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14
REPAIR
Many manufacturers recommend that you bring your boat to a professional for larger repairs, because it can be
difficult to get a good seal with a patch. However, if you have a small puncture, want to add-on D-rings/Footcones,
or are in a situation where you need to make immediate repairs, follow the directions below.
LOCATING A LEAK
Sometimes, even with the best care and safety precautions, your inflatable boat can develop a leak. Unless you
have a major and obvious accident, it may be difficult to determine the location of the leak. Never assume there
is only one leak. Check the entire boat with soapy water to be sure before setting out on the water. More often
than not, a leak comes from a loose valve or an old patch that was applied incorrectly.
With the boat inflated, start at the valve and spray with soapy water, watching for bubbles to form on the surface
of the boat, as a result of escaping air.
If the leak is coming from the outskirts of the valve, it is either loose, the washer is upside down or the valve is off
center. Simply remove the valve, readjust and re-tighten.
If it leaks from the center, something is holding the spring open (usually silt/sand). Remove the valve, wash with
soapy water, making sure to depress the spring several times to free any debris. Once you re-install the valve,
check for leaks again. Refer to the Valve section for complete instructions to install/remove.
If the leak is in the fabric, patch with an appropriate sized piece of fabric following the Gluing Instructions on the
next page.
REMOVING AN OLD PATCH
Pulling off an old patch is identical to replacing a broken handle or D-ring. You simply take the heat gun and wave
it over a corner at low heat until you are able to lift the corner with channel lock pliers. Then work the heat gun
down the patch until you pull the whole thing off. Be careful not to apply too much heat to one location or it will
blister.
Once it is off you will need to clean the surfaces. If someone left you with a mess, you may need the more
aggressive buffing wheel (item # 125G). But be extremely careful not to remove too much Hypalon, all you need
to do is remove the glue. If you ever need to repair the area again, you’ll want to have some Hypalon to work with.
LOOSE EDGES
If you have a loose edge on a footcone, handle or D-ring patch and wish to tack it down, pull up on the loose edge
until you find good adhesion. If more than ½ of the surface area pulls up easily it will be necessary to completely
reinstall the item.
COMMON TOOLS FOR REPAIR
Below are some common tools for repairing your inflatable. Most of the items you’ll need can be found in your
repair kit (included with new boats and available in our online store).
Hyside Repair Kit
The repair kit includes everything you need for a solid repair on or off the water.
It includes plenty of fabric (color of your boat and black), a 4 oz Stabond 2 part
adhesive, brush, sandpaper and a Leafield Valve Tool.
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