|
|
 |
|
Inflatable boat maintenance tips:
The buoyancy tube of your inflatable boat is made of fabric using plastomer PVC. Inflatable boat maintenance is easy but essential.
Clean it every month: (if used extensively) but recommended seasonally before storing for the winter.
NEVER USE STRONG DETERGENTS (ACID, TRICHLORETHYLENE, MINERAL SPIRIT) OR SILICONE-BASED PRODUCTS TO CLEAN YOUR INFLATABLE BOAT.
Inflate the buoyancy tube.
Open the self bailer and wash the boat with a hose to remove sand and other particles.
Remove the floor or floorboards where applicable.
Clean all grime, stains, etc.
Check all inflatable sections for leaks, with foamy soap and water.
Rinse with fresh water and dry thoroughly.
NEVER USE HIGH PRESSURE CLEANING EQUIPMENT. THIS MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE BOAT When deflating your inflatable boat
Check that the valves and gaskets are clean and not damaged.
Check to ensure the self bailer is not clogged.
A 20% air pressure loss in a 24 hours period is normal.
Only address more serious air leakages: ie: .25 PSI in 5 hours
If you have a problem with an air leakage: first, check all valves are intact and in closed position (nothing clogging the valve).
Storage of your inflatable boat:
When storing your inflatable boat, keep it in a clean and dry place that is not affected from major variations in temperature and other damaging environmental
factors. You may store the boat deflated and rolled up or lightly inflated. If you own an inflatable with a removable tubeset, take it off for easier, more thorough
cleaning. You may store the tubeset on or off the boat.
FOR LONG TERM STORAGE IN THE SUN (ESPECIALLY IN TROPICAL REGIONS), PROTECT YOUR BOAT WITH A COVER.RODENTS CHEW ON FABRIC INCLUDING INFLATABLE BOAT MATERIAL. STORE
AWAY FROM RODENTS (RATS AND MICE).
Inflatable boat repairs tips and repairing information:
You can easily repair your inflatable boat and its minor punctures (1cm or less). Read basic repair instructions below, but when performing simple repairs follow the
instructions in your owner's manual. Always use safety equipment. Seek a professional repair station for complete details, instructions and materials.
REPAIR KIT
Cleaning:
- PVC fabric: Grease remover of the MEK or acetone type. Use safety equipment.
Repairing:
- Fabric patch (use correct fabric for your boat)
- Tube of special glue, ready for use: check with your dealer that you use the suitable glue
- Small paint brush
CONDITIONS NECESSARY FOR A SUCCESSFUL REPAIR
- Relative humidity less that 60%
- Temperature between 18 and 25°C (64.4 and 77°F)
- Avoid carrying out repairs in direct sunlight or rain
- Check that the buoyancy tube is fully deflated and lies flat
PREPARATION
- Cut out a round patch at least 5 cm larger than the hole or cut to be repaired
- Draw around the shape of the patch exactly where it will be applied on the boat
- Clean the damaged part of the boat and the corresponding side of the patch
- Strongan fabric: with a grease remover of the alcohol type
- Hypalon fabric: with the pumice stone only
- Allow to dry for 5 minutes
GLUING
- Apply 3 thin layers of glue on both the patch and the roughened area on the boat and let dry for 5 to 10 minutes between each layer until tacky
PUTTING ON THE PATCH
- When the 3rd layer is dry, apply the patch without pressing and adjust the position if required
- Press out the air bubbles which may have formed under the patch
- Smooth the patch with a round object (ie: a spoon) starting from the center of the patch and working out
- Clean the excess glue with a solvent
USE OF BOAT AFTER REPAIR
- Do not expose the repair to sun or rain until cured
- Let dry and cure for 24 hours before inflating
CAUTION !
When using the glue :
- Carefully replace the cap on the tube of glue. If properly sealed, it keeps well.
- Do not leave the tube in the sun or next to heat sources or direct flames.
- Check that the room is properly ventilated, avoid inhaling or ingesting the glue, and avoid its contact with your skin.
| |
|
|
|
