Seamax Inflatable Boat – English User Manual
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7. REPAIR & MAINTENANCE
Repair Air Chamber by PVC Fabric
The repair kit included with the boat is a one part glue operation and used for emergency minor repair. For
a permanent repair, a two part adhesive for PVC fabric should be used. This two part adhesive and patching
materials for PVC fabric are available in the repair kit.
Small tears and punctures in the air chambers which are 1cm (0.393 in.) or less, can be repaired in an
emergency. Larger areas, or if the patch will overlap a seam, should be patched by a professional repair
person. If you are not sure of the repair procedure, you can contact SEAMAX customer support by visiting our
website.
For the best results when gluing, the relative humidity should be less than 60%, ambient air temperature
should be between 18C to 25C (65 F to 77F) and not repaired in direct sunlight.
Cut out a patch large enough to overlap the damaged area by 3cm (1.2 in.) on all sides. Center the patch over
the damaged area, and with a pencil trace the outline of the patch. Apply masking tape around the perimeter
of the outlined patch area to ensure a tight and clean glue line.
Clean the patch area on the boat as well as the backside of the patch, its best to use M.E.K. (Methyl Ethel
Ketone) patching solvent and cleaner. Use rubber gloves when handling solvent. After applying the solvent,
you will notice that the area will become tacky. This tackiness ensures good glue adhesion.
Apply three thin layers of adhesive with a short bristle brush, in a circular pattern on both the backside of the
patch and the patch area on the boat. Allow each layer to dry for 5 minutes before applying the next layer.
After applying the third layer, wait 5 minutes and then apply the patch to the prepared area and press down
firmly. Using a smooth object (a back of a tablespoon works well), working from the center of the patch to the
outside, force out any air bubbles that may have been trapped under the patch. After the patching is
complete remove the masking tape, place a 5 pound weight onto the patch and allow 24 hours drying time
before pressurizing the repaired air chamber.
Important: Repairing is only possible with a dry atmosphere and the air humidity may not be higher than
60%.
NOTE: PVC Repair Photo Instruction is available on our website at www.seamaxboat.com.
