Alternatives to Tarp Zippers on M1101

[FFJR]

Hello all, looking for past experience as to viable alternatives / repairs that I can do to my M1101 trailers tarp as the rear zipper as ripped out again. 1997, had it stitched in once already due to rot on the threads from age, but it just ripped out again. Wants to jam which isn't helping either. I tried using a spray graphite to lube the zipper, and that has helped some, but they just get full of dust and crud it seems.

Wondering if anyone has found and converted one over to self installed snaps? might that work as well to put a snap on the side rails and use in-between the existing grommet holes and plastic clips to tighten up the seal a bit more from driving wind and snow?

Other ideas? - I'm calling a tarp/tent/awning place to get a quote for a new zipper, but figured someone has run across this issue long before I had.

Thanks.

 

[Jakob1944]

Chap Stick

 

[Tinstar]

Chap stick like mentioned.
Bar soap works too

There is also a product specially to lube zippers.
Any good sewing shop will have it.
Hobby Lobby should have it also.

Woukd rather have zippers than snaps on a tarp anyday.

 

[98G]

Candlewax For lube. Fishing line to sew it...