Help an Idiot

[TORNADO]

I have a well -worked and enjoyed Tornado 4.5M RiB. In the last 2 weeks it seems to have developed an air leak directly beihind the rubber straking at the bow........hence very awkward to get at. (No external puncture wound!)
Being of extremely limited DIY ability, would appreciate all your ideas and expertise in your suggestions in ways to repair, the more the merrier, you can never get too many suggestions.......though the simpler the better!
Cheers from the Scottish West Coast

[slimtim]

You can get some stuff from IBS which you squirt in through the valve and it is supposed to seal the inside of the tube. If it work it would be quick, cheap, easy so perfect for your needs!

download their catalogue from the link below.

http://www.inflatable-boat-supplies.co.uk/

Hope thats a help.

Tim

[TORNADO]

Will certainly have a look at IBS's product
Andy

[DJL]

Are you sure that the leak is from behind the rubbing strake? On some boats I have seen you get little air pockets behind the rubbing strake, which in the sun expands and the air gets forced out - producing little bubbles when the boats wet.

If you’re sure the leak is behind the rubbing strake - is there a seam behind it? If so you need to get a professional to look at it as the seam could be coming apart.

Otherwise I would recommend pealing off the rubbing strake and doing a proper repair. It shouldn't be particularly difficult - you just need to get the right glue and solvent.

[tue]

I had a couple of leaks from behind the rubbing strake when I got mine. I peeled bacl the strake(which was a real pain ) and then did the repairs. Stuck the whole thing back together and you never now (except the strake goes a bit wavey where I took it off )