TM 5-1940-321-13&P
a. Materials Required
Silver Pen
Water Source
Bucket
Stable means to support craft such as benches, chairs, trailers, lifting sling
b. Procedures for the Water Leak Test
( 1 ) To easily observe the bottom during the water leak test, the craft must be
supported 3 to 5 feet above the ground. This can be accomplished by placing
the craft on the trailer, using the lifting sling, or placing the lower buoyancy
tubes on benches, tables, or chairs.
( 2 ) Verify that the craft is properly Inflated (chapter 5, paragraph 5-7).
CAUTION
Do not place excessive amounts of water in the craft. The weight or large
amounts of water may cause failure of the lifting sling or other method
used to support the craft. (Water weights 8 pounds per gallon).
( 3 ) To check for possible leaks near the transom, slightly raise the bow of the
supported craft.
( 4 ) Secure the self-bailers by rolling and clamping, or use a small line to tie them in
a raised position.
( 5 ) Pour several buckets of water into the craft. Avoid spilling water on the outside
of the craft. Water spilled on the outer surface of the craft will make it difficult to
locate the leak.
( 6 ) Visually inspect the transom area for water leaking out of the craft. Use the
silver pen to mark exact area of the leak. Pay particular attention to the
self-bailers where they attach to the transom.
( 7 ) Lower the bow to a level position. Visually inspect the bottom for leaks. Use a
silver pen to mark the location of any leaks.
( 8 ) Raise the transom slightly above the level of the bow so that water moves to
the bow area. Visually inspect for leaks in the bottom near the bow. Mark any
leaks using the silver pen.
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