Leaky Zodiac

[EASLOOP]

I have a 3.5m Zodiac (the old beige and blue one). With it fully inflated and left alone the port tube softens after about 12 hours while the stbd one remains taut. Can't imagine submerging the whole thing to look for leaks - so has anyone got any ideas how I can find the leaks? Already eliminated the valves.
Input greatly appreciated.

John

 

[StephenSails]

Get a bucket of soapy water and a sponge and go over the whole tube and you should find the air leak quite easily if it is going down in 12 hours. If you still struggle give me a shout.....
Regards

Stephen
www.inflatable-repairs.co.uk

 

[sparkie]

Hi John,

Have an even older Zodiac with the same problem. Used soapy water etc etc but can't find the leak. Have bought some sealing fluid to coat the inside of the thing but haven't used it yet as it's been too cold. Can let you have details if you are interested.

Safe sailing

Sparkie

 

[ashanta]

Three things you can do. Place glass of water over the valves to see they are leaking. Fill the inside of the dinghy with water incase it's leaking on the inside seams, or finally, again using a glass of water placed firmly against the fabric, work your way all over the outer areas of the dinghy.
I had a similar problem but I eventually found it after carrying this exercise.

Good luck.

Peter.

 

[StephenSails]

Be careful not screw your valves if using that stuff. I am not sure how effective the latex solution you are going to use is as it will struggle to me a decent bond on PVC.

 

[dick_james]

I have a similar problem - what is this stuff called and where can you get it from?

 

[EASLOOP]

Thanks for all your inputs - Sparkie, what is this stuff and where can I get it?

Best wishes,
John

 

[sparkie]

Hi Dick, see reply to John further up page.

Sparkie