You can make a minor repair of a boat in field conditions using a repair kit. But it is recommended to have it done in a workshop. You should always bring your boat to an authorized workshop to have major damages repaired by qualified experts. Please follow the directions below if you repair a boat yourself.
Allow an adhesive to cure for 12 hours in order to achieve a good result. It is not recommended to inflate a boat during this period of time. In case of emergency you may inflate a boat in one hour. Please note that reduction of curing time will affect quality and durability of adhesion.
You should repair cuts and tears at inner and outer sides of an inflatable boat. If the length of damage is more than 10 cm, you are strongly advised to bring your boat to an authorized workshop or to the manufacturer for proper maintenance. Repair of cuts and tears in field conditions is allowed only in case of emergency. Remember that the result will not be good.
Reminder: allow an adhesive to cure for 12 hours in order to achieve a good result. It is not recommended to inflate a boat during this period of time. In case of emergency you may inflate a boat in one hour. Please note that reduction of curing time will affect quality and durability of adhesion.
Inflation valves consist of two pieces, one screwed into another inside of the tube. In order to replace an outer valve you should unscrew it by the special wrench (not included) and replace it with the new one. The new valve should be screwed carefully to make sure there is no air leak. There is no need to replace a valve frequently: it is enough to clean it well and put it back into its place. (Sand particles and litter inside of a valve can deteriorate its work).
Please note the inner valve should be replaced or repaired in a qualified workshop. In order to replace it make an incision nearby to have access inside for proper repair. Glue the incision securely after replacement of the inner valve. (See the chapter “Repair of cut and tear”).
Attention!
Use ethyl acetate to dilute an adhesive or to remove it from the PVC surface. Never treat the PVC surface with sandpaper or other abrasive materials.
Use an appropriate adhesive for gluing from repair kit. If, for some reason, you do not have it, use only PVC friendly adhesives (Bonikol, Dismakol and other special adhesives). Adhesion can be made at any surrounding temperature.
Read user instructions carefully before applying an adhesive which does not belong to repair kit. You may also need to utilize Desmodur hardener (RC, RFE or RN). Prepare the mixture of adhesive and hardener before application, paying attention to proportion.
Remember: improper use or storage of a boat can cause the most critical damage.