TM 5-1940-321-13&P
6-3. AIR LEAK TEST. The air leak test is performed by unit support maintenance personnel whenever
the craft fails the 24-hour air pressure retention test (chapter 5, paragraph 5-19). The air leak test will
identify which component requires corrective maintenance to restore air tightness. A complete air leak
test is recommended. However, the test can be performed on individual air compartments and valves.
This technique is useful when time is limited and the general location of the leak is obvious due to the
deflated appearance of an air chamber.
NOTE:
For a complete air leak test, the craft must be out of the water with the outboard
engine removed.
a.
Materials Required.
Water Hose
Silver Pens
Paint Brush
Bucket
Detergent, Dish Soap, Liquid
b. Procedures for Air Leak Test.
( 1 ) Check air pressure retention in accordance with chapter 5, paragraph 5-19.
( 2 ) Verify that the four intercommunicating valve caps and the keel valve cap are
firmly hand tight.
( 3 ) Remove the red plastic caps from the CO2 overpressure valves.
( 4 ) Remove paddles from their stowage sheathes and remove the flooring (chapter
2, paragraph 2-8b).
( 5 ) With the craft right side up, wet the craft using a hose.
( 6 ) Mix solution of liquid dish soap and water in a bucket.
( 7 ) Use the paintbrush (figure 6-1) to brush the soap and water solution on each
valve. Be sure that the valve and the fabric immediately around it are
completely wet and covered with the soap and water solution. Keep the area
wet with the soap solution.
6-5