Figure 7-36. Ungluing the Self-Bailer Circular Patches after Application of Heat.

TM 5-1940-321-13&P

c. Leaks at Hull Bottom and Transom. This corrective maintenance procedure is performed by

direct support personnel. Occasionally, water leaks will appear at the corners of the transom near the

bottom fabric. During the leak test (chapter 6, paragraph 6-4), these will appear as water leaking in the

area above the lower buoyancy tubes. Leaks in this area are not accessible without ungluing part of the

fabric flanges and regluing. An alternate procedure is to use a caulking or sealing compound to seal

against water entry. The area to be caulked must be completely dry and clean. Apply a 1/4inch diameter

bead of sealing compound, such as Sikaflex, inside the craft along the flange seam.

7-27. REPAIRING/REPLACING RUBBING STRAKES. Rubbing strakes are repaired and replaced by

direct support personnel. Rubbing strakes are replaced when they come badly worn. Repair and

replacement require a thorough understanding of the procedures in appendix F. Unglued areas may be

reglued (it is not necessary to remove the entire rubbing strake if the ungluing does not cover a

NOTE:

Rubbing strakes on the bottom should be replaced with the craft fully inflated and

flooring installed.

a. Center Bottom Rubbing Strake. Replacement of the center bottom rubbing strake (keelson)

requires removal and replacement of the metal keel shoe at the transom. The forward end of the center

rubbing strake is under the bow handle pad. To avoid removing and replacing the bow handle, the old

rubbing strake may be cut flush with the bottom of the bow handle pad. Begin gluing the new rubbing

strake flush with the bottom of the bow handle pad. Trim the excess length where the rubbing strake

passes up the back of the transom. When replacing the keel shoe, dip the screws in glue before installing

them to provide a seal against water entry. For best adhesion pull gently on the keelson during

installation; reactivate the glue as required.

7-55