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INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on choosing an NRS inflatable drift boat for your on-the-water adventures.
This revolutionary fishing boat combines the time-tested design of a drift boat with the rugged
utility of a raft. It comes set up for the rower and two fishermen.
The Drifter is self-bailing as long as the payload is kept below approximately 900 to 1,000
pounds. Although oar length and type are a matter of personal preference, you’ll want at least
9' - 9½' oars. We’ve included a pair of Cobra Oarlocks, a fisherman’s favorite.
Your Drifter will provide you with many years of great experiences and fun. In this manual,
we’ll give you information and tips to help you protect your investment.
INFLATION
The drop-stitch technology used in this unique design utilizes tens of thousands of strong
threads that join the inner and outer materials. This allows for a recommended 8-9 psi air
pressure, which creates a rigid hull that gives the performance of a composite or aluminum
boat. For ease and convenience, we recommend you use some type of high-volume pump,
either hand or electric, to add the initial air volume. We’ve included a high-pressure hand
pump to use for final top-off inflation and to take along with you on the water.
To properly inflate the Drifter, the top-quality Leafield C7 valve needs to be in the closed
position. Push the valve stem in and turn it clockwise so that the stem pops up, sealing the
valve. Inflate the floor first, to full pressure. Frame assembly is easier when you inflate the side
walls until they are fully formed, but still soft. After the frame is installed, bring the side walls
up to 8-9 psi air pressure.
As the outside air temperature and altitude change, the air pressure inside your boat will also
change. You may need to make adjustments to the pressure in the chambers throughout the
day. Transporting the Drifter inflated on a hot day or when gaining altitude can lead to
overinflation. Cold air and water temperatures will reduce the air pressure inside the hull.
Always bring a hand pump along to top-off the chambers when they need it. Later in the day,
as the air temperature outside warms up, the pressure inside will increase. Check the air
pressure periodically and adjust accordingly.
The drop-stitch construction allows the Drifter to be inflated to substantially higher pressures
than we recommend. However, overinflation puts strain on the seams and can shorten the life
of your boat. Overinflation can also increase the danger of explosive decompression should it
strike an object with force. The NRS warranty (see page 6) does not cover damage caused by
explosive decompression.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction .............................................................................................................................2
Inflation ....................................................................................................................................2-3
Frame .......................................................................................................................................3
Valves .......................................................................................................................................3
Maintenance and Cleaning .................................................................................................4
Hull Repair ...............................................................................................................................4
Transport ..................................................................................................................................5
Storage .....................................................................................................................................5
Safety Warning .......................................................................................................................6
Limited Warranty ....................................................................................................................6