07-21-2004, 02:22 PM
Hey there EmuScud, Using the same idea from TubeDude, I would also recommend a strip of Nagahyde in the area where your zipper meets the bladder. That will help prevent the zipper from embedding into the bladder itself and therefore extend the life and usefullness of your craft.
It is also recommended that you don't store your craft fully inflated. There needs to be enough room for expansion and contraction. I have seen my own craft, after carefully leaving it half full, become fully inflated on a hot afternoon in the garage.
Your normal rubber innnertube type bladders should give you many happy years of service with very low maintenance. If and when you see any signs of cracks, unusuall bubbles or blisters, or unusual flatulence while using your tube, then it would be time to change the bladder.
The tubes themselves will handle a number of vulcanized patches without the need to change them often. You will hardly notice the effects of the patch unless you are one of those backpacking types and are fully concerned with weight. 1 little patch will not add lots of weight. 40 or so patches will feel slightly heavier.
[signature]
It is also recommended that you don't store your craft fully inflated. There needs to be enough room for expansion and contraction. I have seen my own craft, after carefully leaving it half full, become fully inflated on a hot afternoon in the garage.
Your normal rubber innnertube type bladders should give you many happy years of service with very low maintenance. If and when you see any signs of cracks, unusuall bubbles or blisters, or unusual flatulence while using your tube, then it would be time to change the bladder.
The tubes themselves will handle a number of vulcanized patches without the need to change them often. You will hardly notice the effects of the patch unless you are one of those backpacking types and are fully concerned with weight. 1 little patch will not add lots of weight. 40 or so patches will feel slightly heavier.
[signature]