Caring for your Inflation Bag
The inflation bag is designed to be light, easy to use, and easy to repair. To extend its life and to deal with common field problems, remember these points:
- The inflation bag is made of silicone-impregnated nylon. It is super-light, slippery (useful in preventing objects in your pack from snagging and ripping it), and has a high tensile strength. It is water resistant but not 100% waterproof or airtight. Silicone-nylon cuts and burns easily. If the fabric snags on an object, it can rip. Stow your inflation bag inside your pack where it won't snag on brush or be exposed to sparks from an open fire.
- The PVC nozzle & interior fitting of your inflation bag are held together by friction. This is by design. However, the PVC fittings can work loose over time. To re-snug the fittings, just press the two PVC fittings back together, tapping lightly with a rock or hammer if necessary. This friction-fit enables quick field repair of a broken nozzle.
- Replacing a damaged nozzle with common hardware: The PVC fittings on your inflation bag can be found at Home Depot, Lowe's, or any other hardware store that carries a selection of pipe fittings. The nozzle piece is a standard 3/4" thread PVC plumbing part. Not only can broken or lost parts be replaced at many hardware stores, but an alternative inflation system can be constructed if desired.