Fixing polyurethane leaking air bladder

[DB]

Hi,

I'm looking for help with one of the air bladders of an infllatable kayak that I use to fish from. I have a sinking feeling it can't be fixed but I thought I tap the vast range of experience on the board. It's polyurethane, I think, and there is a 1/2 inch split that has appeared right on the seam where the edges of the bladder were heat sealed. Is there a good way to fix this? I'm assuming a patch is out of the question due to the spot where it's split but I'm a little leery of trying to remold it altho' this might do the trick? Any advice or experience with successfully (or unsuccessfully) reparing this type of leak would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Dave

[fishfinder]

Dave,

I had a similar problem in one of the bladders on my pontoon boat. I had a leak at the seam. Really frustrating. I tried several failed methods until I found some PVC cement at Lowes. First I deflated the bladder completely. Then I applied a bead of the cement along the seam and then folded the joint over on itself and clamped it down for 24 hrs. I cemented the area at least 8" each side of the leak. The air under presure wanted to run down the seam thus the reason for the extended repair area.

I have to admit that my tear wasn't as large as yours. So far it is holding. In fact I plan to go fishing with it tomorrow. PM if you need more info. The cement is down in the barn and I don't remember the name, but it was the only PVC cement they had. If you need the name I could go down and get it for you. If it works it's a cheap fix.


Mike :)

[fishfinder]

Dave,

The cement is Loctite vinyl and plastic cement.

Mike L :thumb:

[DB]

Thanks Miker,

I'll give it a go this week.

Dave