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Inflating Inflatable Kayaks (IKs):
To properly inflate your STAR IK, inflate both main tubes until they take shape. Then top them off to 2.5 psi.
Because of the small tube size, slight over-inflation is acceptable to increase performance. The drop-stitch floor
insert should be inflated to 8 psi for best performance. Last, inflate any thwarts to full 2.5 psi.
Inflating Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Boards:
Our SUP boards are made using drop-stitch material. This construction, using thousands of strong threads
to join the top and bottom surfaces, allows use of much higher pressures than are safe in round inflation
chambers. Inflate your board to the stiffness that gives you good performance, up to a maximum of 18 psi.
Monitoring Inflation Pressures:
As temperatures and altitude change, the air pressure inside your boat will fluctuate. You may need to make
adjustments to the pressure in the chambers throughout the day. Always bring a hand pump along for adjusting
air pressure as needed. For example, transporting a fully-inflated boat on a hot day or when gaining altitude can
lead to over-inflation. On the other hand, cold air and water temperatures will cause a reduction in air pressure.
However, as the air temperature outside warms, the pressure inside the boat will increase. As this happens,
you'll need to release a small amount of air from each chamber. Check the air pressure regularly throughout the
day and adjust accordingly.
NEVER pull a fully inflated boat up on land for any extended period of time, especially on a warm day, without
releasing some air in the chambers to avoid over-inflation damage.
STAR inflatables are built to withstand higher pressures than we recommend. However, over-inflation puts
strain on the seams and shortens the life of your boat. An over-inflated boat is also in danger of explosive
decompression (blowing apart at the seams). The STAR warranty (see page 10) does not cover damage caused
by explosive decompression.
VALVES
Inflation/Deflation Valves:
All current STAR rafts, catarafts, IKs and SUP boards feature either Leafield C7 or D7 inflation/deflation valves.
To open the valve, first remove the valve cap. Then press down on the spring-loaded valve stem and turn it
counter-clockwise. The valve stem will now be locked down in the open position, allowing air to move freely in
and out through the valve. To close the valve, push down on the valve stem and turn clockwise. The stem will
pop back up, sealing the valve shut. In the closed position, you can still pump air into the chamber, but when
you remove the pump, the valve will not allow air to escape. When you're done, screw the plastic valve cap
back on to keep water and dirt out of the inner valve.
Important Tip: When deflating your fully inflated boat that has adjoining chambers separated by internal baffles,
do not fully open only one chamber. This puts excessive strain on the internal baffles and can lead to baffle
rupture. Either work together with someone to release the pressure in the chambers simultaneously, or release
small amounts out of each chamber until high pressure is relieved and individual valves can be fully opened
safely.
Cleaning the C7 and D7 Inflate/Deflate Valves:
If the inner parts of your inflate/deflate valves become dirty, the seal may not shut completely against the valve
body, allowing air to escape. You can clean the inner valve parts to restore the airtight seal. Your repair kit
contains an aluminum valve wrench which can be used to remove the valve from the raft. Turn clockwise to
tighten and counter-clockwise to loosen. The outer half of the valve unscrews from the inner half. It's easier to
loosen the outer half when the chamber is inflated. When you remove the outer half of the valve, take care not
to lose the inner half inside the chamber. With the outer half in your hand, push down and turn the valve stem
counter-clockwise. This lifts the rubber seal off the valve base. Use something like a cotton swab to remove any
dirt and grime that has built up on the rubber seal. Hand tighten the outer half back into the valve base. Inflate
the chamber fully, and then use the valve wrench to completely tighten the valve.
Sealing surfaces to be cleaned
800.635.5202 | starinflatables.com
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