S pringtime brings kayak adventures. For many enthusiasts, winter layup is done quickly; needed upkeep and repairs often wait until next season. The season’s here, so it’s that time again. Fortunately, most kayak upkeep is fairly simple and quick. Usually a simple cleanup with soapy water makes it ready. For those with more pressing issues, read on.
CRACKS AND HOLES
Many popular kayaks are made from rotomolded polyethylene plastic, which is very easy to repair. In emergencies, a roll of duct tape and a high-powered blow dryer can temporarily seal even a large crack. Be sure to find both ends of the crack and drill a small hole right at the ends, to ensure the crack won’t travel further. A more permanent fix means obtaining a plastic welder and plastic welding rods (Harbor Freight, www.harborfreight.com, has an 80-watt model for less than $20 with a 50-pack of plastic welding rods). A little practice with the welder and rods is all that’s needed to effect a decent-looking repair that won’t leak.
For larger holes, the plastic filler rods won’t be enough; you’ll need to find a donor hull to contribute a section. In a pinch, those blue 55-gallon plastic drums also work well. The hole must be roughed up around the edges, cleaned with soap and water and dried. The filler piece should be cut to fit with a slight overlap; beveling the edges helps. The plastic filler rods and welder melt the piece into place. While the plastic’s still hot, smooth the seams of the repair using an old spoon. Be sure to also work the seams from the inside, to ensure that leaks won’t appear from incomplete fill. A very detailed repair manual for molded plastic hulls is available here.
BROKEN AND LOST PARTS
Lost drain plugs, broken footrests and hatch covers, and pulled-out fittings (such as tiedowns used to hold gear in place) are common. These parts are typically screwed into the polyethylene, so replacement means removing the broken part, finding a new one and mounting it. A slightly larger screw may have be used to keep the part tight to the boat; stainless is recommended. A great parts and accessories source is Sea-Lect Designs (www.sealectdesigns.com), an online and catalog store dedicated to kayak enthusiasts; these guys seemingly have everything; stainless hardware, deck hatches and covers, footbraces, bungee, deck line and safety gear.
Even if your boat needs no upkeep or repair, you might want to customize it for your needs—for example, you can install more deck plate covers for better access. You can install tiedowns for a cooler, fishing tackle containers, duffel bags, or extra paddles. Use these resources to get your boat ready for the season; you’ll enjoy it much more and make better use of it as well.