Instructions
How to inflate a packraft?
In general:
Inflating with an inflation bag requires some practice. Here we give you the best tips and tricks. Electric pumps are also a quick and convenient alternative. If a pressure pump is used for inflation, we recommend not exceeding a pressure of 0.08 bar or 1.2 PSI.
Step 1:
The first step is to screw the inflation bag to the packraft. Two to three turns are sufficient. After screwing it down, turn the twisted inflation bag straight again so that the air can flow into the packraft undisturbed in the next step.
Step 2:
The second step is to fill the inflation bag. To do this, fill the inflation bag by trapping the air. Outdoors, the wind often helps. For indoor filling or when there is no wind, it can help to blow into the bag or fill it with a quick snapping motion.
Step 3:
Once the inflation bag is well filled, it is twisted at the upper end, rolled up slightly and then compressed between the arms and chest so that the air escapes into the packraft. Depending on the size of the packraft and experience, the process is repeated around 5-15 times.
Step 4:
The inflation bag itself does not have a non-return valve, as this would make the inflation process more difficult. It is therefore advisable to close the opening from the outside with your thumb as soon as your packraft is full.
Step 5:
After removing the inflation bag, the check valve is quickly screwed in. A little air usually escapes here. Finally, blow a few more times with your mouth or a hand pump and the packraft is ready for use.
Step 6:
Please note that the temperature has a considerable influence on the rigidity of your packrafts. After putting them into the cool water, it is best to re-inflate them. Never leave the inflated Packrafts in the sun for a long time.
Packraft assembly instructions
Backrest
The 4-point backrest is best installed before inflation. To do this, thread the elastic straps through the slit patches (as shown) and then tighten the backrest to the front fastenings.
Seat
The seat of our Packrafts is quickly fitted and is firmly secured using four-point Velcro fasteners. The valve should be facing upwards in order to be accessible.
Attaching the thigh straps
The thigh straps are attached at four points. It is advisable to attach the front (in the foot area) and rear fastenings first. The metal hooks can then be hooked into the bar and adjusted while seated in the packraft.
Coaming
The coaming is pushed in and plugged together. This requires some force, as the spray skirt should sit firmly in white water. If necessary (coaming tends to be supplied slightly longer), it is possible to shorten the coaming slightly, taking care not to create any sharp edges (file down if necessary).
Bow bag
The bow bag is attached to the bow loops provided and tightened. The long fastening straps make the bow bag flexible for use on all packrafts, including those from other manufacturers. Other luggage, e.g. a bicycle, can also be attached under the bow bag.
Footbrace
The footbrace can be adjusted according to leg length and threaded accordingly. It is often advisable not to inflate it fully for comfort. If you decide not to use the footrest, the space in the front can also be used for luggage in a dry bag.
Mounting the fin holder (or other adhesive parts)
In general:
The packrafter does it himself! Here are the detailed instructions for gluing TPU materials. You can find all the necessary materials and spare parts in our store. Our spare parts for bonding are also compatible with packrafts from other manufacturers.
Step 1: Positioning
The first step is to inflate the packraft well (except when repairing holes). Then attach the fin holder (with the fin attached) or the patch. To achieve maximum straight-line stability later on, we recommend placing it at the tail behind the tube.
Step 2: Marking
In the second step, mark the fastening part or spare part to be glued (patches, D-rings). A ballpoint pen or erasable whiteboard marker is very suitable for this. Make sure you also mark the areas that need to be left out when applying the adhesive.
Step 3: Roughening the bonding surfaces
Roughening the surfaces to be bonded provides an even better hold and is carried out on both the patch and the packraft. Then clean thoroughly with cleaning spirit.
Step 4: Apply hardener (consistency similar to water)
The hardener is corrosive and can cause injuries to the skin and mucous membranes (face and respiratory protection required). Use the brush to apply a layer of hardener to the marked area and the spare part to be bonded.
Step 5: Drying
Then wait approx. 5 minutes until the hardener has dried.
Step 6: Apply adhesive
The adhesive is also aggressively corrosive and causes injuries to the skin and mucous membranes (face and respiratory protection required). The adhesive is also applied to the packraft and adhesive part and left to dry for approx. 2 minutes. Dispose of empty tubes properly!
Step 7: Joining
After a short drying time, the parts to be bonded are now joined together. Please ensure that the work is carried out cleanly, as it is almost impossible to remove the parts again.
Step 8: Activate hardener - adhesive bond
Heat (40-60 °C maximum) and pressure are used to activate the chemical bond between the hardener, adhesive and TPU. A hot air dryer and a metal roller or spoon are used to apply as much pressure as possible to the heated areas.
Step 9: Cooling & drying
It is best to leave the freshly glued parts to cool and dry overnight. To ensure that the fastening rails do not stick to the packraft unintentionally, we recommend carefully threading a flat object through them.
Step 10: Attach the fin
Depending on the water, the fin can now be attached for better directional stability. It is best to attach the fin to the holder provided before inflating. A string can also be attached to the opening at the end of the fin to secure it in the water.
Care & usage
We recommend using the inflation bag for inflation and applying the residual pressure to the packraft by mouth. This procedure ensures sufficient pressure in the tubes and protects the material. If a pressure pump is used for inflation, we recommend not exceeding a pressure of 0.08 bar or 1.2 PSI.
Correct use / handling
We recommend that you take the following tips into account when handling our TIZIP® zippers:
- Operate the slider carefully. Pulling at an angle can have a negative effect on the tightness of the zippers or affect them in other ways.
- Avoid overstretching the ports and end pieces. Do not pull the two sides of the zipper apart forcefully.
- Take care not to fold or crush the zippers. This can impair the function.
- Close each zipper so that the slider is correctly positioned in the port to guarantee a tight seal.
Lagerung
- TIZIP® zippers should be stored completely closed and without bending.
- The open bearing can cause bends and thus lead to leaks.
- Make sure that the zipper is always stowed away dry and clean.
- Avoid high humidity and temperatures.
- If possible, work according to the FIFO principle in order to use the zippers purchased first.
Cleaning
- We recommend cleaning all our TIZIP® zippers with soapy water and a fine brush.
- Do not use solvents or aggressive cleaning agents, as these can negatively affect the function of the zipper.
- Dirt particles, especially between the teeth, can affect the sealing lip and thus impair the seal.
- If your TIZIP® is used to protect life or material, the user is obliged to check the sealing function before use.
Care
- If lubrication with sliding grease is necessary, please use the original from TIZIP® (lubrication instructions enclosed).
- Please clean the zipper in advance and correct lubrication before use of all TIZIP® types is crucial for the proper functioning of the zippers. SuperSeal zippers must be lubricated along the coupling links and the sealing lip.
- After lubricating, open and close the closure at least five times along its entire length.
- Correct lubrication before use is crucial for the proper functioning of the zipper!
When inflated, our packrafts can be carried comfortably by the installed handles. It is also possible to hold or carry the packraft by the thigh straps and fastening loops. Please do not carry the packraft by the spraydeck or the coaming or pull on it with a heavy load.
Packrafts should always be stored in a dry and dust-free environment. The latter is particularly important when using a TZIP storage system.
A dry, well-ventilated room without direct sunlight is best for storage. Leave your inflated Packrafts to dry well after you return home from your paddling trip. Pay particular attention to moisture between the edges. The packraft can be rolled or folded very small without causing any damage. The coaming can also be double-wrapped and tucked together without any problems.
The Packrafts can be used in salt water or chlorinated pools without restriction. Before storing them, however, you should make sure to thoroughly rinse off any salt or chlorine residue.
The main components of a packraft are the tubes, the floor and optionally the spray deck. These are sewn and thermo-welded together after production. However, they must be fixed with tape before welding. The tape used for this remains on the packraft and cannot be removed after welding. This tape is still visible at the transitions and may give the impression that the spraydeck or the floor is detaching from the packraft.
However, there is no need to worry here, as only the remains of the fixing tape will come off over time. The spraydeck and floor are firmly welded to the tubes and are extremely resilient. We are not aware of any cases of detachment.
In any case, getting out of the packraft should be practiced thoroughly on dry land. The red pull handle for getting out is also easy to recognize underwater. When putting on the spray skirt, make sure that it is always completely outside and freely accessible.
1. Non-swimmers do not belong in a packraft. Anyone who takes non-swimmers out on the water carries a high risk.
2. Avoid paddling alone if possible. Always leave where and until when you plan to travel.
3. Take water sports and safety courses with certified instructors.
4. Find out about the dangers of the water - water levels, tides, currents, weirs and weather conditions. We strongly advise against paddling during floods
5. Avoid weirs, power stations and dams of all kinds. There is often a danger to life here, so it is recommended to portage them.
6. Take first aid and rescue equipment with you on the water.
7. Wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Cold weather and water can cause hypothermia.
8. Assess your ability correctly and plan tours based on the weakest group member.
9. Keep your distance from other watercraft, especially all motor vessels and sailing vessels. Packrafts almost always have to give way and are difficult to see by the skipper.
10. Observe the inland waterway and maritime regulations. They apply to all shipping lanes and canals and contain binding rules for all watercraft.
11. Put on a life jacket or, on large bodies of water, a fainting-proof life jacket and head protection. Wear a cold-weather suit and helmet when whitewater rafting.
12. Particular dangers exist on white water and on the coast. These waters can only be navigated with special equipment and by experienced paddlers, ideally with expert guidance and local knowledge.
13. The emergency exit from the packraft should be practiced. We recommend practicing quick exits on land, in the pool or under supervision.
14. Additional modifications to the packraft must not impair getting in and out.
15. A wet re-entry on the water should be safely mastered before navigating open waters, as well as white water.