Question about inflating my Zodiac

zodiacgr · 05 April 2021, 05:21

Hi,

I recently purchased a Grand Raid Mk2 from 2015. I am new to boating so I'm not really sure how to measure the pressure in the tube. I know I'm supposed to put 3.4psi but is there a gauge I'm supposed to use?

Thanks

Lee argyle · 05 April 2021, 10:57

Quote:

Originally Posted by zodiacgr

Hi,

I recently purchased a Grand Raid Mk2 from 2015. I am new to boating so I'm not really sure how to measure the pressure in the tube. I know I'm supposed to put 3.4psi but is there a gauge I'm supposed to use?

Thanks

https://www.amazon.co.uk/LIOOBO-Pres...7616607&sr=8-5

brveagle · 05 April 2021, 21:32

The GR's still have the i/c valves correct? If i were you, I'd just invest in a nice electric pump with a shut off switch when you hit the correct PSI. I think you'll be surprised how one PSI low really changes the handling of the boat.

pagick · 06 April 2021, 17:21

Quote:

Originally Posted by brveagle

The GR's still have the i/c valves correct? If i were you, I'd just invest in a nice electric pump with a shut off switch when you hit the correct PSI. I think you'll be surprised how one PSI low really changes the handling of the boat.

Definitely the way to go.
In a pinch I’ve used my knee to get a general idea of pressure. Put your knee and all your weight on it. If the pushing makes wrinkles around your knee it’s low. You should see a very slight indent with out any wrinkles.

Navajoturquoise · 06 April 2021, 19:36

An electric pump with a shut-off switch is definitely the way to go. They are relatively inexpensive while being an efficient tool in keeping your RIB in top shape. I use a Bravo One Stage inflator pump with great results. They are presently on sale for $165 cad with free shipping at
https://www.blyacht.com/en/bravo-hig...r-pump-1496132

zodiacgr · 06 April 2021, 19:54

I was mistaken, I actually have a Mk2 classic , not a grand raid. Anyways the plaque says to inflate to 3.48 psi so I will do that. I purchased a pressure gauge from defender.com so I’ll be using that to ensure proper pressure at all times. Thanks for all the advice

John McOmie · 04 July 2021, 23:43

Hi, I used a foot pump which took me about 30 mins to get up to the correct pressure as per the gauge....or so I thought! Recently bought a bravo electric pump and it takes 7 mins and the pressure is like chalk and cheese, I'd never have gone to 3.4 psi as mine suggests with the foot pump! Well worth the investment if it just saves time, improves performance and saves a heart attack!!

Capricious · 04 August 2021, 21:04

what if you inflate when it is cool out and while away the sun hits the rib,will the tubes burst?
12 foot AB center console
Dana

John McOmie · 04 August 2021, 21:20

Nothing has popped but obviously the water is cooler so I guess there's a mathematical balance going on somewhere!

lightning · 06 August 2021, 17:29

l usually inflate ours to 2.4psi

lt seems fine at that pressure, l use a Bravo BTP12 which l've had for years and has never broken down.

Before that l used an electric air pump, l was new to boating and l didn't realise it wasn't putting enough pressure into the boat as it seemed fine on the canal.

When we launched at Windermere the transom seemed to move a bit and l borrowed a better pump from someone. lt turned out my tubes were at 1psi.

l bought the Bravo dual action pump the same day