How to fold an aerotec 380 to fit the bag??

[Crooty78]

I've just deflated my boat for the first time, and wondered if anyone can tell me to correct way to fold it up so it fits in the bag. I just rolled it up from the transom but it's way too big still! Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

[stray]

If it's anything like my Zodiac;

Suck as much air out as you can

Fold the transom over

Fold the ends over the transom

Fold boat in 3rds

Probably help to take the Air deck out and fold separately.

I've got a 380 in the garage, but I haven't tried to fold it up yet.

[John Kennett]

It helps if you can pump the air out of the tubes, otherwise make sure you get as much out as possible. Hold the top of each tube by the grab handles and lay them in towards the middle of the boat, this way the boat is folded to about the same width as the transom. Fold the cones across the back of the transom and roll towards the bow.

Do you have the original bag? It should be more of a wrapper than an actual bag, so gives you a bit of leeway in your final size. It can take a few goes before you get a feel for the proportions, but it should fit easily.

[John Kennett]

No need to take the airdeck out, but do remove the seat!

[Crooty78]

Originally Posted by stray

If it's anything like my Zodiac;

Suck as much air out as you can

Fold the transom over

Fold the ends over the transom

Fold boat in 3rds

Probably help to take the Air deck out and fold separately.

I've got a 380 in the garage, but I haven't tried to fold it up yet.

Thanks Stray, I've only tried with the airdeck in so far, and I did try folding sides in but was awkward because of the transom, I'll persevere with it. Thanks

[Crooty78]

Originally Posted by John Kennett

It helps if you can pump the air out of the tubes, otherwise make sure you get as much out as possible. Hold the top of each tube by the grab handles and lay them in towards the middle of the boat, this way the boat is folded to about the same width as the transom. Fold the cones across the back of the transom and roll towards the bow.

Do you have the original bag? It should be more of a wrapper than an actual bag, so gives you a bit of leeway in your final size. It can take a few goes before you get a feel for the proportions, but it should fit easily.

Hi John, yes it's the wrapper type bag thing, I think I just need to practice more! I did use my bravo pump to suck the air out, so it's just me that's the problem. Oh and I did remember to take the seat out!

[stray]

Oops, as John says, fold the sides in before the transom.

Or just stick it in the garage.

[Crooty78]

I would but needs a bit of a sort out lol

[paddlers]

If you can leave it inflated it does stop the mice nibbling holes in it ! Little buggers made a nest in mine a couple of years ago and gnawed through the rope & floor...!
I haven't folded it since.

[Crooty78]

Originally Posted by paddlers

If you can leave it inflated it does stop the mice nibbling holes in it ! Little buggers made a nest in mine a couple of years ago and gnawed through the rope & floor...!
I haven't folded it since.

I don't think they can get in my garage, but not 100% sure. I've not seen any sign of them in there.