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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find and repair air leaks?
- If you are losing air pressure, (aside from pressure loss commonly caused by
colder temperatures), check the boat over for leaks. Start by checking the
valves first. The best tool to find leaks is soapy water in a spray bottle. A leaky
valve is rare, but if you do find a leak we can send you a replacement valve.
We recommend mixing soap and water in a spray bottle. Spray around the
valve. If you see bubbles forming, check your valve fitting and base and be
sure the valve insert is screwed on tight. You can apply glue from the repair kit
to seal small leaks around the valve or holes where the nylon string enters the
valve assembly. If you continue to have problems with the valve, it's probably
time to order new one.
- To find tiny leaks, take floor boards out, fully inflate boat until it's hard to the
touch. Put some liquid detergent in a bucket of water and scrub it all over the
boat with rag or big wash brush. Watch for elusive or tiny bubbles. When you
find the first leak, keep looking. You might as well fix them all at the same
time! Remember, the number one cause of slow leaks is due to poorly fitted
valves. Unscrew the valve and clean the area. Make sure the little rubber O-
rings are still good. They are the cheapest repair possible.
- If you have no luck finding a slow leak with air bubbles, inflate the boat to it's
maximum air pressure and try to listen for the leak. If you can narrow the area
down, return with a spray bottle to identify the source of the leak.
- Punctures less than 1/8" in size can be repaired simply without a patch.
Deflate your boat, then clean and dry the area to be repaired. Apply a small
drop of glue to cover the puncture and let dry for 12 hours. If you need to get
on the water sooner, let dry for 30 minutes and then inflate the boat, inflating
the compartment with the repair only 3/4 full. This repair might not be
permanent so add a drop again at a later date to make it permanent. - Your Inflatable Boats come with a repair kit as standard equipment. It is
recommended to do repairs in dry weather. Humidity will decrease glue bond.
Cut a piece of repair material large enough to overlap the damaged area by
approximately 1" and round off the edges. Apply glue to the under side of the
patch and around the area to be repaired. Too much glue will often interfere
with a proper repair. Allow adhesive to become tacky for 5 minutes, and then
place patch on the damaged area. Use a weight to apply 3-5 lbs. of pressure
for 24 hours. After patch has dried, apply glue around the edges for a
complete seal (dry 6 hours). IMPORTANT: Click here to read full instructions
before starting ANY repairs.
What are the differences between air and plywood floors? Is an air floor rigid enough
to stand on?
to stand on?
Once inflated, a high pressure air floor becomes as rigid as a plywood floor. You can stand,
walk or even jump on it, the same way you could on
plywood floor. Click here for a video clip of SD330 boat
with an air floor.
If you are planning to inflate and deflate your boat often,
then the air floor is your best solution, because the boat
folds compactly. It's a breeze to assemble and inflatable
boats with an air floor. Just roll out-and inflate.
Assembling a plywood floor is a little bit of hassle, and
plywood floor. Click here for a video clip of SD330 boat
with an air floor.
If you are planning to inflate and deflate your boat often,
then the air floor is your best solution, because the boat
folds compactly. It's a breeze to assemble and inflatable
boats with an air floor. Just roll out-and inflate.
Assembling a plywood floor is a little bit of hassle, and
All of our air floors come with a plywood
support above the keel in the bow
section of the boat. Because of these
patented features, air floors become
very rigid and flat. Flat floors perform
much better then bended air floors of
some competing brands.
Air Floors as rigid as Plywood floors
support above the keel in the bow
section of the boat. Because of these
patented features, air floors become
very rigid and flat. Flat floors perform
much better then bended air floors of
some competing brands.
Air Floors as rigid as Plywood floors
Air Floors
as rigid as
Plywood floors
and therefore we recommend plywood floors only if you keep the boat inflated most of the
time. Another advantage of an air floor is; it's much lighter then a plywood floor. Due to it's
lighter weight, the boat can achieve a higher speed much easier then with a plywood floor.
Plus, an air floor is easy on your knees and absorbs vibrations better then a plywood floor.
Because of these outstanding features, most of our customers prefer boats with air floors.
time. Another advantage of an air floor is; it's much lighter then a plywood floor. Due to it's
lighter weight, the boat can achieve a higher speed much easier then with a plywood floor.
Plus, an air floor is easy on your knees and absorbs vibrations better then a plywood floor.
Because of these outstanding features, most of our customers prefer boats with air floors.
I am new to Inflatable's, help me to choose boat that is right for me.
Max persons capacity displays how many persons can boat transport safely. In general, to
be comfortable on inflatable boat, you will need to deduct 1-2 persons from max boat
capacity. For example, SD260 will be comfortable with 1-2 people, SD290/330 with 2-3
people, SD365/385 with 3-4 people, SD430 will accommodate 4-5 people comfortable.
It is much easier to inflate and deflate boat with high-pressure air deck floor than with
plywood floor or hard floor. It takes more time and skill to assemble plywood floor. In
general, if you are planning to inflate/deflate boat often, then select boat with air floor. If
you will keep boat fully inflated for at least 1-3 weeks then choose boat with plywood or
hard floor. If you keep boat on the trailer or in a dock, then hard floor will not be a
problem for you. If you'll keep the boat in the car trunk and inflate it for only a day of
fishing, then you will find it more easier to deal with air deck floor.
Max persons capacity displays how many persons can boat transport safely. In general, to
be comfortable on inflatable boat, you will need to deduct 1-2 persons from max boat
capacity. For example, SD260 will be comfortable with 1-2 people, SD290/330 with 2-3
people, SD365/385 with 3-4 people, SD430 will accommodate 4-5 people comfortable.
It is much easier to inflate and deflate boat with high-pressure air deck floor than with
plywood floor or hard floor. It takes more time and skill to assemble plywood floor. In
general, if you are planning to inflate/deflate boat often, then select boat with air floor. If
you will keep boat fully inflated for at least 1-3 weeks then choose boat with plywood or
hard floor. If you keep boat on the trailer or in a dock, then hard floor will not be a
problem for you. If you'll keep the boat in the car trunk and inflate it for only a day of
fishing, then you will find it more easier to deal with air deck floor.
How to assemble Plywood or Aluminum Floor?
Please visit Hard Floor Assembly page if you have difficulties installing your plywood floor
into your inflatable boat.
Please visit Hard Floor Assembly page if you have difficulties installing your plywood floor
into your inflatable boat.
What to do if boat get accidentally punctured while on a water?
First of all - do not panic. Inflatable boats has several air chambers, and if one of
chambers get punctured, boat will stay afloat due to the buoyancy of remaining air
chambers.
We suggest that you always carry on board following items - Personal Flotation Device for
each passenger along with a whistle, marine emergency radio to call Coast Guard for help
if necessary, hand pump, piece of duct tape and small bottle of acetone.
If boat get punctured under the water line, there is nothing much you can do except for
pumping air with a hand pump in order to slow down air leak. For quick emergency
repairs in ripped inflatable you can purchase a clam seal.
Punctures in accessible place, inside the boat, can be temporary fixed with a piece of duct
tape. To insure good seal, area around puncture might be cleaned with an acetone
before applying duct tape. After that you can pump air to slow down escaping air, and get
ashore as soon as possible.
First of all - do not panic. Inflatable boats has several air chambers, and if one of
chambers get punctured, boat will stay afloat due to the buoyancy of remaining air
chambers.
We suggest that you always carry on board following items - Personal Flotation Device for
each passenger along with a whistle, marine emergency radio to call Coast Guard for help
if necessary, hand pump, piece of duct tape and small bottle of acetone.
If boat get punctured under the water line, there is nothing much you can do except for
pumping air with a hand pump in order to slow down air leak. For quick emergency
repairs in ripped inflatable you can purchase a clam seal.
Punctures in accessible place, inside the boat, can be temporary fixed with a piece of duct
tape. To insure good seal, area around puncture might be cleaned with an acetone
before applying duct tape. After that you can pump air to slow down escaping air, and get
ashore as soon as possible.
How long should I expect my SATURN boat to last?
That is totally up to you. If you take good care of your boat, it may last 5-10 years. If you
will not take proper care of the boat, it will only last up to its warranty period. However,
abused and mishandled boats are not covered by the warranty.
To extend the lifetime of your boat by taking proper care of it, we are recommending
following book: "INFLATABLE BOATS - Selection, Care, Repair, and Seamanship" by Jim
Trefethen. ISBN number 0-07-065252-X. Available at www.amazon.com, or you may order
it from publisher: The McGraw-Hill Companies, 1-800-262-4729.
It is well known that most common reason for premature boat aging is exposure to the sun
and its damaging UV rays. Fabric discoloration, fading, breakdowns and damages to
varnished plywood can be all attributed to direct sun exposure.
Solution is simple - when boat is not in use cover it or deflate. There are plenty of
Inflatable's rotting under the damaging sun in any local marine or harbor. If possible,
deflate the boat, clean it and store it in a carry bag.
If the boat is constantly dragged behind your sailboat, left year round on a dock, or left
dirty and directly under harmful UV-rays, you can't expect it to last forever. If you will use a
boat cover, or at least will cover boat with a piece of tarp, your SATURN will last much
longer.
Try to keep the boat clean and free of chemical detergents and sun screen lotions that
may discolor the fabric. We highly recommend boat cleaners available at Inland Marine
USA web site.
Please use ONLY cleaning solutions that are approved for PVC fabrics. For example
Inflatable Boat Cleaner from NauticalEase or Cape Ann Inflatable Boat Protector from
Inland Marine. Do not use CLOROX, Windex or any other household cleaners. These
chemicals will make the fabric sticky over time. Sun screen lotions may contain silicon that
will also make PVC fabric sticky. Clean boat tubes from sun screen lotion marks to extend
boat fabric life cycle.
We also recommend very convenient Swipes Wipes, as they contain an excellent cleaning
solution for inflatable boats. These wipes remove any type of dirt, protect against UV-rays
and can make the boat look new again.
That is totally up to you. If you take good care of your boat, it may last 5-10 years. If you
will not take proper care of the boat, it will only last up to its warranty period. However,
abused and mishandled boats are not covered by the warranty.
To extend the lifetime of your boat by taking proper care of it, we are recommending
following book: "INFLATABLE BOATS - Selection, Care, Repair, and Seamanship" by Jim
Trefethen. ISBN number 0-07-065252-X. Available at www.amazon.com, or you may order
it from publisher: The McGraw-Hill Companies, 1-800-262-4729.
It is well known that most common reason for premature boat aging is exposure to the sun
and its damaging UV rays. Fabric discoloration, fading, breakdowns and damages to
varnished plywood can be all attributed to direct sun exposure.
Solution is simple - when boat is not in use cover it or deflate. There are plenty of
Inflatable's rotting under the damaging sun in any local marine or harbor. If possible,
deflate the boat, clean it and store it in a carry bag.
If the boat is constantly dragged behind your sailboat, left year round on a dock, or left
dirty and directly under harmful UV-rays, you can't expect it to last forever. If you will use a
boat cover, or at least will cover boat with a piece of tarp, your SATURN will last much
longer.
Try to keep the boat clean and free of chemical detergents and sun screen lotions that
may discolor the fabric. We highly recommend boat cleaners available at Inland Marine
USA web site.
Please use ONLY cleaning solutions that are approved for PVC fabrics. For example
Inflatable Boat Cleaner from NauticalEase or Cape Ann Inflatable Boat Protector from
Inland Marine. Do not use CLOROX, Windex or any other household cleaners. These
chemicals will make the fabric sticky over time. Sun screen lotions may contain silicon that
will also make PVC fabric sticky. Clean boat tubes from sun screen lotion marks to extend
boat fabric life cycle.
We also recommend very convenient Swipes Wipes, as they contain an excellent cleaning
solution for inflatable boats. These wipes remove any type of dirt, protect against UV-rays
and can make the boat look new again.
What documents are needed to register my boat?
You will need a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) and Bill Of Sale. The MCO and
Bill of Sale are enclosed in a pouch attached to the shipping box along with a Warranty
Registration card. If any of these documents are missing from the pouch, please visit the
Downloads page for replacements. Please fill out all necessary information: purchase
price, your name, address and date of purchase. Don't forget to enter correct HIN
number. Don't bring blank forms to Tag agency. Fill them out first.
In very rare cases, some states may ask you to provide the MSO with a signed and
notarized First Assignment. In general it is absolutely unnecessary. First Assignment is for
you to fill out when you are going to re-sell boat. BoatsToGo represent manufacturers in
the US and a signed first page should be more then enough to register boat. There are
no manufacturers in US who will provide a notarized copy of the MSO. However some
offices are just giving a hard time to customers.
You will need a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) and Bill Of Sale. The MCO and
Bill of Sale are enclosed in a pouch attached to the shipping box along with a Warranty
Registration card. If any of these documents are missing from the pouch, please visit the
Downloads page for replacements. Please fill out all necessary information: purchase
price, your name, address and date of purchase. Don't forget to enter correct HIN
number. Don't bring blank forms to Tag agency. Fill them out first.
In very rare cases, some states may ask you to provide the MSO with a signed and
notarized First Assignment. In general it is absolutely unnecessary. First Assignment is for
you to fill out when you are going to re-sell boat. BoatsToGo represent manufacturers in
the US and a signed first page should be more then enough to register boat. There are
no manufacturers in US who will provide a notarized copy of the MSO. However some
offices are just giving a hard time to customers.
What to do if a hand pump arrives damaged?
Saturn inflatable boats and rafts are of excellent quality and workmanship. However, in
efforts to pass the savings on to you, we are keeping costs as low as possible. Instead of
enclosing a high quality and expensive hand pump, and then passing the cost to you, we
are enclosing good quality generic hand pumps. The hand pump enclosed with a boat is
free and is a complimentary gift to you.
In rare occasions, if FedEx drops the shipping box during handling, the hose of the pump
may get squeezed by the weight of the boat and develop small cracks. The simplest and
fastest solution for cracks in a hose would be to apply duct tape around the hose. This
will make the hand pump fully operational again. However, if you wish to receive a new
pump, please send damaged pump back for replacement. Click here for return address.
If the hose is fine and the pump doesn't provide enough pressure to inflate the boat, then
unscrew the green cup with a T-handle and inspect rubber seal on the plunger. If it's
torn, let us know and we will send you a replacement seal.
Please note that high-performance foot and hand pumps are available from the
Saturn inflatable boats and rafts are of excellent quality and workmanship. However, in
efforts to pass the savings on to you, we are keeping costs as low as possible. Instead of
enclosing a high quality and expensive hand pump, and then passing the cost to you, we
are enclosing good quality generic hand pumps. The hand pump enclosed with a boat is
free and is a complimentary gift to you.
In rare occasions, if FedEx drops the shipping box during handling, the hose of the pump
may get squeezed by the weight of the boat and develop small cracks. The simplest and
fastest solution for cracks in a hose would be to apply duct tape around the hose. This
will make the hand pump fully operational again. However, if you wish to receive a new
pump, please send damaged pump back for replacement. Click here for return address.
If the hose is fine and the pump doesn't provide enough pressure to inflate the boat, then
unscrew the green cup with a T-handle and inspect rubber seal on the plunger. If it's
torn, let us know and we will send you a replacement seal.
Please note that high-performance foot and hand pumps are available from the
Which accessories come standard with the boats and which are optional?
All boats except the SD430 come with 1 plywood seat. All boats come with a hand pump,
repair kit, carry bag, aluminum oars, 4' rope and either an air or plywood floor.
Optional accessories: boat cover, under-seat storage bag with cushion, extra plywood
seat, valve adaptor for electric pump, do-it-yourself plans for building sun-shade canopy.
More accessories coming soon.
All boats except the SD430 come with 1 plywood seat. All boats come with a hand pump,
repair kit, carry bag, aluminum oars, 4' rope and either an air or plywood floor.
Optional accessories: boat cover, under-seat storage bag with cushion, extra plywood
seat, valve adaptor for electric pump, do-it-yourself plans for building sun-shade canopy.
More accessories coming soon.
How to fold my boat for compact storage?
Click here for step-by-step instruction for deflating and folding your boat.
Click here for step-by-step instruction for deflating and folding your boat.
Do I need to install a hydrofoil on the outboard motor?
We recommend that you install a hydrofoil on the outboard motor in order to improve
speed and boat handling. A Hydrofoil will help put the boat on plane much faster and will
help maintain the planning effect at lower speed. See picture below, on a left without a
hydrofoil, on a right with a hydrofoil installed.
We recommend that you install a hydrofoil on the outboard motor in order to improve
speed and boat handling. A Hydrofoil will help put the boat on plane much faster and will
help maintain the planning effect at lower speed. See picture below, on a left without a
hydrofoil, on a right with a hydrofoil installed.
How to protect air floor from accidental punctures or sharp dog claws?
Air floor PVC material has been designed to be strong and puncture-resistant. But if
enough pressure is applied with a sharp object, like a knife or fishing hook for example,
then a puncture may sometime occur. Dog claws, in general, are not sharp enough to
puncture an air floor. But small pieces of sharp broken glass or similar objects may stick
to the insole of shoes while boarding the dinghy and may also cut the surface of air floors
in some cases.
To avoid damage to the high-pressure air floor, and keep it as good as new, you may
purchase a piece of vinyl floor covering in a hardware store, or just use regular carpeting.
Cut vinyl or carpet to fit the inside of the boat and over the floor. Use paper patterns first,
to get a perfect fit. Then use this paper pattern to cut the new flooring.
Applying vinyl or carpet covering will make inflatable air floors virtually indestructible. Floor
vinyl covering or carpet is flexible and may be rolled up for storage when boat is deflated.
Air floor PVC material has been designed to be strong and puncture-resistant. But if
enough pressure is applied with a sharp object, like a knife or fishing hook for example,
then a puncture may sometime occur. Dog claws, in general, are not sharp enough to
puncture an air floor. But small pieces of sharp broken glass or similar objects may stick
to the insole of shoes while boarding the dinghy and may also cut the surface of air floors
in some cases.
To avoid damage to the high-pressure air floor, and keep it as good as new, you may
purchase a piece of vinyl floor covering in a hardware store, or just use regular carpeting.
Cut vinyl or carpet to fit the inside of the boat and over the floor. Use paper patterns first,
to get a perfect fit. Then use this paper pattern to cut the new flooring.
Applying vinyl or carpet covering will make inflatable air floors virtually indestructible. Floor
vinyl covering or carpet is flexible and may be rolled up for storage when boat is deflated.
Towing bridle is necessary in order to properly tow inflatable boat. Towing bridles are
available at many marine retail stores and on-line. Do not tow inflatable boat by
connecting rope to the central D-ring with integrated handle. Use towing D-rings on both
sides of dinghy bow.
The most common mistake made when towing is improper use of the towing bridle. Many
boaters knot the tow bridle into a loop at the center, and attach a towing line there. This is
wrong. The towing line should not be fixed to the bridle, but instead should end in a small
bowline loop, through which the bridle passes. This allows the towline to slew back and
forth in the bridle, and provides for tension in both sides of the bridle. Not rigging the
towline this way is the most common cause of failure of the pad eyes on the dingy to which
side to side, shifting the strain on the bridle from one side to the other. If the towline is
rigidly fixed to the center of the bridle, one pad eye will be momentarily required to sustain
the entire tow load. If the towline can shift its position in the bridle, both sides of the bridle
will remain in tension, and the load will be distributed to both pad eyes on the dingy.
Many cruising sailors have small outboard motors for use with their inflatable's, which
creates a dilemma when it's time to tow: should the motor be left on the dingy while
towing? The tendency to do this is proportional to the weight of the outboard and the
difficulty in removing it and storing it on the boat. There are a number of reasons for
recommending against towing with the outboard on the dingy.
First, there is the hazard to the outboard. In large seas the dingy might flip over,
submerging the motor. It's also possible that violent motion in a seaway could cause the
motor to fall off the dingy transom. These things always seem to happen when you'd least
like them, usually when a ten-foot sea is running!
Another consideration is the additional tow load the extra weight of the motor will create. A
completely empty inflatable is usually a very light craft and hence a very light tow load.
When you add 70 pounds or more of motor and gas tank, you could very well be doubling
the tow load from a small inflatable.
The problem most likely to occur in towing the dingy is shipping water aboard. It can
quickly lead to failure of the bridle pad eyes, especially in those instances where the load
is not being equalized. Even just six inches of water in an inflatable can weight over a
hundreds pounds.
How can I prevent the outboard motor from damaging the transom while transporting my
boat on a trailer?
While transporting inflatable boats on a trailer with the outboard motor in a raised
position, heavy outboard engines may provide extra strain on a boat transom. When a
moving trailer hits a bump or uneven pavement, heavy motors are capable of damaging
the transom. You can install a pole support from the end of the trailer to the end of the
outboard motor in order to provide extra support for the motor weight. These supports are
available at places that sell trailers for boats and/or on-line.
boat on a trailer?
While transporting inflatable boats on a trailer with the outboard motor in a raised
position, heavy outboard engines may provide extra strain on a boat transom. When a
moving trailer hits a bump or uneven pavement, heavy motors are capable of damaging
the transom. You can install a pole support from the end of the trailer to the end of the
outboard motor in order to provide extra support for the motor weight. These supports are
available at places that sell trailers for boats and/or on-line.
Can I inflate my boat using an electric pump only?
No. You will need to use a hand pump to provide proper air pressure to the tubes.
Electric pumps will not provide enough air pressure and your boat will not operate to it's
full performance. You may quickly inflate all air compartments with an electric pump, up to
the point where no more air can be electrically pumped inside, or about 90%. Then, you
will need to use a hand pump until tubes, keel and bow are hard to the touch.
No. You will need to use a hand pump to provide proper air pressure to the tubes.
Electric pumps will not provide enough air pressure and your boat will not operate to it's
full performance. You may quickly inflate all air compartments with an electric pump, up to
the point where no more air can be electrically pumped inside, or about 90%. Then, you
will need to use a hand pump until tubes, keel and bow are hard to the touch.
How SATURN are our boats different from other brands?
Saturn Inflatable boats are made of the same quality materials as famous expensive brand
name inflatable boats. The workmanship is exactly the same or even better quality then
most overpriced brand names that you can buy in retail marine stores. SATURN Our
boats are made by major manufacturer of inflatable boats in Korea.
Some of Saturn boats strong points:
Very clean, hand-made seams. Glue does not stick out from seams.
Double layer fabric at the bottom of all tubes .
The Extra thick 1100 Dtex fabric with polyester support is a much thicker fabric than some
other famous brands use.
Flat and rigid air floor. Not bended in front like on most other brands.
Safety valve that prevents over-inflation.
There are several reasons why our prices are the lowest in the US:
We import directly from the manufacturer bypassing middleman.
By conducting our business on-line we avoid expenses that retail stores are passing on to
their customers.
We do not invest as heavily in marketing as other famous brands do.
We don't have to maintain a large network of dealers and retail stores.
Our 2 year warranty doesn't force you to pay for extra years that otherwise are just built-in
into retail price.
Many of our customers are boaters that have experience with other brand names such as
Zodiac, Avon, West Marine, etc. However, after purchasing Saturn boats, we hear many
comments stating that our boats are the same or better quality as these other major
brands. The most common remark is, " Saturn boats are much better quality then
expected" and 50% of our sales come from the referrals of happy owners of Saturn
inflatable boats.
Saturn Inflatable boats are made of the same quality materials as famous expensive brand
name inflatable boats. The workmanship is exactly the same or even better quality then
most overpriced brand names that you can buy in retail marine stores. SATURN Our
boats are made by major manufacturer of inflatable boats in Korea.
Some of Saturn boats strong points:
Very clean, hand-made seams. Glue does not stick out from seams.
Double layer fabric at the bottom of all tubes .
The Extra thick 1100 Dtex fabric with polyester support is a much thicker fabric than some
other famous brands use.
Flat and rigid air floor. Not bended in front like on most other brands.
Safety valve that prevents over-inflation.
There are several reasons why our prices are the lowest in the US:
We import directly from the manufacturer bypassing middleman.
By conducting our business on-line we avoid expenses that retail stores are passing on to
their customers.
We do not invest as heavily in marketing as other famous brands do.
We don't have to maintain a large network of dealers and retail stores.
Our 2 year warranty doesn't force you to pay for extra years that otherwise are just built-in
into retail price.
Many of our customers are boaters that have experience with other brand names such as
Zodiac, Avon, West Marine, etc. However, after purchasing Saturn boats, we hear many
comments stating that our boats are the same or better quality as these other major
brands. The most common remark is, " Saturn boats are much better quality then
expected" and 50% of our sales come from the referrals of happy owners of Saturn
inflatable boats.
What type of outboard motor can be installed on Saturn inflatable boats?
Short shaft 15" outboard motors are recommended to be installed on the 15" transom of
Saturn inflatable boats. The lighter the outboard motor - the better. Either 2-stroke or
4-stroke engines may be installed on a boat transom, however 2-stroke engines are
generally much lighter then 4-stroke outboard motors.
Long shaft 20" motors are not recommended, but may also be installed if a short shaft
o/b is unavailable. However a long shaft o/b may create extra underwater drag. Long shaft
o/b may be raised a few inches with help of a 2-3" wooden bar placed on a top of boat
transom.
Max O/B motor, as per technical specifications for Saturn inflatable boats, means that this
particular HP power output motor will bring the boat on plane when the maximum persons
capacity is reached. For example, the SD365 can take up to a 30 HP outboard motor, but
a 9HP or 15 HP motor will move this boat very nicely with 2-3 people on board. However,
to put the boat on plane with a full load of 5 people and gear, a 30 HP motor may be
required.
Short shaft 15" outboard motors are recommended to be installed on the 15" transom of
Saturn inflatable boats. The lighter the outboard motor - the better. Either 2-stroke or
4-stroke engines may be installed on a boat transom, however 2-stroke engines are
generally much lighter then 4-stroke outboard motors.
Long shaft 20" motors are not recommended, but may also be installed if a short shaft
o/b is unavailable. However a long shaft o/b may create extra underwater drag. Long shaft
o/b may be raised a few inches with help of a 2-3" wooden bar placed on a top of boat
transom.
Max O/B motor, as per technical specifications for Saturn inflatable boats, means that this
particular HP power output motor will bring the boat on plane when the maximum persons
capacity is reached. For example, the SD365 can take up to a 30 HP outboard motor, but
a 9HP or 15 HP motor will move this boat very nicely with 2-3 people on board. However,
to put the boat on plane with a full load of 5 people and gear, a 30 HP motor may be
required.
Are Saturn inflatable boats certified or approved?
Manufacturer Identification Codes (MIC) were assigned by the US Coast Guard on May
6, 2003. Our boats have been CE, ISO and Germanischer Lloyd Certified in Europe, Asia
and Australia. The NMMA certification is expensive and optional, therefore we did not
applied for such a certification in order to keep our expenses/prices as low as possible.
Manufacturer Identification Codes (MIC) were assigned by the US Coast Guard on May
6, 2003. Our boats have been CE, ISO and Germanischer Lloyd Certified in Europe, Asia
and Australia. The NMMA certification is expensive and optional, therefore we did not
applied for such a certification in order to keep our expenses/prices as low as possible.
Air starts escaping from the valve immediately after I remove air pump. My boat starts
loosing air after few hours. What is wrong?
loosing air after few hours. What is wrong?
The valve has a special pushpin inside. This pushpin has two positions. Up and down
positions. When it is pressed in the down position, air will escape. If you turn the pushpin
in any direction it will pop up. This will lock air inside and prevent it from escaping through
the valve. Before inserting the air pump tube into the valve, please make sure that the
pushpin is in the upper, popped up position. Once the pin is in the "popped up" position,
insert the air pump tube into the valve and inflate the boat until it becomes hard. Once
you remove the air pump, air will seal the valve and will no longer escape. If you would like
to deflate the boat later on, press down on the pushpin and turn it in any direction until it
stays in the pressed down position. Air will immediately escape from the tubes thru the
valve.
positions. When it is pressed in the down position, air will escape. If you turn the pushpin
in any direction it will pop up. This will lock air inside and prevent it from escaping through
the valve. Before inserting the air pump tube into the valve, please make sure that the
pushpin is in the upper, popped up position. Once the pin is in the "popped up" position,
insert the air pump tube into the valve and inflate the boat until it becomes hard. Once
you remove the air pump, air will seal the valve and will no longer escape. If you would like
to deflate the boat later on, press down on the pushpin and turn it in any direction until it
stays in the pressed down position. Air will immediately escape from the tubes thru the
valve.
How do I replace the air valve?
Please go to the valve assembly page to see how a damaged valve can be replaced.
Please go to the valve assembly page to see how a damaged valve can be replaced.
What does maximum motor capacity mean? What motor rating do I need to put the boat
on plane?
Max O/B Motor means: maximum power outboard motor that can be safely used to plane
a boat loaded to the maximum capacity on normal water surface conditions. Please
exercise common sense and caution when using maximum motor capacities. Do not jump
from wave to wave as new 4-stroke motors are much heavier then 2-strokes and provide
extra strain on a transom.
Under normal circumstances, with half of a maximum persons/load capacity, or about
50% of the maximum O/B power rating may be necessary to put boat on plane. For
example: SD365 rated for up to 30 HP outboard motor. But 15 HP with hydrofoil installed
would be enough to put 12' boat on plane with 1-4 people and light load.
The lighter the motor, the faster boat will run. 2-stroke engines, while still possible to find,
are much lighter then 4-stroke, and will provide same power at less strain to the transom.
on plane?
Max O/B Motor means: maximum power outboard motor that can be safely used to plane
a boat loaded to the maximum capacity on normal water surface conditions. Please
exercise common sense and caution when using maximum motor capacities. Do not jump
from wave to wave as new 4-stroke motors are much heavier then 2-strokes and provide
extra strain on a transom.
Under normal circumstances, with half of a maximum persons/load capacity, or about
50% of the maximum O/B power rating may be necessary to put boat on plane. For
example: SD365 rated for up to 30 HP outboard motor. But 15 HP with hydrofoil installed
would be enough to put 12' boat on plane with 1-4 people and light load.
The lighter the motor, the faster boat will run. 2-stroke engines, while still possible to find,
are much lighter then 4-stroke, and will provide same power at less strain to the transom.
What are the steps to correctly assemble my inflatable boat?
These are the steps you should follow to correctly inflate the boat:
These are the steps you should follow to correctly inflate the boat:
- Inflate all tubes to approximately 75% full.
- Place deflated air floor inside the boat. Grey plywood board should be facing the
keel. Make sure that valve of the keel is accessible through the hole in air floor.
You will need it later to inflate keel through this hole. - Place both ends of plywood boards under left and right sides of tubes.
- Stretch air floor along the boat bottom, so it covers it from nose to transom. The
rear end of the air floor should be touching transom. - Inflate the air floor until it's hard. You will know that the floor is fully inflated when
air pressure starts pushing the air pump handle up. - Inflate all tubes 100% until hard to touch.
- Inflate keel through the hole in air floor.
What is the working pressure of the SATURN boat in terms of PSI? Do I need special
pressure Gauge?
It is not necessary to have an air pressure gauge to inflate Saturn boats. The boat tubes
are equipped with Safety valves that will prevent over-inflation. In general, when you feel
that boat tubes/floor are hard to the touch, and it becomes difficult to pump any more air
in, that is means that boat is ready.
pressure Gauge?
- Max. Air pressure tubes: 0,25 bar
- Max. Air pressure keel: 0,40 bar
- Max. Air pressure floor: 0,70 bar
- Conversion factors:
- 1 psi = 0.06895 bar
- 1 bar = 14.50326 psi
It is not necessary to have an air pressure gauge to inflate Saturn boats. The boat tubes
are equipped with Safety valves that will prevent over-inflation. In general, when you feel
that boat tubes/floor are hard to the touch, and it becomes difficult to pump any more air
in, that is means that boat is ready.
How do I tie up dinghy to the dock?
If you are planning to keep your inflated dinghy in
water, by the dock for extended periods of time, here
is simple scheme that you may follow. Gray PVC 1/2"
electric pipes can be used as a pole supports. PVC
pipes are available in local hardware stores and
Home Depot. They provide enough tension to keep
the dingy from rubbing against the dock. However
keep in mind that prolonged exposure to open water
will cause extensive algae and barnacle growth on a
bottom part of the boat.
If you are planning to keep your inflated dinghy in
water, by the dock for extended periods of time, here
is simple scheme that you may follow. Gray PVC 1/2"
electric pipes can be used as a pole supports. PVC
pipes are available in local hardware stores and
Home Depot. They provide enough tension to keep
the dingy from rubbing against the dock. However
keep in mind that prolonged exposure to open water
will cause extensive algae and barnacle growth on a
bottom part of the boat.
Where can I get extra seats for my boat?
Please go to to order extra seats for SD290/SD330 or SD365/SD385 boats.
Please go to to order extra seats for SD290/SD330 or SD365/SD385 boats.
Where do I get a Bill of Sale and Manufacturer Certificate Of Origin in order to register
my boat?
If the Bill Of Sale is missing from shipping pouch or you need replacement documents,
you can call or e-mail the sailing-master@ancientcityboatsales.com and one will be
provided
my boat?
If the Bill Of Sale is missing from shipping pouch or you need replacement documents,
you can call or e-mail the sailing-master@ancientcityboatsales.com and one will be
provided
The keel tube under the floor is skewed to one side. How do I correct that?
Please follow these steps to correct position of the keel.
1. Deflate boat tubes.
2. Deflate and remove air floor.
3. Inflate keel and then deflate it while spreading it out evenly on both sides.
4. Insert air floor back and inflate boat tubes 100%.
5. Inflate air floor, then inflate keel.
Please follow these steps to correct position of the keel.
1. Deflate boat tubes.
2. Deflate and remove air floor.
3. Inflate keel and then deflate it while spreading it out evenly on both sides.
4. Insert air floor back and inflate boat tubes 100%.
5. Inflate air floor, then inflate keel.
What kind of valves do Saturn boats and rafts have?
Saturn boats and rafts use a Halkey-Roberts flat valve design by Naru.
Saturn boats and rafts use a Halkey-Roberts flat valve design by Naru.
I can't put boat on a plane due to cavitations problems. The outboard creates a lot of
noise and bubbles but the prop gets out of the water and the boat stops. Why?
There are two reasons for cavitations problems. First, is an incorrect or damaged prop.
Second, and most likely, is that the boat not fully or properly inflated. If the boat's
chambers are not fully inflated, this will cause water disturbance under the boat tubes,
and cavitations as a result. Please make sure that the boat is fully inflated using hand or
foot pump. Do not use only electric pumps or compressors to inflate boat. Use a
hand/foot air pump to pump up all boat chambers until they are hard to the touch. In
general, once you feel that it becomes difficult to pump up any more air with a hand/foot
pump, it means that the chamber is full. You can lightly knock with you hand on a
compartment and it should feel hard, not soft.
Most recent customer response from customer who fixed cavitation by properly inflating
his SD365 boat: Thanks, I did what you said and went out in the ocean today and my
boat ran great, really moves with this honda 20hp outboard.
More Info about Cavitation due to the outboard propeller:
Ventilation occurs when surface air or exhaust gases are drawn into the propeller
blades. The load on the propeller is reduced by the mixing of air or exhaust into the
water steam causing over revving.
Anti-ventilation Plate: Large plate cast into gear case housing directly above propeller.
Helps reduce surface air from being pulled into blades.
Cavitation: The aeration (bubbling) and boiling effect of water caused by creation of a
low pressure area. Generally caused by a solid shape (propeller blade) passing through
the water, in such a position and speed, that a low pressure area is formed due to the
inability to move through the water in nonresistant manner. An example is, a propeller
blade that has a rough edge would not cut efficiently through the water, thus creating a
low pressure area. If the pressure drops below the vapor pressure, a cavitation bubble
will form in that region. These bubbles will collapse when they reach the higher pressure
region of the blade. This causes a rapid change in pressure and can result in physical
erosion. You may notice burns (erosion) at some area on the face of the blade.
noise and bubbles but the prop gets out of the water and the boat stops. Why?
There are two reasons for cavitations problems. First, is an incorrect or damaged prop.
Second, and most likely, is that the boat not fully or properly inflated. If the boat's
chambers are not fully inflated, this will cause water disturbance under the boat tubes,
and cavitations as a result. Please make sure that the boat is fully inflated using hand or
foot pump. Do not use only electric pumps or compressors to inflate boat. Use a
hand/foot air pump to pump up all boat chambers until they are hard to the touch. In
general, once you feel that it becomes difficult to pump up any more air with a hand/foot
pump, it means that the chamber is full. You can lightly knock with you hand on a
compartment and it should feel hard, not soft.
Most recent customer response from customer who fixed cavitation by properly inflating
his SD365 boat: Thanks, I did what you said and went out in the ocean today and my
boat ran great, really moves with this honda 20hp outboard.
More Info about Cavitation due to the outboard propeller:
Ventilation occurs when surface air or exhaust gases are drawn into the propeller
blades. The load on the propeller is reduced by the mixing of air or exhaust into the
water steam causing over revving.
Anti-ventilation Plate: Large plate cast into gear case housing directly above propeller.
Helps reduce surface air from being pulled into blades.
Cavitation: The aeration (bubbling) and boiling effect of water caused by creation of a
low pressure area. Generally caused by a solid shape (propeller blade) passing through
the water, in such a position and speed, that a low pressure area is formed due to the
inability to move through the water in nonresistant manner. An example is, a propeller
blade that has a rough edge would not cut efficiently through the water, thus creating a
low pressure area. If the pressure drops below the vapor pressure, a cavitation bubble
will form in that region. These bubbles will collapse when they reach the higher pressure
region of the blade. This causes a rapid change in pressure and can result in physical
erosion. You may notice burns (erosion) at some area on the face of the blade.
How can you avoid slipping in the boat seat while the boat is in motion?
You can apply a non-slip stair tread tape which is manufactured by 3M. It is very durable
and is water resistant as well. It is available from most hardware stores. It is made to be
used on stairs but also works well on the boat seats to keep you from slipping into turns
from a boat in motion. It makes the seats non-slip!
You can apply a non-slip stair tread tape which is manufactured by 3M. It is very durable
and is water resistant as well. It is available from most hardware stores. It is made to be
used on stairs but also works well on the boat seats to keep you from slipping into turns
from a boat in motion. It makes the seats non-slip!
How do I put my Inflatable Boat Registration Numbers on my boat?
There is a company that specializes in Inflatable Boat Numbering and Lettering.
Check-out http://www.boatnumberplate.com. They Manufacture registration numbers
and or name plates that can be glued onto your boat. They guarantee them legal in
every state and for the US Coast Guard.
There is a company that specializes in Inflatable Boat Numbering and Lettering.
Check-out http://www.boatnumberplate.com. They Manufacture registration numbers
and or name plates that can be glued onto your boat. They guarantee them legal in
every state and for the US Coast Guard.
I am a heavy person, over 250 lbs. How can I minimize pressure on the plywood seat
Put a regular cooler between the seat and air or plywood floor to create extra support
for the plywood seat. The cooler has to fit under the seat. There are IGLOO or
Coleman coolers available in department stores that are just the right size.
Coolers can also serve as a dry storage containers. When a boat is jumping on waves,
coolers will prevent excessive pressure on strips that hold the plywood seat attached to
the tubes. For example, Coleman 9 Qt. Excursion, Red cooler, dimensions 11.25" x
12.66" x 9.75", Vendor Part Number: 6209A703G, around $15.
Put a regular cooler between the seat and air or plywood floor to create extra support
for the plywood seat. The cooler has to fit under the seat. There are IGLOO or
Coleman coolers available in department stores that are just the right size.
Coolers can also serve as a dry storage containers. When a boat is jumping on waves,
coolers will prevent excessive pressure on strips that hold the plywood seat attached to
the tubes. For example, Coleman 9 Qt. Excursion, Red cooler, dimensions 11.25" x
12.66" x 9.75", Vendor Part Number: 6209A703G, around $15.