Fenders are soft - how to pump up?

[NPMR]

I have several fenders on the boat but few seem to have the same valve.

I got one pumped up with a bicycle pump and a football valve accessory but the others don't seem to take any air. I've tried to pump using a petrol forecourt tyre pump but seem to be getting nowhere.

How do others fill the things up with air?

 

[emandvee44]

How to pump up fenders

With a fender pump. About 12£ from any chandler - they come with a variety of adaptors which will fit most makes of fender.

Michael.

 

[VicMallows]

If you can't get air into them with an airline they probably have metal valves which have seized. You can try penetrating oil on the valve for a day or so.

However fenders which have gone soft have obviously leaked somehow and most often go soft again quite quickly after pumping up.

 

[Spyro]

I have a small plastic cone shaped adaptor that fits into a normal car foot pump the type you might use for something like an airbed. There is enough pressure just holding it firmly against the valve to pass air into the fender.

 

[SolentPhill]

If all else fails go to garage a quick blast from tyre filler but quick blast testing as you go, put foot on it or squeeze it.Dont need to put anything inside the valve, a lot of air will go sideways but enough will go in. Or if you know someone with a compressor even better.

 

[MoodySabre]

Plastimo ones need a special adapter that costs more than an inflated fender