plastic parts
- Deterioration of the fuel tank and hoses
- Corrosion of metal parts
- Possible wear and damage to internal parts of the not compatible motor
- Possible start-up and operation difficulty of the not compatible motor
3.1.3 ENGINES
For engine installation, use and care, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
However, also follow these points:
WARNING
RUN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT EXHAUST FAN FOR THE PRESCRIBED
TIME, WHERE APPLICABLE (GASOLINE ENGINES)
MAKE SURE THE MOTOR COOLING CIRCUIT IS WORKING PROPERLY
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH FUEL FOR YOUR TRIP
AVOID CONTACT OF FLAMMABLE MATERIALS WITH HOT ENGINE
PARTS.
RESPECT THE PERCENTAGE OF OIL IN THE FUEL
WHEN THE INSTALLATION OF THE MOTOR REQUIRES THE USE
OF BOLTS, SEAL AND PROTECT THE HOLES WELL WITH
SIKAFLEX.
INSTALL THE MANUFACTURER- RECOMMENDED WASHERS ON
THE INNER SIDE.
PLACE THE ENGINE CENTERED WITH THE MIDSHIP LINE AND
ALIGN THE CAVITATION PLATE WITH THE KEEL OF THE HULL (THIS
HEIGHT CAN BE ALTERED TO IMPROVE PLANING PERFORMANCE).

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AVOID MAKING NOISE AND WAVES NEAR OTHER USERS AND
RESPECT SPEED LIMITS.
USE THE CORRECT OIL MIX IN THE FUEL.
NOTE If the boat has an inboard motor, keep the bottom taps closed when not
in use in order to reduce the risk of flooding (e.g. water entering the toilets)
3.1.4 BATTERY
If necessary, install the correct battery for your motor and requirements.
Read the manufacturer’s use and maintenance manual.
CAUTION - Take special care:
Choose a no-maintenance certified marine battery.
Do not place the battery in the same compartment as the fuel
tank(s). If there is no other compartment, keep them as far apart as
possible with liquid proof separation between them and make sure the
compartment is well ventilated.
Place the battery in a water tight compartment thus protecting the
terminals and making it easier to control and recover any accidental acid
spill, dangerous both for the RIB and people. Maintain the exterior clean
and dry.
Always recharge the battery out of the RIB, in a well ventilated
place on land.
Avoid generating sparks or flame near the battery as it emits
flammable hydrogen gas during charging and for 15 minutes afterwards.
In case the wires are not long enough, avoid joining wires together.
Install longer, thicker wires.
Do not work with the battery over a charged A/C system.

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3.1.5 DRAINAGE
The RIB has a self-draining system consisting of one or two holes with plugs in
the transom. Every time the RIB is on land, water must be drained by taking
out the plug(s). The water will drain by itself and any water remaining can be
taken out by bucket or by lifting the RIB at the bow allowing water to flow
through the holes.
CAUTION - Make sure the holes are plugged, CLOSED, while the RIB
is stopped.
NOTICE - It is the owner/user’s responsibility to have a bucket or
similar (tied up, to prevent accidental loss) so as to be able to bail
out any water shipped during sailing.
If your RIB is kitted out with an elephant trunk drain, water can be drained on
land or while under way at sea by lowering the trunk. The water will flow out
freely. The trunk must be pointing upwards if the RIB is not moving while
afloat.
3.1.6 BILGE PUMP
If your RIB has a bilge pump, read the manufacturer’s use and maintenance
manual.
Note - Check the operation of each bilge pump at regular intervals. Clean the pump
inlets of any debris that may clog them. If valves are present in the fore and aft
bulkheads, they should remain closed, and should be opened only to allow bilge
pumping in the main bilges.
3.1.7 HANDLING ADVICE
The skipper is in charge of the RIB and has to check that everything is in good
order before setting off. He must check the load, fuel, state of the motor(s) etc.
When under way, no one may sit on the bow. Avoid standing up and wear a
life jacket at all times.
At all times check that the load is distributed evenly so as not to provoke listing or
excessive trimming.

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The operator's view from the steering position can be obstructed by big trim
angles and due to one or more of the following variable conditions:
- Propulsion unit trim angle (on boats with propulsion unit trim control device)
- Flap trim angle (on boats with flap actuators or with flaps on the mirror)
- Load and load distribution
- Speed
- Fast acceleration
- Transitioning between displacement mode and planing mode
- Sea state
- Reduced visibility (i.e. due to rain, darkness and fog)
- Interior lights
- Position of awnings and curtains
- People or moving elements in the operator's field of vision
CAUTION - THE VIEW FROM THIS GOVERNMENT
POSITION IS LIMITED. MAINTAIN THE NECESSARY
VIGILANCE.
WARNING –Never load the RIB beyond the recommended
maximum weight. Always load the RIB with care, distributing the load to
maintain the ideal trim (roughly horizontal). Avoid placing heavy objects
high as this reduces the RIB’s stability.
Adjust speed to the sea state and wind conditions. In heavy seas, reduce
Speed and steer the RIB to reduce wave impact.
DANGER –Beware of winds and currents in coastal waters
The helmsman must avoid heavy blows by foreseeing the behaviour of the
waves. The crew may suffer wave impacts more violently or even fall
overboard. Breaking waves are a serious threat to the RIB.
NOTICE - Before setting out to sea, make sure you have on board all
the safety equipment as required by your state, e.g. life jackets, flares,
anchoring/mooring equipment etc.
Avoid making waves when approaching other RIB and on leaving or entering
port. Always respect speed limits and all signs and signals.

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DANGER - VERY IMPORTANT! Never forget to have your man-
overboard alarm device firmly fixed somewhere in your clothing
(though not on your wrist) before getting under way.
If at any moment the engine should fail, control the RIB in such a way that it
goes neither further out to sea nor towards dangerous rocks or cliffs.
This RIB can be handled with oars, especially when mooring or beaching. To
handle the RIB well and to keep on course, use short, quick and constant
strokes.
WARNING - When under way, keep all hatches closed to prevent water
getting in and to reduce the risk of flooding. Flooding of the hull could
capsize the RIB.
Do not operate at maximum speed in crowded waterways with heavy traffic or
in weather and sea conditions of reduced visibility, high winds or large waves.
Reduce speed and wake, out of courtesy and as a safety precaution for
yourself and others. Observe and obey the speed limit and no wake zones.
Comply with priority rules as defined by the route rules and imposed by
COLREG.
Ensure that sufficient distance is always available to stop or manoeuvre if
necessary to avoid a collision.
Do not operate this craft with an engine with a rated power greater than that on
the boat’s builder plate.
3.1.8 BEING TOWED
If and when it is necessary for your RIB to be towed at sea, before staring the
maneuvers check that all on-board equipment is well tied down and, if
possible, remove the outboard motor.
The RIB has a mooring eye at the bow to which the tow line must be firmly
attached. Do not use any part of the flotation tube or any of its handles etc. for
towing or mooring as this could seriously damage the tube.
The RIB must never be towed at more than 8 knots. Always check to see that
no water is shipped.
DANGER- There must be no one on board during this maneuver!
When towing the RIB on land, check that the central rollers of the trailer are
correctly supporting the keel. Adjust the side supports to prevent any shifting
of the RIB. Do not forget to tighten all tethers. Do not leave weighty objects in
the RIB during towing as they could damage the hull and provoke cracks.
3.1.9 TOWING
The RIB has two towing eyes on the transom to tow another craft if need be.
Make sure to keep a safe distance between the two craft to guarantee
manoeuvrability. Avoid fouling the propeller with the tow ropes; this can cause
serious damage.
The RIB’s stability may be affected when towing another craft.

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3.1.10 LIFTING WITH A CRANE
WARNING - If your RIB has crane lifting eyes, follow these steps:
- Adjust the straps so that the RIB maintains a horizontal position while suspended.
- Place protection between the straps and hull to prevent damage.
- Use belt straps of 130mm minimum width.
- Do not stand under the crane or suspended RIB.
- Never raise the RIB with people or cargo on board, nor if full of water.
- Use guide ropes fore and aft to control the RIB’s movement at all times.
- Once the RIB is out of the water, leave all drainage holes open.
3.1.11 LIFTING WITH DAVIT
WARNING - If your RIB has davit lifting eyes, follow these steps:
- Consult the manufacturer or seller as to whether the davit system is right
for the RIB.
- Only ever use the davit lifting eyes to hook the davit wires: never use any
other part of the RIB.
- Do not stand under the davit or suspended RIB.
- Never raise the RIB with people or cargo on board, nor if full of water.
- Use guide ropes fore and aft to control the RIB’s movement at all times.
- Once the RIB is out of the water, leave all drainage holes open.
3.2 RIB MAINTENANCE
All maintenance and repair work must be carried out by qualified personnel.
Before carrying out any change, modification or any other alteration of the RIB,
check with the After-Sales Service: the RIB could lose its guarantee.
3.2.1 PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
- Clean the hull twice a year.
- Frequently clean the non-slip areas with a soft liquid detergent.
- When not in use, cover the RIB with a canvas or tarpaulin.
- Check the state of the drainage holes; check they are not blocked.
- Check the state of the cleats and other mooring fixtures.
- Check the state of the fuel filter and change the filter at the start of each
sailing season.
- Change the motor oil and cooling liquid at least once a year.
- Check the battery levels and add distilled water to cover the plates. Keep
the contacts clean and covered with grease or vaseline.

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SPECIFIC WARM CLIMATE MAINTENANCE
To lengthen the working life of your RIB in warm climates and/or areas of high
UV radiation, it is advisable to use a boat cover when the RIB is not in use. For
best results, apply 303 Aerospace Protectant once or twice a month. If in
doubt, consult the RIB manufacturer or official sales office about this
treatment.
3.2.2 INSPECTIONS
- Always have a visual check of the RIB before launching:
- Check all screws, nuts and bolts etc. are tight.
- Check there are no leaks in tubes, joints, tanks etc.
- Check the state of all circuits and wiring.
- Check the steering system.
- Inspections must be carried out at the beginning of each sailing season
and periodically during the season.
3.2.3 SALT WATER CORROSION
The RIB must always be cleaned with fresh water immediately after sailing in
salt water. If the RIB is used mainly in salt water, polish the hull every month
and apply an anti-corrosion product on all metal parts.
If the RIB is going to be stowed away, all water must be taken out, it must be
cleaned with fresh water and then dried before being deflated.
3.2.4 CLEANING
- As far as possible, avoid using cleaning products, and never pour them in the
water.
- Preferably, clean the RIB on shore.
- Avoid rubbing the hull: use a high-pressure water cleaner.
- Do not use abrasive cleaning products, solvents, ammonia or chlorine.
WARNING - While cleaning, be careful not to slip on the soap’s foam.
Do not wax or polish the rough parts or parts normally used as floor or deck, or
v the gunwales.
3.2.5 HULL MAINTENANCE
The gelcoat is sensitive to any blow or scratching. Handle the RIB with great
care. Always have at hand some form of hull protection.
Light scratches can be eliminated by using a car polisher.
If the scratches do not disappear when being polished, it will be necessary to
sand them lightly with a water sander. Before sanding, clean the area
carefully. After sanding, clean the area and proceed to polish it.
In the case of a deep scratch as a result of n impact:
- Clean and sand the damaged area and clear alldust.
- Prepare the necessary gelcoat.
- Apply the gelcoat with a spatula and level the surface.
- Cover the area with cellophane. Remove when dry.
- Sand the repair with a water sander, then polish.

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The gelcoat colour may show changes of colour or shine, or staining. To avoid
these changes, apply a small amount of polish. Fuel stains can be removed
with products bought in a gas station.
The hull must be painted with an anti-incrustation product.
NOTICE
- Do not clean with a sandblaster.
- Do not use any solvent other than alcohol.
- Do not use high-pressure water warmer than 15ºC.
- Do not use high-pressure detergents.
- Do not use a scraper.
- Do not polish too strongly.
3.2.1 KEEL MAINTENANCE
The accumulation of marine vegetation and incrustations on the hull produces
resistance and affects the performance of the RIB. Never use wire brushes or
corrosive liquids on the hull: small scratches favour the accumulation of dirt.
Blistering of the gelcoat surface (osmosis) is a natural occurrence. With time,
blisters may appear in any gelcoat surface under water.
The best way to prevent the occurrence of osmosis blisters is to minimize the
time the RIB is in the water.
3.2.2 PAINTS
Usually this type of boat spend most of their time out of the water, therefore
the use of antifouling paints on the hull is not common. However, if it becomes
necessary, before choosing any antifouling, speak with other RIB owners or
with the vendor/sales office/distributor and/or a shipyard to check which
product would be the most appropriate for your area. At the same time, never
forget that this type of paint can be damaging to the flotation tube.
There are special paints for flotation tube protection. Consult the RIB
manufacturer or vendor/sales office/distributor for a correct assessment.

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DANGER!
RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION –The components of cleaning
products and paints can be flammable and/or explosive. They are
also dangerous to inhale. Make sure the work area is well ventilated
and that adequate clothing is used.
Before painting, check local and environmental regulations and carefully read
the product’s specification and instructions for use.
3.2.6 MOTOR MAINTENANCE
For correct maintenance of the motor, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
3.2.7 STAINLESS STEEL
To maintain the stainless steel and iron fittings of your RIB in perfect condition:
- Clean the stainless steel parts with soap and water frequently. Never use
abrasives, acids, bleach or steel wool.
- Clean rust stains immediately using chrome or brass polish. If this is not
done, the steel will become pitted with rust, impossible to eliminate.
- Use a high quality car polish to protect all stainless steel surfaces.
3.2.8 FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
The RIB user/owner:
- Must check the firefighting equipment at the stipulated intervals.
- Must replace both hand-held and installed systems that are out of date or
discharged. They must be replaced by systems of identical certification
and firefighting capacity.
If firefighting equipment is replaced, make sure you use certified products and
with the same denomination and with the same fire fighting properties
3.3 RIB REPAIR
Any repair on your RIB must always be carried out by a competent
professional.
Contact your vendor/sales office/distributor, who will give you the best advice,
parts and materials for the repairs you can carry out yourself. More serious
repairs
must only be carried out by authorized professionals. Vanguard Marine Lda
can provide you with lists of authorized people and boatyards.
If consoles or other parts not originally supplied with the RIB are installed, said
installation must be carried out according to Vanguard Marine Lda instructions.
New installations may affect the RIB’s stability.

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WARNING! –The installation of any and all elements after the
purchase of the RIB must be installed according to EN ISO 6185, in
such a way as not to invalidate the original certification.
Before carrying out any change, modification or any other alteration on the
RIB, contact the After-sales service to check what can be done without losing
the guarantee.
3.3.1 SMALL REPAIRS ON THE FLOTATION TUBE
3.3.1.1AIR FLOAT
Small punctures can be repaired easily with the repair kit following these steps:
- Check that all valves close and tighten well. Leaks may be due to a faulty
closure.
- If there is no valve leak, locate the leak by washing the tube in soapy
water. Mark with a pencil the places where there appear thick foam or
bubbles.
- To repair the puncture, deflate the tube and put the RIB in a shady but not
cold place.
- Clean the area to be repaired with alcohol; wait five minutes and cut a
patch 5cm wider than the damaged area.
- Apply a very thin amount of glue to both surfaces, spreading it well. After a
few minutes, join two surfaces together very firmly, using a round-headed
instrument so as not to damage the tube.
- Place a weight or a tourniquet over the patch for at least four hours. Do not
use the RIB during this time.
3.3.1.2FOAM TUBE
Damages in this type of tube are not critical with respect to buoyancy but it is
recommended to make the relevant repairs in order to keep the product in
general good condition.
For repairs of the foam covering fabric proceed as in paragraph 3.3.1.1 above:
- Clean the part to be repaired with alcohol, wait 5 minutes and trim a patch
that exceeds about 5 cm the damaged part.
- Apply a very thin amount of glue to both surfaces, spreading it well. After a
few minutes, join two surfaces together very firmly, using a round-headed
instrument so as not to damage the tube
- Place a weight or tourniquet in the patch area for a minimum of four hours.
Do not use the boat during this waiting time.
For cases where the failure has resulted in a small loss of foam mass :
- In case of foam loss, place silicone so that the surface is uniform, leave it
dry for 24 hours and repeat the above processes.
3.3.1.3HYBRID TUBE

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The repair concerning the foam part is the same as described above 3.3.1.2.
In case of damage on the inflatable core the repair must be done in the
shipyard or in an authorized after sale service.
3.4 RIB MODIFICATION
All modifications that may affect the safety characteristics of the RIB must be
evaluated, carried out and documented by competent personnel. Vanguard
Marine Lda cannot be held responsible for any modification not approved by
Vanguard Marine Lda.
Under the scope of the European directive 2013/53 we reproduce the
following whereas and articles included in the directive due to their special
interest in relation to the commercialization of boats and modifications to them:
Whereas:
(16) Any economic operator that either places a product on the market under
its own name or trademark or modifies a product in such a way that
compliance with the applicable requirements may be affected should be
considered to be the manufacturer and should
assume the obligations of the manufacturer.
(29) It is crucial to make clear to manufacturers, private importers and users
that by affixing the CE marking to the product, the manufacturer declares that
the product is in conformity with all applicable requirements and takes full
responsibility thereof.
Article 11
Cases in which obligations of manufacturers apply to importers and
distributors
An importer or distributor shall be considered a manufacturer for the purposes
of this Directive and he shall be subject to the obligations of the manufacturer
under Article 7, where he places a product on the market under his name or
trademark or modifies a product already placed on the market in such a way
that compliance with the requirements of this Directivemay be affected.
NOTICE
Therefore and in accordance with the European Directive 2013/53 in
whereas (29), the CE marking reflects the manufacturer's certificate of
conformity. However, in accordance with Articles 7 and 11, in those cases
where an economic operator carries out significant conversions on the original
boat, he shall assume the obligations of the manufacturer, rendering the
original declaration of conformity invalid.