Emergency Tube Repairs - suggestions?

[willk]

So sibbers (and wee ribbers I guess) I had a problem. In fact, I've had it twice. I've arrived at the slip and discovered a small hole in my SIB tubes. I mean a tiny 1mm hole that would be a damn shame to enlarge for a clamshell, but it's enough to need an instant fix.

First time I didn't have my repair kit to hand (don't ask! ) but second time I did. The kit is the standard issue job with patches and a tube of Bostik. This totally failed to stick and I need to sort a better kit.

I think the main issue was that the SIB was cleaned with "wash and wax" after each use. And it's piggin' I guess I should carry some fine sandpaper and/or some solvent? Anyone got a good idea for a wee MEK bottle? Does it dissolve most plastics?

I'm a good patcher once I have the needful - I've done several very neat and durable patches under controlled conditions, but I'm thinking more of the running repair type situation.

[Poly]

HDPE and PP should be OK for MEK, or perhaps a small Sigg bottle?

[treerat]

Black witch or Seal cement (virtually the same stuff). Would need to be fully cleaned off though before patching later.

[willk]

Originally Posted by Poly

HDPE and PP should be OK for MEK, or perhaps a small Sigg bottle?

Hmmm. I have a selection of small NALGENE bottles - I bet they're HDPE and they have good caps. I'll check 'em later.

Do we have a tubed adhesive of choice? I guess Bostik is OK and readily available. I'll need a new tube now anyway. It's just that there are soooo many brands of contact adhesive in the shops.....

[willk]

Originally Posted by treerat

Black witch or Seal cement (virtually the same stuff). Would need to be fully cleaned off though before patching later.

Cheers! Yes - Black Witch is dirty stuff - I'd suspect very tricky to clean off afterwards (light grey SIB). I'll keep it in mind though

[Poly]

Originally Posted by willk

Hmmm. I have a selection of small NALGENE bottles - I bet they're HDPE and they have good caps. I'll check 'em later.

if its the right Nalgene it would be ideal (but they do a range of materials), and i've just dusted off my compatibility chart and HDPE not recommended for long term storage of MEK but PP is.

Of course, you could just stop messing about with blow up boats and buy something tougher ;-)

[Max...]

Two part Poundshop epoxy? Stormseal? I carry both in the Peli.

[ShinyShoe]

Not used it on boats but my dry suit came with some self adhesive patches. For an on the day pin prick hole I'd have thought they might work...

Look like Skabs Bike Tyre repair stuff. Bike Tyre under higher pressure?