What size zipper for tarptent beak?

Sumi,

I used a #5 from Quest Outfitters because, as I remember it, that was all they had in stock at the time.

Quest now stocks #3 and #5 WATERPROOF URETEK ZIPPER – YKK, along with the reversible #5 coil zipper sliders (#5043) for the #5 uretek zipper and reversible #3 coil zipper sliders (#5055)for the #3 uretek zipper.

The #5 is working fine for me on my tarp beak. I am curious as to whether or not the #3 would be sufficient for the same purpose. ;-?

Party On,

Newton

+1 to what Newton said

I always use #5 but I'm thinking #3 would be just as good but slightly lighter

owfinc.com and thruhiker.com also have some #3 but not as large a selection as #5

I believe Tarptent and most UL tent makers use a #3

>> I believe Tarptent and most UL tent makers use a #3

Great — I think I'm going to go with the #3 and see how it works out.

Thanks!

We like the #5 water resistant type on the shelters- the #3 non WR on theBivys and InnerNets

What ever size you use – try to properly clean and lube the zipper once a year – or maybe more often if you use it in very dusty/sandy places.

Usually the first thing that wears out is the slider – the softer aluminum in the slider can abrade if grit gets on the teeth. Up side is the slider is easy to replace vs the teeth. A storm flap over the zipper can help keep some dirt off of it. I might venture a guess that 50-75 beach camping nights could wear out a zipper slider if it is not cleaned. A #5 slider might last 25-50% longer than a #3 under the same conditions.

Very little difference in weight overall between the two on a short piece for a door.

Also – do not zip it up or down if the zipper is under much tension cross ways.

I've used #3 coil/coil zips on all my tents, summer and winter, for many years. That size works well for me, but I take care of my gear. As Ron wrote, definitely!

But I am not sure all the sliders are aluminium: I think some of mine are another harder metal.

Cheers

> What ever size you use – try to properly clean and lube the zipper once a year

Aside from blowing it perhaps with compressed air, I've never heard of lubing a tent zipper. WD-40? 123 household oil?

I used a #3 non-WP coil zipper on my tarp's mesh door.

Google "zipper lube"

You'll find many.
I use McNett.