Accessory Installation & Repair

To install footcones, D-rings and other accessories on Vanguard PVC rafts and IK's using Stabond UK-148 adhesive use the following procedures:

  1. Inflate the boat in a dry and warm place. Although you can install accessories with the boat deflated, most people (including the factory) install accessories with the boat inflated to working pressure (hard).
  2. Clean the surface of the boat. It needs to be free of any oils or dirt.
  3. If you are replacing a worn d-ring or lift handle DO NOT attempt to remove the accessory! Cut out the webbing and thread. Cut down all high spots and install new D-ring or lift handle over existing patch.
  4. Outline the patch portion of the D-ring or handle. Take a #2 pencil and trace the outline edge of the patch or accessory you are installing onto the surface you are installing it on.
  5. Cut a paint brush down to size. Take a common paint brush of the appropriate width for the installation (usually 1-2 inches wide) and cut the brush down to where you get stiff bristles (usually 1/4-1/2 an inch of bristle).
  6. Mix the adhesive with the catalyst. We recommend a mix of 6-8% catalyst to adhesive (because the 10-12% full strength sets up too fast). Use a small tin can (like a tuna or sardine can) and mix 6-8 ounces at a time.
  7. Apply the adhesive. Use the brush to apply the adhesive to the outlined surface of the boat and to the bonding surface of the accessory you are installing. Make brush strokes generally moving in one direction from one side to the other. You want to get good contact of the adhesive to the PVC coating. One medium coat on each surface is all that is needed if done properly.  Avoid getting adhesive on any other surface except those to be used. To clean up any spills, wipe with a cloth sparingly dampened with MEK (Methyl Ethyl Ketone).
  8. Allow adhesive to breath off solvent vapors for 10-20 minutes (depending on temp and humidity). The adhesive should loose virtually all of its stickiness and feel mostly dry to the touch when it's ready for installation.
  9. Heat both surfaces with a hair dryer. The adhesive will "reactivate" or "tack up" and become sticky again but it will feel more like the actual fabric is sticky instead of just a layer of glue.
  10. Install the accessory. Work either from the center out or from one side to another as you install to avoid air bubbles forming.
  11. Use a roller to smooth the accessory patch. Use a roller or a tool with a thin yet rounded edge to apply pressure in order to bond the accessory to the surface of the raft. Work from the inside out or from a seam to work out any air bubbles or wrinkles this way. Keep applying heat from the hair dryer as you roll or work the accessory onto the boat. The heat will help work out wrinkles and air bubbles.
  12. Wait 24 hours. Under normal conditions we recommend you allow 24 hours at above 65 degrees Fahrenheit for the accessory to cure prior to putting the boat into service.