Jib zipper

I recently bought an 18 for parts, etc.. And it came with some extra sails. One of the jibs is in better condition than the one I currently use but it is missing the slide (not sure of the right word) part that zips. The zipper tracks on either side seem to be in good condition. A local sail shop quoted me like $160 to fix it. Is there anyway to fix it without replacing the whole zipper assembly? I'd like to use it but don't want to put that much money in it, seems like a lot to me.

Hope this makes sense

Ouch! I agree, that seems like a lot of money especially considering a new Hobie 18 jib zipper from Murrays is less than $25. Of course you do have to sew it in but still. It sounds like you just need a new slider (you were close). You might try a place like Jo-Ann Fabrics. You might have to buy the whole zipper (get a short one) to get a new slider but it shouldn't cost more than a few bucks.

HTH

http://www.zipperrescue.com/
JT

_________________
Enjoy every sandwich- Zevon

Been there, done that. Beacon Fabrics has the zipper and UV thread you need, and your local seamstress can handle the sewing part. No need to go through a sail loft. The zipper and special thread cost me roughly $25 shipped and the sewing was another $40. If I had a machine, I would have sewn it on myself. See TBone's second reply in the post below. Thanks again, Tbone!.....

http://www.hobiecat.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=29372&hilit=tattered

I did the zipper myself as well. Came out fine. Was worth putting the money I saved somewhere else on the boat.

Thanks for the tips. I'm going to see if I can find someone to sew it around here. May try that Zipper rescue first though.

Yea I did the new zipper install myself. I purchased a heavy duty needle (a few bucks) that would fit into the sewing machine I had. It was a tad slow going as the machine struggled once or twice but it worked. It's been 3-4 years and all threads are intact with the zipper working fine.

Happy holidays!
t-bone