BayLee 1 The Ultimate River Runner— NEW! from Feathercraft
KNOW YOUR PLASTIC Not all polyethylene is created equal. Most manufacturers use lay- ered high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Alternatively, a few boats out there, including Jackson Kayak’s Elite lineup, are made of a variation called high-density crosslinked polyethylene (HDXLPE). Both types of poly are weldable, but HDXLPE is a lot trickier. “Its
melting point is very close to its burning point,” Dors warns. This makes not scorching HDXLPE more difficult for most people with- out professional experience and highly specialized equipment. If you’re not sure what type of plastic you’re working with, con- tact the manufacturer.
NOT ALL PLASTIC IS CREATED EQUAL
IN YOUR TOOLBOX You can weld plastic with either a heat gun or plastic welding iron. “The key is providing direct and constant heat,” Dors says. Hot air can pool material so it’s important to use a high quality heat gun with the proper focusing tip nozzle. A plastic welding iron may work better since it provides a more focused, consistent heat. If your boat’s manufacturer doesn’t sell poly welding sticks, they
can be found at some auto or motorcycle body shops or online. For a professional look, try matching colors, or go with whatever you can get your hands on—chicks dig scars. If you’re working on a particularly large crack, you’ll want rein-
forcement that will help the repair to hold. Use mesh for cracks in flatter surfaces like the hull or decks, and rods to support cracks in awkward areas such as around cockpit combing. Stainless steel or aluminum work best becasue they won’t rust. Aluminum is lighter. Lastly, get your hands on a good scraper, some sand paper, a file and a surform for prepping and finishing.
➔ Two Air Chambers ➔ Lightweight and Compact for Packrafting ➔ 3 kg (6.5lb) 60 x 25 x 20cm (24 x 10 x 8") ➔ Made in Canada
www.feathercraft.com 888.681.8437
Now Self Bailing
Tools and supplies.
www.rapidmag.com
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