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Pedal powered, fiberglass pontoon boat GlasSkipper
We also provide CUSTOM Machine Shop Services
Can I use the ProPhish human powered boat drive on other manufactures kick boats?
Yes in most cases you can. If you already have a kickboat you can buy the drive and the universal frame adapter, to convert your boat for use with our pedal drive system. In some cases you can modify your existing frame for use with our drive. Contact us about which frames can be modified.
Can the WaterSkipper be used in salt water?
Sure. We do recommend that you rinse it with fresh water before storing the boat. For full time salt water use we are planning offering an full stainless steel and bronze drive, the cost is higher of course so we don't plan to build all of our drives that way.
How long does it take to set the boat up?
What you have is four joints held with pin clips on the frame. The pontoons are fastened to the frame using four nylon straps. It takes about 1 minute per item depending on how fast you are moving. So by the time you carry the separate items to the setup site and inflate the pontoons, it usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Taking the boats apart takes about half this time for most folks.
What kind of maintenance is normally required on the WaterSkipper?
Aside from keeping the pontoons in good shape. ie: Removing all dirt and crud before rolling or folding them up; inspecting for punctures, rips, or badly scuffed areas; Make sure the valves are not damaged or leaking. The pedal drive gearbox is fully sealed and lubricated. The gear lube should not need changing for years, if ever. The aft drive joint gets the most wear and should be inspected annually. The propellor blades can get dinged up and can be filed if need be. Of course if you do need replacement parts we do sell them.
What kind of warranty do you offer and how long is it?
The drive gearbox has a two year parts and labor warranty. The drive shaft and steering knuckle have a one year parts and labor warranty under normal use. The pontoons have a six month warranty against seam and valve failure under normal use.
Can I leave the boat outside?
Yes you can, but like most items they give more years of service if they are kept inside when not in use. The pontoons and the seat are made from plastic and even though they are UV protected it is still best that they not be stored in prolonged sunlight.
I have wanted to make a boat something like yours for years. Can I buy some of my components from Prophish?
We will sell most of our parts on a custom basis. Contact us if you have further questions.
I would like to have a custom pedal boat made for me. Do you make custom boats?
Yes, in most cases we can customize one of our existing boats for you. Or if you are really looking for something different we will consider almost anything, if you are willing to pay for our time to prototype and build it for you.
Can I get different colored pontoons?
Sure, but since we have to buy special material there is a cost difference.
Do I have to take the boat apart to transport it?
No you don't. But you should let some air out of the pontoons. This prevents the pontoons from over pressurizing due to changes in elevation and or barometric pressure. The maximum allowable air pressure is 4 psi.
How would I patch my pontoon if I get a leak?
That depends on the size of the hole in the inner bladder and outer shell. If, as is most common, you get a pinhole from a pointed object. The procedure is as follows: Unzip outer bag, remove most of the inner bladder, leaving valve attached, inflate bladder just enough to allow you to find where the air is leaking, clean area around the hole in the urethane bladder, make sure area is completely dry and place a piece of duct tape or good electricians tape over the hole pressing it firmly around the edges. Reinsert inner bladder into outer shell making sure you don't twist or wrinkle the inner bladder. Zip up outer shell and lock zippers. And you are ready to go.
If you have tear in the outer shell you may need to stitch a patch over it, on the inside. If the tear is through both the inner and outer layers. You may need to weld a patch over the inner bladder or return it to us for repair or replacement.
However you can use one of these boats for years on a wide variety of waters and never get a leak, if you use simple common sense and avoid those things and areas that are likely to puncture your boat.
Do I need to carry a paddle or oar?
On most waters in the US you are required to have two ways of moving your water craft. You need to be aware of what the laws are where you intend to use the WaterSkipper. It is simple to attach an oar or paddle to the frame to meet this law or you can carry a pair of flippers since you can move the boat with them, traveling backward only.
Do I need to wear a life jacket?
On most waters you do, it is really up to you to know the laws in your area and how they apply to using any boat on the water.
We recommend that you always wear a good fitting coast guard approved life vest anytime you go boating. And if you are river running through white water wear a helmet, the type used on kayaks. Never take chances with your life on the water. Since boating on any water is inherently dangerous we strongly suggest that you use every precaution and take extreme care of yourself.
Simply put, don't put yourself at risk doing something you are not prepared for.
Can I carry a cooler on the WaterSkipper?
Sure, we recommend one you use one made from fabric, you can find them almost anywhere. If you can't find one let us know. These are easy to strap onto the frame and cause no wear on the pontoons.
Can I attach a bag to the WaterSkipper?
Sure, just strap it on. We can supply these if you need something customized, but in most cases any sporting goods store or department store will sell a wide variety of bags to choose from. Attach it to the boat frame where it sits on top of the pontoons, using nylon straps or rope. We don't recommend using elastic cords with metal hooks.
If you have a question, don't hesitate to contact us.
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WaterSkippers handle like a sports car, great in tight spots
Pedal boat