JL Audio's Fathom (and Gotham) subwoofer series sport foam surrounds, not rubber, and while earlier types of foam surrounds have been known to deteriorate more readily than rubber and not least cloth surrounds - typically going into degradation mode from somewhere between 5-10 to 15 years, depending on different factors - I'm surprised this material is still used in drivers build today in the specific compound that offers no advance in lifespan. How old are the JL Audio subs in question here to need reconing/"updating"? I'm assuming they are no more than 10 years old. Newer foam variants, including foamed rubber, should be more resilient and durable and last up to 20-25 years, so I'm surprised why these types of foam surrounds haven't been implemented in JL Audio's premium subs years ago to prevent costumers from the hassle of "updating" so relatively close to their purchase year.
JL Fathom repair
I have a JL F112 and the rubber surround has developed a hole in it. I am located in the Portland Oregon area and there doesn't seem to be anyone that can do the repairs....it sounds like you have to ship this massive thing back to JL in Florida for something that should be pretty simple. Does anyone have any suggestions or alternatives for repair that don't involve a return to JL?
Scott