Inflation

[FYN409]

Well, new to owning a Dinghy. What do you guys use to measure the pressure when inflating your boat? I see there are recommended pressures, but how do you measure it?

-Ryan

 

[Quint4]

My Zodiac says inflate "drum tight".

 

[sbw1]

I do it by feel using one of those foot operated pumps.

 

[Sundancer]

I use the TLAR method. That looks about right. If it flexes while rowing, add more air. If it flexes while under power from the motor, add more air. We just row everywhere and all my friends tell me I need more air in my dinghy. So, I try to pump more in than i think it needs. I've seen pumps that have a gauge on them, but I'm not that sophisticated!

 

[tobnpr]

The pump that came with my Airdeck has a built-in gauge.

 

[Henry Boyd]

With the foot pump when the hose pops off the pump fitting its done. We also have an electric pump that has a pressure release valve that you set to the rated psi.

Henry

 

[Mr Salt]

My Zodiac, as I recall, has 8psi in the tubes and 11psi in the floor.

 

[barryg]

I bought the Bravo "Superturbo" BST12 pump and you can set the pressure you want the pump to stop at. It has battery clips and is so much better than trying to use a foot pump; especially if you have an air floor.

 

[quality time]

I bought a hand pump from WM with a gauge, doesn't seem very accurate though.

 

[Alex F]

I also do it by feel and what looks right. Obviously getting a gauge is best option, but it's not a must for me. Been doing it for years and I know when the dink has enough air. Consider the outside air temps, during hot summer days extra pressure will be added and released as the air cools down.

 

[wetpaint]

If it pops, I know I over inflated.........No, I use the same tenique I used when my ex wife got silicone implants.......The feel and touch method........I think when I first inflated I used the guage that came with the dinghy...Then it was just the right feel.....

 

[Texashornet]

Hey Wetpaint - the technique using silicon breast implants as a gauge sounds like the way to go - you dont reckon your ex would mind do you?