Arkansas Canoe Club Forums

The end bags are losing air, and I'm almost positive it's leaking from the dump valves. I'm pretty sure it's the valves themselves and not the area around them. Is there a relatively easy solution, and how likely is my diagnosis? The bags are in excellent condition, so I'd much rather repair than replace if possible.

Blow it up,
put it in a glass of water and see where the bubble are
coming from.
If they are coming out anywhere around the valve,
Get new valve ends.
Any of the outfitters have them or can order them.
You can order from NRS
http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp?pfid=3875" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Contact cement will do for glue.

Those valves are good. It's the big dump valves that are the problem. Can anything be done about them?

Maybe Plumbers or sportsmans goop?

Might try using a coat of Vaseline around the lip of the valve.

Also, I recommend dampening the bags before each trip. I flip my canoe over and get the bags good and wet then dump the water. The bags seemed to always hold air better after they were damp.

Great idea. Thanks Jeff. I believe what's happening is when the bags get shoved into the ends of the boat the valves get contorted and just don't seat like they're supposed to. I bought the bags used, but I paid $75 for two end bags and one center bag, so I figure it was worth a shot even if I can't get them to seal right. I'll check for leaks elsewhere, but I've personally observed air escaping from the dump valves. I can manipulate them to prevent the air from escaping, but I don't think my rec school tandem partner will be up for keeping her finger over the dump valve all weekend.