How to install Kudzu bow/stern flotation?

[rebeccawheeler]

Hi folks,

I have a Ravenwood by Kudzu, and have purchased the custom flotation bags. I apologize for my total newbie status, but I need directions on how to install/insert the float bags. These seem clearly to have the hose toward the cockpit, as that's the broadest part of the bag.

But how do you get these into place? I don't see how to get them to go into the frame, to fill the space. They just crumble up if no air in them, and if some air, then they seem stuck. Help?

thx,

Rebecca

[CapecodJohn]

I had a 4 foot dowel that i put a wire hook on the end

I was able to slide the bags to the ends with little effort

they stay in place once filled with air

[nub]

I found it worked easiest for me to have someone else hold the kayak standing upright on the bow, then while standing on a short ladder, drop the float bag into the bow space.  Next blow in a little air with a battery powered pump, position the bag where you want it and then fill the bag like you want it.  Flip ends and repeat for the stern.  If you fill the bags too full, the kayak skin will bulge outward.

[Action Tiger]

I'm sure this won't help now, but in the future...

Since my second SOF kayak, I have always put a pair of block or bee blocks at either end of the boat, and just behind my back and ahead of my feet, in any boats I plan to bag. The blocks are strung with a flag halyard type set up, a light line tied in a loop. Put a bowline in the bight somewhere along the loop to hook your bag end to.

Now you can run your bags in and out like an ensign, or a pair of freshly laundered socks.

[Rich D]

I don't know what material your bags are made from but on bags I made from some vinyl coated polyester, as per Tom Yost's plans, I glued a small pocket at the narrow ends with the opening facing towards the cockpit. I can insert my greenland paddle into the pocket and push it into place, then withdraw the paddle. They could also be pushed into place with the shaft of a take-apart paddle or a long stick. Maybe a piece of material could be glued in place on yours.