Sealing an inflation valve

Wightdiver · 19 July 2010, 10:38

Hi Forum

My Rib has recently developed a leak around one of the inflation valves. This is where the valve beds onto the tube rather than the valve its self. I have tightened it as far as I can but it still leaks, epically when you put pressure on or around the valve.

My solution is to try and bed it onto a bead of silicone sealer (bathroom sealer). Anyone have any experience of this or suggestions on a better way of sealing the valve?

spartacus · 19 July 2010, 11:40

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wightdiver

Hi Forum

My Rib has recently developed a leak around one of the inflation valves. This is where the valve beds onto the tube rather than the valve its self. I have tightened it as far as I can but it still leaks, epically when you put pressure on or around the valve.

My solution is to try and bed it onto a bead of silicone sealer (bathroom sealer). Anyone have any experience of this or suggestions on a better way of sealing the valve?

Don't use silicone sealer. A proper repair needs to be made using 2-part glue. You'll need to determine if the tube material is Hypalon, PVC or PU for correct adhesive.

Ribshop · 19 July 2010, 11:54

What boat / valve is it?

Wightdiver · 19 July 2010, 12:46

What boat / valve is it?

Looking at your web site it is either a Bravo 2001 or a Halkey Roberts

Wightdiver · 19 July 2010, 12:48

Don't use silicone sealer. A proper repair needs to be made using 2-part glue. You'll need to determine if the tube material is Hypalon, PVC or PU for correct adhesive.

The boat is PVC but I am unsure as to how this would work. If I use a 2 part glue then surley as soon as the valve meets the tube it will stick and stop me tightening the valve? Or am I missing something?

Ribshop · 19 July 2010, 13:54

Valves should not fitted using any glue. Valves need to be serviceable and if you glue or seal them in this will no longer be possible.
If it is leaking around the outside of the valve it probably just needs tightening up.

spartacus · 19 July 2010, 19:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ribshop

Valves should not fitted using any glue. Valves need to be serviceable and if you glue or seal them in this will no longer be possible.
If it is leaking around the outside of the valve it probably just needs tightening up.

Wasn't sure if the tube had a doubler on it? Certainly the case with Zodiacs, and some hypalon boats. http://www.hotribs.com/02articles/06...cement-pvc.asp