Care Cleaning Storage

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12ft and 14ft Paddle Cat Rafts, River tubes, various PVC-constructed products care, cleaning and storage.

The primary purpose of this vessel is to provide a responsive platform for river running.

Not intended for commercial use.

Safety Warning and Caution Information

WARNING/CAUTION: RISK OF DROWNING OR SERIOUS INJURY

PFD Requirement: Always wear a properly fitted, Coast Guard-approved Type III or V Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while on the water. Helmets strongly recommended.

Alcohol & Drugs: Never operate this craft while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or
medication that impairs judgment or physical coordination.

Capacity Limits: Do not exceed the maximum weight capacity or passenger count label.
Overloading significantly increases the risk of capsizing or "tacoing" the raft.

River Classification: Ensure your skill level matches the river's classification. Do not attempt
Class IV or V rapids without advanced training and professional-grade safety support.

Avoid Entrapment: Loose lines create a high risk of foot or hand entrapment during a swim.

Inflation Pressure: Never over-inflate. Air expands in the sun. If the raft is sitting on a hot beach, "burp" the valves to release pressure. Over-pressurization can cause permanent seam failure.

Sharp Objects: While built for durability, avoid contact with sharp rocks,
submerged rebar, or fishing hooks, tree limbs, etc., which can puncture the air chambers.

Instructional Knowledge: Users should have a fundamental understanding of river reading, self-rescue techniques, and whitewater safety. This manual is a guide for the equipment only and is not a substitute for professional swift water rescue training.

Physical Ability: Operators should possess the physical strength to maneuver the craft and assist in re-entering the raft from the water if necessary.

Local Regulations: Always check local river permits, water levels, and weather forecasts before launching.

Tips:
1. Check the Weather: Monitor CFS (cubic feet per second) flow rates and weather forecasts. High water or lightning storms are grounds for canceling a trip.
2. The "Buddy" System: Never raft alone. Always travel with at least one other craft to ensure help is available in the event of a flip.
3. Float Plan: Leave a "Float Plan" with a reliable person on land, including your put-in location, take-out location, and expected return time.

2. Installation/Setup 

Recommended inflation: 2.5-3.0 PSI for tubes
Required tools and materials include a low-pressure pump or inflator and a valve wrench.

3. Maintenance

Guidelines for regular maintenance and inspection.

To keep your raft in peak performance, perform these checks before and after every river trip: Valve Inspection: Check valves for sand, silt, or debris that might prevent a tight seal. Use a valve wrench to ensure they are snug against the fabric.
Seam & Fabric Audit: Look for "scuffs" or deep abrasions. Addressing a small wear spot early with a "wear patch" prevents a full blowout later.

Cleaning instructions.
Proper cleaning prevents mold growth and chemical degradation of the inflatable material.

Post-Trip Rinse: Always rinse the raft with fresh water after use, especially if used in silty
or muddy rivers. Silt can act like sandpaper between the tubes and the frame.
Soap: Use a mild dish soap and a soft-bristle brush for stubborn dirt.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: NEVER use bleach, high-pressure washers, or petroleum-
based cleaners (like Goof-Off or acetone), as these will break down the fabric's coating.

UV Protection: After every use and cleaning apply a UV protectant (such as 303 Aerospace Protectant) to the entire surface. This acts like "sunscreen" for your raft and prevents the colors from fading and the material from becoming brittle. 

Storage recommendations.

How you store the raft during the off-season is just as important as how you use it.

Short-Term Storage (Between Trips): Deflate Slightly: If keeping the raft on a trailer, release enough air so the tubes are soft to the touch. This accounts for air expansion if the temperature rises. Always store indoors. Warranty void if stored outdoors.

Keep it Dry: Never store a rolled-up raft while it is wet. This can lead to "transfusion" or
mildew that permanently stains the fabric.

Long-Term/Winter Storage: The "Clean & Dry" Rule: Ensure the raft is 100% dry, including the floor.

Storage Environment: Store in a cool, dry, and dark location. Avoid outdoor storage
where temperature swings and UV exposure continue.

Pest Prevention: If storing in a garage or shed, ensure the raft is protected from rodents.
Mice have been known to nest in rolled-up rafts and chew through multiple layers.

The Best Method: Ideally, store the raft slightly inflated (just enough to hold its shape)
on a shelf or hanging system. Avoid tight folds, as "crease-marking" can weaken the material over several months.

Never store in direct sunlight.