Leaky Avon...

S

SEA3PO

New member
My Avon has a small leak somewhere...can't seem to find it.. I see West Marine has a sealant that you put inside the tubes and slosh around that they claim will seal the boat...

Anyone tried sealing their inflatable ? My Avon is is 16 years old...and well beyond it's expected life expectancy...but I would like to get a few more years...without going flat every night....

Joel
SEA3PO
 
I'm assuming you've already tried coating with soapy water solution, including in and on the valves? If the boat is going flat in one night, that is usually a big enough leak to detect with bubbles. If a pinhole or seam leak cannot be found, I'd look at the valves, replacing the O-rings/seals and making sure the valve is threaded all the way in can make a lot of difference. Personally I'd be reluctant to try those miracle coating products, either internal or external variety. If it's been properly maintained, 16 years is nothing for a hypalon Avon, and worth the time to identify and fix the leak.

-Mike
 
My dinghy has a problem sealing around one of the Boston valves for the tubes. One side can get low overnight. A bit of teflon tape on the valve threads solves the problem.
 
I would second the suggestion that you either put the boat in a pool, or at the very least spray with soapy water to see the extent of leaking. Avons, even abused, can last many years.

If the leak is not a valve (easily replaced--and then new patch around the area patched with special adhesive), Then get some "Toobseal". If the boat is less than 12 feet a quart will do. Put equally (by volume of air in the chambers) into all chambers and then rotate fully three times. After 3 hours (I would wait 24 hours) the boat can be deflated and should be good to go.

On the other hand if you really want a KaBoat or Mokai: go for it!
 
if you cant find the leak with water and soap, soaper the better, then I would think its a valve or under one of the glue ons. All the attachments points, oar locks trim etc is glued on. If you boat sits under deflated or flat for a long time , winter for example, you can get a crack or leak right where the glued on stuff is. This is what happened to our boat. small leak just under the oar lock pad. could not seal it. Tried several patches. Ended up taking the pad off with a hot air gun and placing a patch on the hole then reapplying another pad over that . But let me know how the sealant works out for you
 
"fix-a-flat" spray sealant is no replacement for a proper patch.
Don't fret.
You'll find the leak.
Go back over the whole boat with a heavier dishsoap solution, twice or more on seams and valves... you'll find it.
You have a very limited area to search. Don't lose faith.

I spent many childhood afternoons patching the old man's zodiak while he drank beer.
Never failed to find the leak before the first 6-pack was gone.
:D :wink: :lol:
 
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