Leak Tests - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

greenscales · 01-08-2010, 11:50 PM

I had a lot of problems solving similar problems with my kayak--and after 10 years it is the driest it has ever been.

Diagnostics - you need access to an air compressor then get soapy water and a rag or sponge. Keep everything sealed except your drain plug. Soap up all seals around hatches, if you have any other known holes (like for transducer wires) cover them with duct tape, then blow air in the drain plug. You may need a second person to do this while you use the soapy water to recover all of the seals and look for bubbles. If you have any leak issues, the bubbles will be apparent. If none show, then hit the scupper holes and other likely areas. If still nothing shows - then definitely get a second person and cover the whole kayak with the soap and water.

Once you determine where the leak is located, then re-post and you will get a bunch of fix recommendations. If you still do not find the source of the leak, then at least you now have a clean kayak.

Good luck.

RASTAn · 01-09-2010, 09:00 AM

Bring that fish killer up to us in Oside Jay!

Jim Sammons LJKF · 01-09-2010, 10:01 AM

The most common areas for leaks on the older Prowlers were the scuppers, keel line from dragging and, depending on year of boat, the rudder attachment point. I would start with the scuppers. Often you can see the leak point upon a simple visual inspection. If not Duct tape closed the bottom of the scuppers so they are basically a cup. Fill them with water, soapy water is better. Make sure all hatches are closed then do the air pressure test, as described above, through the drain hole. If you do not have a compressor a battery operated pump for air mattresses works great and usually has a fitting that will wedge right into the drain hole.

wade · 01-09-2010, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RASTAn

Bring that fish killer up to us in Oside Jay!

I wish I had some fish left man!...
I only have one bug left as far as the food goes..
Dont ever say that phuckin' filthy six letter "F" word!..

(note to self..get out soon & get me some fresh dinner!..)

_______

I'm going to soap test it now & see..Thanks! will post the next trouble shooting stage asap..
cross your fingers and not my lines..

01-08-2010, 11:50 PM	#1
greenscales greenscales Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Monrovia Posts: 116	Air instead of water I had a lot of problems solving similar problems with my kayak--and after 10 years it is the driest it has ever been. Diagnostics - you need access to an air compressor then get soapy water and a rag or sponge. Keep everything sealed except your drain plug. Soap up all seals around hatches, if you have any other known holes (like for transducer wires) cover them with duct tape, then blow air in the drain plug. You may need a second person to do this while you use the soapy water to recover all of the seals and look for bubbles. If you have any leak issues, the bubbles will be apparent. If none show, then hit the scupper holes and other likely areas. If still nothing shows - then definitely get a second person and cover the whole kayak with the soap and water. Once you determine where the leak is located, then re-post and you will get a bunch of fix recommendations. If you still do not find the source of the leak, then at least you now have a clean kayak. Good luck.

01-09-2010, 10:01 AM	#3
Jim Sammons LJKF Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: San Diego CA Posts: 947	The most common areas for leaks on the older Prowlers were the scuppers, keel line from dragging and, depending on year of boat, the rudder attachment point. I would start with the scuppers. Often you can see the leak point upon a simple visual inspection. If not Duct tape closed the bottom of the scuppers so they are basically a cup. Fill them with water, soapy water is better. Make sure all hatches are closed then do the air pressure test, as described above, through the drain hole. If you do not have a compressor a battery operated pump for air mattresses works great and usually has a fitting that will wedge right into the drain hole. __________________ Jim Sammons La Jolla Kayak Fishing The Kayak Fishing Show JimSammons.com

01-09-2010, 09:00 AM	#2
RASTAn Junior Join Date: May 2009 Posts: 13	Bring that fish killer up to us in Oside Jay!