Avon Valves Fix or Replace?

[NigelBirch]

I've just got an old Avon Redcrest with black A4 valves that leak badly. I can't decide whether to fix the diaghrams/springs or replace them completely with the newer A7 type. I gather that the A4 are a bit fiddly to maintain because of the narrower neck.

Anyone have any thoughts?

 

[Tranona]

Replace them. The new ones are superior. Polymarine do a kit with the valve, patch and instructions.

 

[smonard]

I'm in the same position, can the A4 diaphrams and springs be replaced without removing the valve? Which are the best valves to use?

 

[VicS]

At the end of the day it is your choice.

The A4 valves can be maintained. I don't believe it is that difficult. It is not something you will be doing frequently and it will be cheaper and less work than replacing them with A7 valves.

The A7 I believe are better, at least they have a better cap!

At one time I would have said replace them without doubt but I am lazier now and less inclined to do the unnecessary!

 

[Gin]

The rubber bung in the old valves is a PITA and whilst the process of replacement using the newer A7's is fiddly, time consuming and quite expensive, I've just done two inflatables, a Redstart and a Redcrest so that I can use the same inflator pump socket for both- I am very pleased with the result and as you've been told (above) the seal is much more efficient with the screw-on caps .

Make sure you use two-pack adhesive as it's stronger and take the greatest care to see that your new doubler patches lay flat on the tube fabric or you will get a leak

 

[Spyro]

The rubber diaphragm seats against a metal ring, this tends to rust on the surface causing the seal not to be airtight. I repaired mine by bending the last 1 cm end of a small file so that I could remove the rust under the ring. If that doesn't work then think about replacement. AVAILABLE HERE

 

[ChrisSnushall]

If you keep your Avon inflated, as a stop-gap temporary measure, try a dab of plumber's silicon gel brushed on to the diaphram with a cotton wool bud - this seals against the metal ring but won't do any harm and can be wiped off if necessary.
At the end of the season, if the metal ring is in good condition you can then replace the spring and diaphram; I understand this is very fiddly but possible with the help of some fishing line; the downside is that the old diaphram gets pushed through to remain inside the boat.
If this does not appeal, then the only real answer is replacement with A7, which means being brave and cutting out the old A4 and following the instructions carefully.
Polymarine have a good website and instruction leaflets; IBS in Penryn, Falmouth are also very helpful and knowledgeable.
I'm doing the diaphram and spring method at the end of the season on our Redseal.