Inflatable Valve Has Slow Leaks

[Pelagic]

I have never taken one apart, so no idea how they are put together

Has anyone had experience repairing what appears to be very slow leaks on RIB valves?

I am assuming that over the years, the valves have gathered salt crystals or perhaps there is a deteriorated rubber O ring to pressure seal the valve after pumping up, causing a slow leak

My first thought was to try and wash the valves out with Silicone spray, but maybe someone has had actual experience on fixing this problem and can advise….. Thanks!

[Hud3]

Pelagic,

Mine had a slow leak, and it was a new dinghy. Turns out that it was a simple fix. I just slathered on some silicone grease. Your plan to clean and lube the valve mechanism is a good one, and with some silicone grease on the threads and O-ring you might solve the problem.

[sailingaway221]

Deflate it, clean with fresh water and slather seal in vaseline......worked on mine better than I hoped!

[Pelagic]

Thanks Guys.... Will try on these 3 inflatables and let you know which method worked best....cheers!

[bstreep]

I would recommend the silicone grease over vaseline. Vaseline is incompatible with some plastics. The silicone grease you can buy at HD in the plumbing section. Comes in a small, circular silver dollar sized gray container.