Seam-sealing and Repair
Please refer to the seam-sealing instructional video:
http://www.tarptent.com/saddle2.html (Click “VIDEOS”)
Seams must be sealed with a silicone-based sealer such as GE Silicone II clear
sealer. In a well-ventilated location, mix about three tablespoons into a tuna can
with about 6 tablespoons mineral spirits (paint thinner) or Coleman fuel/white
gas. Stir to dissolve and form a semi-viscous solution. Set up the tent and seal
the outside/topside seams over your living space. Paint the solution on with a
small foam brush for easy, smooth application. It’s also a good idea to paint
thicker swaths of silicone on the compartment floor in the area of your sleeping
pad to help reduce sliding, especially if you use an inflatable pad.
Small fabric tears can be patched with pure silicone and scrap fabric (available
free on request).
Condensation and Sag
Ventilation and fabric warmth are your best defenses against condensation.
Keep doors open as much possible and try to set up where it’s breezy. Look for
warmer and drier microclimates under trees and out of valleys and lake basins.
Nylon stretches (and sags) when the humidity goes up, night is falling, and/or
when it starts to rain. Use the line tighteners and/or boost trekking poles from
inside to tighten the fabric.
Key points to consider
• Stake both elastic loops at bottom of door zippers to reduce zipper stress
and prevent opening in wind.
• The fabric will resist much stress but neither flame nor abrasion. Treat it
accordingly.
Thank you for your purchase and we sincerely hope that you enjoy your
StratoSpire. Feedback is always welcome.
Tarptent
12213 Koswyn Ct.
Nevada City, CA 95959 USA
e-mail: [email protected]
ph: 650-587-1548
Inner Compartment
The inner compartment attaches to the outer fly structure via clips and rings.
The compartment is completely detachable and both the outer fly and inner
compartment can also be used standalone.
1. Unclip interior from fly and spread on ground, black floor side down. Stake
all 4 corners. Use end poles from your fly setup to lift and tension the ends.
Add cording to the end clip and stake to ground or add “V” shape cording
as shown to elliminate the need for an extra stake.
2. Untie the apex guylines from the outer fly and retie to the hooks at the top
of each door zipper. Insert the trekking pole tips into the elastic loops.
3. Stake the two trekking poles as shown to tension the interior canopy.
Snowfall and Wind
A snow shovel is a necessity for any journey during snow season. Use it to
build snow walls and dig yourself out of heavy snow. Seek natural windbreaks
in trees and behind rock outcroppings to limit wind exposure.
Snowfall is best handled by ensuring that it slides off the shelter. Any residual
snow must then be supported by the structural integrity of the shelter. The
Saddle 2 will handle light to moderate snowfall but you will want to reach up
and punch the underside of the interior as often as necessary.
Stake the apex guylines aseparately to maximize ridgeline tension and resist
wind and snow loads. Additional fly pullouts are provided along the perimter
hem.
