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The Fitch Rubber 'How To' Guide On

Inflatable Boat

Large Hole Repairs

This is for the general repair of PVC Inflatable boats.  If you are unsure as to whether your craft has PVC or Hypalon pontoons, please consult the retailer whom you purchased the boat from.  If all else fails give us a call.

This is a basic guide only.

The images below show the basic steps of repairing a large hole (greater than one inch).  In this instance there is no 'in depth' written guide, just photos and basic overview only.  Please use the same cleaning and glueing process as per the guide to floor repairs.

What you will need: a suitable PVC heat activated adhesive, Glue Brush, Clean cloth, M.E.K or suitable cleaner (to chemically clean the surface to be glued), Hair dryer or Hot air gun, Large spoon & Ice cream sticks.

Step 1 Photo shows hole in excess of 130mm and has torn in two directions.	Step 2 This picture shows the inner patch that will be applied.  The use of a heat activated glue makes installation of the inner patch quite simple as the patch can be easily manoeuvred into place inside the tube without the fabric adhering.  A mark on the patch aids in installation.
Step 3 Above picture shows the inner patch in place.  Adhesive has cured and low pressure has been applied to pontoon so that a leak test can be performed.	Step 4 Outer patch has now been applied.  In this instance a circular patch was deemed the preferred option as it provides the greatest amount stress relief to the surrounding fabric.