7. REPAIRS
The STEARNS
®
Back Country comes equipped with a repair kit that
includes adhesive and several patches. This can be found in the mesh
pocket and should remain with the canoe. Making repairs to the inner
tube of the canoe may require unzipping the cover and temporarily
removing the tube. Always make sure the canoe is fully deflated before
unzipping the cover. If there is difficulty opening the zipper, refer to the
section
“Care and Maintenance.”
When the repair has been
completed, be sure the tube is aligned properly in the canoe cover and
the zipper is completely closed and appropriately locked.
Figure 9
7.1 Repairing Small Punctures and Cuts
1. Cut a patch which is round or with round corners, at least 1/2 in.
(12.7 mm) larger than the hole or cut.
2. Use water and/or mild soap to clean the area where the patch will
be placed.
3. Make sure all surfaces are dry.
4. Spread a thin layer of glue on both the patch and on the damaged
area and let it sit for three to five minutes or until tacky.
5. Press the patch onto the canoe , making sure that no air bubbles
form.
6. Apply pressure to the patch by placing weight on it. Do not peel
back to see if adhesive is holding.
7. Do not inflate the canoe for at least twelve hours.
7.2 Repairing Pinholes
1. Inflate the canoe. Locate the pinhole by sponging soapy water over
the tube until you see air bubbles.
2. Deflate the canoe. Clean the area around the pinhole and apply a
drop of adhesive to the hole once the area is completely dry.
A patch may not be necessary.
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