07-21-2004, 03:30 PM
[url "javascript: addTag('cool')"][cool][/url][blue]Good input from T2. It is always a good move to insert a protective layer between your bladder and something potentially punctureful (like a zipper). How do you like my new word? As T2 suggests, something inexpensive, like naugahyde, will work. Some folks even cut a strip from a retired inner tube and position it strategically to absorb any rubbing against zippers.[/blue]
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[#0000ff]On the matter of noticing cracks in the other areas of the bladder, that ain't good news. That is known as dry rot. It can happen to any rubber products over time. Heat, ozone and being stored wet or fully inflated can increase the onset and progression of rubber breakdown.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I'm a thrillseeker, but I do not think I would launch that craft again, unless you stay close enough to shore to make it in safely if it decided to "baptize" you. Sometimes they will develop only a pinhole leak at a weak point. In other cases, the whole bladder can split wide open in an instant. Not good.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I doubt you can find original equipment replacement bladders of that "patchwork" rubber design. You will probably have to try to locate a similar shape and size for another craft, and make sure that the valve location is compatible. [/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Good Luck[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]On the matter of noticing cracks in the other areas of the bladder, that ain't good news. That is known as dry rot. It can happen to any rubber products over time. Heat, ozone and being stored wet or fully inflated can increase the onset and progression of rubber breakdown.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I'm a thrillseeker, but I do not think I would launch that craft again, unless you stay close enough to shore to make it in safely if it decided to "baptize" you. Sometimes they will develop only a pinhole leak at a weak point. In other cases, the whole bladder can split wide open in an instant. Not good.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I doubt you can find original equipment replacement bladders of that "patchwork" rubber design. You will probably have to try to locate a similar shape and size for another craft, and make sure that the valve location is compatible. [/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Good Luck[/#0000ff]
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