Transporting
Inflatables are most often damaged during transport, not on the water. To avoid wear and tear
and extend the life of your boat we recommend transporting your boat deflated and in a bag or
cover with a protective tarp. During transportation(and storage), do not load any heavy or sharp
equipment on top of the boat. Also, secure valve caps before transport.
How to fix a leak on the river (temporary repairs)?
1.
Included with each new Zoik Inflatable is a repair kit containing a tube of one part glue, a
small piece of fabric the same color as your boat and a valve wrench.
2.
This glue is only for temporary patches applied on the river.
3.
Use the following steps for on-river repairs:
a.
Cut a patch from the fabric about one inch larger than the hole.
b.
Clean the patch, and the area to be patched, with MEK (methyl ethyl ketone),
which can be purchased at any paint store or Home Depot.
c.
Apply a thin layer of glue from your repair kit on the area to be patched on the
boat and on one side of the patch. (Make sure not to put glue beyond the area to
be covered with the patch.)
d.
Let the glue dry about 15 minutes or until no longer tacky. Then apply a second
coat of glue to both the patch and the area on the boat to be repaired. This time,
just wait until the glue is almost dry, but still a little tacky. Place patch on
damaged area. Starting from the inside, press out all air bubbles and roll patch
firmly.
e.
Let dry for 20 minutes before continuing on your float trip.
f.
Remember, this is only a temporary “on-river” repair. After returning home, your
boat needs to be re-patched for long-term use.
g.
It is always a good idea to carry some high quality duct tape with you on the
river, as it can be used to stop small leaks.
How to make a permanent repair?
Repair Instructions Using Two-Part PVC Glue
Items Needed:
•
Pencil
•
Scissors
•
Patch material
•
MEK(methyl ethyl ketone)
•
Piece of cloth to apply MEK
•
Two-part glue (glue and accelerator)
•
Glass or metal bowl or cup to mix the glue and stirring instrument
•
1 inch paint brush -- cut the bristles so they are only about half as long
•
Small roller or screw driver with rounded handle
•
Hair dryer
These directions work well for small cuts up to one inch. A larger cut needs an inner patch and is
best done by a professional.
1.
Cut a patch of material generously larger than the cut(approximately 2 inches) and round
the corners.
