Seeking some advice on Avon Searider seam leak

[tworotorturbo]

Hi everyone,

I have several small leaks coming from a few seams. Here is a pic of the worst of the tiny tiny leaks. It is such as small leak that it took a few minutes for these bubbles to appear.



The boat holds air for days and I am not really concerned about the inconvenience of any air loss since I usually inflate a bit before use and then deflate a bit after use. I am more concerned if these tiny tiny leaks mean that the seams are compromised and may suddenly burst, or is this just a normal sign of wear and tear on a 1998 Avon? Thanks

[Tim M]

I wouldn't be overly concerned, however as a precaution I think I would get the seam tapes (which is what that photo is of) replaced. I had this done on a Humber not so long ago and it was pretty reasonable in terms of price. Plus it will add value to the craft as it won't leak any more. Where abouts in the country are you?

[tworotorturbo]

Thanks for the advice Tim. I am in California. There is a local shop that does good inflatable repairs and I will look into getting the tape replaced. I just removed a valve to fix it's leak and found that parts of the inside of the bow tube is coated with a latex sealant type of product. Looks like the previous owner attempted to get to these tiny leaks but missed a few spots. I'm tempted to try more of this product but figure it might be a bit hard to get the liquid to completely coat the inside, since it will be hard to shake and roll this boat around.

[Pikey Dave]

Seeing as it's a Searider.............have you tried Gaffer tape

[jyasaki]

Originally Posted by tworotorturbo

I am in California.

What part?


jky

[tworotorturbo]

Originally Posted by jyasaki

What part?


jky

In your neck of the woods, Oakland/SF Bay.

I just need this thing to last me another year or two and I will be happy.