TM 5-1940-321-13&P
b. Patching Fabric with the Onboard Repair Kit. Patching fabric with the onboard repair kit is
performed by direct support personnel. Punctures in the air chambers or bottom fabric may be patched
using the onboard repair kit provided with each craft. The repair kit and its contents are described in
paragraph 3-3f. The patches applied with the single component glue in the repair kit are not considered as
permanent as the patches applied with the two-component glue under controlled temperature and humidity
conditions as described in Appendix F. However, if care is used in applying field patches, their service life
approaches that of permanent patches. Field patches are normally replaced with permanent patches
applied in accordance with Appendix F when the craft receives maintenance at the intermediate level. In
addition to patching fabric tears or punctures, the onboard repair kit can be used to place patches on fabric
areas that are worn to the extent the threads are visible. Additional patches may be cut from rolled fabric.
Refer to Appendix F for fabric types and part numbers. Patches should be large enough to extend 3 inches
in all directions from any tear or puncture. Apply patches using the materials in the onboard repair kit and
the following procedure. A patch should not smaller than 6 inches in diameter.
NOTE:
Do not apply patches in rain or direct sunlight. The surfaces to be patched must be clean and dry.
( 1 ) Obtain the onboard repair kit from the stowage pouch near the bow.
( 2 ) Center a circular patch in place over the fabric puncture.
( 3 ) Using the pumice stone, trace the outline of the patch on the fabric of the craft.
Remove the patch.
( 4 ) Using the pumice stone scuff the fabric area within the traced circle. Scuff the
entire area lightly and evenly. Scuffing must be deep enough for gluing but never
deep enough to expose the threads in the fabric.
( 5 ) Scuff one side of the circular patch lightly and evenly using the pumice stone.
The correct side of the patch to scuff is the shinier side (which is also lighter in
color).
( 6 ) Brush away residue dust from the craft and patch.
( 7 ) Apply the glue to the patch and the craft. Use a finger to spread the glue thinly
and evenly over the surface. Take care to ensure the outer edges are covered.
7-3
