Vintage mask preservation question

[BigMike]

I have a USD equinaso mask that the rubber is starting to get hard. The skirt is OK for now but I was wondering if there are any products out there that I can use to recondition/preserve the rubber. I really like the mask and it fits my big mellon quite well. McNett has a few products that seem like that they would work including a rejuvenator spray (was this what A-Rod and Clemens were using ). I would appreciate any and all suggestions. Looking forward to SDX. Mike

[antique diver]

I have had "some" success with McNett's UV Tech product for softening old stiffening rubber goods. The cracks aren't going to disappear, but it has made some things more usable or comfortable by keeping them wet with the product for a few days or more... even going so far as to keep the wetted rubber piece in a zip-loc bag with a few spoons of the UV Tech to keep everything saturated.

Others have highly recommended 303 Aerospace Protectant (available at West Marine), and after using it some as a preservative, I think it may be almost the same thing.

There is just no way to get old hardened rubber completely back to its original state, but one the these products might get your mask back to a useable state. Good luck, and please let us hear about your results.

[BigMike]

Thanks for the info. The mask hasn't started to crack yet and I want to try and keep it that way for as long as I can. I like the idea with the ziploc bag. I'll give it a try. I have heard of people using something on their drysuit seals to keep them supple. I'll let you know how it works. Mike

[swimjim]

I have original masks that I still use and really like. However, I also own one of these and it seals on my odd ball mug just great!

http://www.vintagedoublehose.com/index. ... id=8327166

[antique diver]

Thanks for the info. The mask hasn't started to crack yet and I want to try and keep it that way for as long as I can. I like the idea with the ziploc bag. I'll give it a try. I have heard of people using something on their drysuit seals to keep them supple. I'll let you know how it works. Mike

Just to clarify... I don't store the stuff permanently in bag with liquid UV Tech or 303 in it, but did that for up to a week just to soften the rubber. It may not be good for it to permanently store it wetted in the solution. I just don't know about that, but long term storage in a dry zip lock bag might be a good thing.

[Nemrod]

The only way to preserve vintage rubber products is not to use them. Clean with warm water and Dawn, lubricate with 100% food grade liquid silicone, dust with talc and put in a bag in a cool dry place. Check on it every few years.

I have so many bits and pieces of vintage rubber, split, tear, or go to dust in the sun like a 1,000 year old vampire, I no longer bother with the stuff. If I cannot count on it then I cannot use it or have use for it.

Nem