Inflation valve wont close

chris101 · 22 August 2021, 21:00

Just prepping my RIB ready for a launch tomorrow, topping up the chambers, however the last one to fill didn't auto close when I removed the pump nozzle, so proceeded to dump most of the .25Bar, tried it again and the same happened, however 3rd time lucky.

Just wondering if there is a quick fix for a sticky valve? (the RIB is brand new but the dealer is a 3 hour drive away, so will try and fix this myself).

Its an bayonet type fitting, push and twist.

Many thanks,

Chris

willk · 22 August 2021, 21:09

Please excuse my question - but are you aware that generally the centers twist to lock open?

chris101 · 22 August 2021, 21:18

Yes, I had to manually rotate the centre to unlock and close the valve, just don't know why it doesn't instantly auto unlock like the other 5 valves. Its surprising how much air can be lost in the time it takes to remove the filler hose.

willk · 22 August 2021, 22:04

Hmmm. You should fill them in the unlocked/closed position?

Fenlander · 22 August 2021, 23:38

Sometimes the way the twist on/off of the pump hose and the clearance to any particular valve push/twist to lock/unlock can be a bit out so the valve lock is operated open/closed by the action of putting the hose on or off. Sometimes my Zodiac valves do this so I'm always ready to reset the valve the split second the hose comes off.

TmMorris · 23 August 2021, 07:41

The old type valve with the push on pipe and central cross were infamous for getting locked open by the pipe during pumping.

I would guess that if a modern valve design is doing this then maybe the particular valve is at fault rather than it being a complete design issue?

If it keeps occurring on one particular valve and it's not from anything that you're doing then it would be simple enough to replace the valve?

neil.mccrirrick · 23 August 2021, 08:08

Could just be dirt or something in there. Spray some soap and water into the valve then try a little wd40 to give it some lubrication first

Solgear · 23 August 2021, 17:29

I'd be curious to see a photo of what type of valve it is. I would also discourage WD40 as it attracts dirt which is something you don't want in your valve. Need lubrication? 303 would be a better choice.