[Paddlewise] P&H Capella Leakage

Jim said:
<snip>I am getting some leakage in the rear compartment of my fiberglass
P&H
Capella.
<snip>

You gotta do a leak test. I use a spare hatch cover with a tire valve
mounted in the middle. A quick shot of compressed air, then cover the
entire surface of the boat with soapy water, and bingo...where there's
bubbles, there's troubles. The dealer should be able to do this or
provide the hatch, and a bicycle pump can be substituted. Don't over
inflate, especially with a flimsier lay up (not your boat, however).
There are other ways, of course, but that's the one I use, and do it
every 6 months as part of my maintenance schedule. Maintenance, oops,
sorry to use a swear word!

If you do find a source of leakage that is not structural, such as a
through-deck bolt or some such thing, I like to use a thinned version of
a good marine caulking agent. I find two applications of the thinner
formula penetrates and seals. I know, I have a very "holy" kayak.

I don't get much direct leakage through the actual hatch seals of the
VCP covers, whether at pool practice or on the open salt chuck. Certain
conditions will cause the hatch covers to suck-in like they are going to
implode. I replaced my SS rings (which used to pop open all the time)
with 1/2" bungy cord, and have nary a problem now.

A new kayak should not let water in -- only a canoe does that :-) I see
a lot of new boats taking on small amounts of water, and I always advise
new boat owners to hound their retailer until satisfied, because leaks
only get worse. I will no longer paddle with a person who's kayak leaks.
(I'm one of those kind of guys that trouble always seems to follow, so I
have to eliminate some of the potential :-)).

Now, I really do need to get back to sanding my kayak. BFN.

BC'in Ya
Doug Lloyd

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