How to Install New Tubes on an Inflatable Boat

Inflatable boats come in a wide variety of rafts, kayaks, canoes and fishing boats. Although they are designed from durable, easy-to-repair materials, inner-air chambers can become worn or leak along seams, especially when used in sandy areas. Most manufacturers provide zipper access to the air chambers, allowing the boat owner to order and replace the tube in a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Soapy water
  • Cloth
  • Shop vac
  • Valve wrench (if required)
  • Replacement air chamber to fit your boat
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Instructions

  1. Replacing an Air Tube

    • 1

      Deflate the boat completely to prevent stress on zippers and material as you are replacing the air chamber.

    • 2

      Unzip the outer skin over the air chamber to be replaced. If zipper does not slide easily, clean with a shop vac and soapy water to remove any debris.

    • 3

      Remove the old tube by releasing the Velcro fastenings at both ends of chamber and feeding the elongated ends out of the restraining loops. Press the valve through the boat's outer skin to unseat it (some models may require a valve wrench to remove the top half of the valve).

    • 4

      Unfold the new air bladder and inflate it halfway to smooth creases and determine the correct angle of installation.

    • 5

      Unscrew the valve to release air pressure while tucking the new air chamber into the boat's outer skin. Be sure the valve is correctly aligned with the valve opening.

    • 6

      Pull the valve upward through the boat's outer skin until it seats in place. Feed the ends of the air bladder through the loops and secure the Velcro in place.

    • 7

      Zip the air chamber envelope closed and inflate to check for correct alignment. Dimples and wrinkles signal the need to deflate and reposition the tube.