Choosing a swimming pool for fishing or outdoor activities on the water always involves finding a balance between cost, load capacity and comfort. In this segment of the market, products that offer proven design solutions at an affordable price are a strong niche. Girgis 390It has become a popular choice among owners of small water bodies and amateur fishing in recent years.
The 390 model indicates the length of the hull, which makes it a medium-sized inflatable boat, a middle ground that allows two adult passengers to comfortably accommodate the required amount of equipment. Constructive simplicity This is combined with sufficient capacity, which makes the vessel attractive for a wide range of users.
Unlike cheaper models, the manufacturer relies on dense materials and proven methods of assembling seams. However, like any equipment, this model has its own nuances of operation that must be considered before buying. GirgisHow well is it worth buying this modification for your purposes?
Design features and materials of manufacture
The basis of reliability of any inflatable vessel is the material from which the cylinders are made. Girgis 390 It's not just a film, it's a complex composite, where a net of capron strands is embedded between the layers of polyvinyl chloride. reinforcement prevents the tension of the balloon under pressure and provides resistance to punctures.
It is important to note the density of the material. For this model, the declared figure often varies, but usually is about 750-850 g / sq.m. This allows the boat to maintain the rigidity of the shape even when fully loaded with passengers and the engine. The seams connecting the elements are performed by gluing the elements on a flap using two-component adhesive, which ensures high tightness of the joints.
⚠️ Warning: Despite the high density of PVC, the material fears prolonged exposure to direct sunlight when pumped. Leaving the boat ashore on a hot day, be sure to create a shadow or slightly eject the pressure to avoid straining the seams.
The bottom of the boat also deserves a separate consideration, as it directly affects the performance. Girgis 390 It can be equipped with a low-pressure inflatable floor (LDPB) or a rigid plywood floorboard. The first option provides maximum comfort and stability, the second one provides less weight and the ability to fold the boat into a more compact bag.
Dimensions, load capacity and capacity
The 390 in the model name clearly defines its length along the outer contour of 390 centimeters. The width is usually about 160-170 centimeters, which is the standard indicator for double vessels of this class.
Load capacity is a critical parameter that is often ignored by beginners. Girgis 390 It's usually around 600 to 700 kilograms, but it's a limiting load that the boat is still afloat, but the boat's sides are dangerously close to the water.
For comfortable operation, it is recommended not to exceed 70-80% of the maximum load capacity, this applies to the sum of the weights of all passengers, engine, fuel, anchor and tackle, exceeding this limit turns a confident boat into an unstable platform where any sudden movement can lead to a serious loss of life. flooding water.
Below is a table with indicative technical specifications that will help compare the model with competitors:
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 390 cm | Outward contour of cylinders |
| Width | 165 cm | The internal size of the cockpit is smaller |
| Load capacity | 700 kg | Depends on the thickness of the bottom. |
| Boat weight | 45-55 kg | Fully equipped with motor |
| Max, engine power. | 15-18 hp | Recommended 9.9 hp |
Embodiments for the transom part
The trans is the back of the boat, which is the main load of the engine. Girgis 390 A moisture-resistant plywood coated with the same PVC fabric as the cylinders is used, and the design provides for strengthening the engine attachment site with additional linings or inserts of composite materials.
There are two main types of transverses that can be found in this series: the first is the classic removable version, which is inserted into special pockets on cylinders. It is convenient for transportation, because it takes up less space in the trunk; the second option is integrated, which is an extension of the inflatable floor or hard floorboard, which provides a tighter grip on the motor.
The transom angle is usually adjusted by the stops on the engine's lower unit, but the site itself must be strictly perpendicular to the bottom to effectively plane. If the transom is to "play" or bend under the weight of a heavy engine, this will lead to loss of speed and increased fuel consumption.
When installing a heavy motor (over 30 kg), use transom wheels, which will not only facilitate descent into the water, but also relieve critical load from the aft of cylinders when moving over land.
The transom is attached to the cylinders through a system of slings and Velcro straps, or through rigid bushings. It is important to (check) the condition of these mounts, since vibration from the engine can gradually weaken the fixation. A reliable transom is the key to safety, so any signs of plywood stratification or tissue wiping at the contact points should be eliminated immediately.
Performance in water
How he behaves. Girgis 390 With a 9.9 horsepower engine, the boat is confidently glides with two passengers on board, the wide stern is a quick break from the water, and the rounded contours of the cylinders provide a gentle ride on a small wave.
However, it is worth considering that the shape of the cylinders here is not hydrodynamically ideal, as inflatable keel keel boats. At high speed, the vessel can be prone to yaw, especially in lateral winds. hydro-fill on the lower unit motor or the use of longer bumpers for accurate course control.
The maneuverability is good because it's relatively short, and a 180-degree reversal is almost in place when you're reversing, which is very valuable when you're fishing in a snag or on overgrown shores, and you can be more responsive when you spread the load evenly, and you shift the center of gravity closer to the center of the cockpit.
⚠️ Attention: Do not develop maximum speed in the side wave. Flat bottom and high sides create sailing, which can lead to a sharp roll and even tipping over when the steering wheel is shifted sharply.
Assembly, storage and transportation
Assembly process Girgis 390 It takes an average of 15 to 20 minutes with experience, and if you use a pile bottom, the main difficulty is to lay the boards and lock them in locks, the inflatable floor is assembled faster, but takes longer to pump, and you have to use a foot or electric pump with a pressure gauge.
Controlling cylinder pressure is not a formality, it's a necessity. A boat that is under-pumped loses its rigidity, becomes sluggish on the move and wears out faster in the folds. A boat that is over-pumped risks bursting in the sun. The optimal working pressure is usually 0.2-0.25 atmosphere, but the exact figures are always indicated in the product's passport.
☑️ Preparation for the season
The boat should be kept clean and dry, and thoroughly washed with fresh water before packaging, especially if it was operated in salt water or in bodies of abundant vegetation, and the mud and silt left on the fabric act as an abrasive when folded, rubbing the protective layer of PVC.
Temperature storage is also important, and although modern materials are frost-resistant, it is not recommended to keep a rolled-up boat at extremely low temperatures, because the material becomes brittle, and the ideal place is a heated room or a garage protected from rodents that can chew on the fabric.
Repairability and maintenance
Sooner or later, any owner is faced with the need for minor repairs. Girgis 390 It's pretty simple, and small punctures or cuts up to a few centimeters long are easily repaired with a remix, which is usually standard, and the glue process requires degreasing the surface and using a special glue for PVC.
A more serious problem can be stratification of the seams or damage to the transom. The first requires professional gluing in the workshop, because at home it is almost impossible to ensure factory quality and pressure in the seam, and the damaged transmolina can be replaced by ordering a new plywood workpiece and skinning it, or contacting the manufacturer.
How to use PVC in the field?
In emergency cases, when there is no special glue, you can use two-component polyurethane adhesive, but this is a temporary solution. The real repair is possible only with the use of specialized polyurethane-based formulations specifically for PVC boat.
Regular maintenance also involves greasing the valves, and over time, sand or dust can enter the mechanism, leading to etching air, and silicone grease helps maintain the elasticity of the seals and the tightness of the valve group throughout the season.
Timely drying and proper storage extend the life of the Girgis 390 twice as efficiently as any, even the most expensive repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install an 18 hp engine on the Girgis 390?
Technically, you can set it up because the transom can often withstand such loads, but this is not recommended. The boat can become unstable on planing, and the transom can become deformed. The optimal power for comfortable and safe operation is 9.9 hp.
How long does the boat dry before packing?
In sunny and windy weather, 30-40 minutes are enough; in cloudy weather or high humidity, the process can take up to 2-3 hours; packing a wet boat is guaranteed to produce mold and unpleasant odor.
Should the valve be lubricated and what?
Yes, you need to lubricate regularly, especially after winter storage. It's best to use a special silicone lubricant that doesn't break down rubber seals. Regular engine oil can eat away at rubber.
Which type of bottom is better to choose: NDND or floorboard?
NDND (inflatable floor) provides better comfort, stability and protection from the cold, but the boat is heavier and dries longer. Pyol (plywood bottom) is lighter and more compact when folded but tougher on the go and requires more thorough drying of each board.