Inflatable sealant

[rmoore8118]

I am new to the forum and new to inflatables since I had a "toy" kayak 40years ago! I have an opportunity to buy a Quicksilver 310 airdeck hypalon really reasonably. It is 10 years old, has had no repairs, is in better than average condition, and has two pinhole leaks in one side tube. This boat will be used for portable boating out of my RV, so it will be stored in it's bag a lot of the time. Here's my question:

Considering the age, should I just keep chasing pinholes with small patches or use an internal liquid sealant?

If I use a sealant, which type? Urethene or latex based? I have experience with urethene based "glues" on neoprene boots and wetsuits and really like the durability, flexibility, and adhesion of the stuff. Question is....will I be able to keep boat rolled up after a full cure? (I understand the full cure issue here) Or will the inner sides of the tubes stick together over time while rolled up?

The latex stuff, I have no experience with, but I have a hard time believing that after repeated foldings of the boat that it will stay stuck to the inner tube walls.

I understand a lot of "professionals" use sealant...but which one?

Thanks!

 

[nobrainsd]

Re: Inflatable sealant

Well, I have not used either sealant. If you just have a couple of small pinhole leaks then patching them would be the best option. The internal coatings do work, if you get them distributed around the interior properly (a bit of a trick with larger boats). Internal sealants are generally a last ditch measure. If the boat should need subsequent repairs it is very difficult to clean the sealant off if you need an interior patch (required for larger punctures or tears). If the boat is deteriorating and the leaks are not limited to one or two pinholes then you might consider a topcoat. It is much easier to apply an even coat on the exterior than try to get a good coat inside the tubes by rotating the vessel. Check out this supplier.
http://www.allinflatables.com/shopping/paint/index.html

 

[TOHATSU GURU]

Re: Inflatable sealant

We have used this stuff, Toob Seal, for awhile with excellent results, but its no substitute for proper patching. Think of internal sealants as a cheat that buys you a little more time for a boat that should probably be deep sixed.

http://www.bixlersmarine.com/Product-Guides/ToobSeal

 

[rmoore8118]

Re: Inflatable sealant

Thanks for the feedback. I don't think this boat is on it's last legs by all the pictures I have been sent. I'll know more when I see it next week. The forum has been very helpfull in educating me in what to look for in my inspection. I'll just patch these two disclosed pinholes and see. (If I bring it home) By the pics, I don't see any transome issues nor seam issues, so at this point, I think it's worth some minor repairs...and the price is very right.

Thanks again.