Highfield air valve

[Sailorman Ed]

I recently acquired an older Highfield aluminum RIB. The valve looks like my AB valve except the AB center is spring loaded and the Highfield center looks different and doesn't move and stops the air being pumped in. I see the hex shape and something stainless under the hex. Am I supposed to rotate the hex to open the valve? It does not turn by hand so am asking before I force something.
thanks in advance.

[Sailorman Ed]

Ok, I am back to this dingy again and suspect the hose for a Highfield may be different. Here is the one I have which has nothing to push on the center.


Also, I have a tear right next to the front handle. How do I carefully remove the handle?

[chris mac]

Pushing in the hex shaped end will vent the air, to deflate the tube. When filling, the air pressure from the pump will push thru the valve and inflate the tube. Stopping the pump allows the valve to close.
As long as you can get a seal with the hose fitting, it will work.
In terms of removing the handle, adhesive remover will work but it will work on anything it contacts. So working with small amounts and lots of patience. Make sure the product doesn't hurt hypalon. (I think all highfields are hypalon)
Although the tube look pretty rough. I'm guessing there are quite a few patches needing to be redone.

[PippaB]

Originally Posted by chris mac

.... (I think all highfields are hypalon)...

Most Highfields, certainly the Classic line with which I am most familiar, are available in both PVC and Hypalon, have to figure out which to determine repair options.

STANDARD FEATURES

ORCA® Hypalon or Valmex® PVC tube – Welded seams (PVC) ....

[Jim Cate]

Originally Posted by PippaB

Most Highfields, certainly the Classic line with which I am most familiar, are available in both PVC and Hypalon, have to figure out which to determine repair options.

And inspecting the seams to see if they are welded or lapped and glued is how you discern between the two materials.

Jim