Inflatable Boat Valves

Inflatable boat valves are almost important as the boat itself.  The dynamics of inflatable boats have made tremendous strides since they were first introduced to the market. The most important issue with them is that they should remain inflated while in use. This over-rides all other considerations. Manufacturers are well aware of this, and as a result have introduced various valves which can be relied upon to keep the boat inflated even with the worst water scenario.

Please see links at the bottom for sites from which to buy valves.

One of the simplest and cheapest types of inflatable boat valves (and which may perhaps still exist on the lowest priced models of inflatable boats) is the simple blow up valve, a rubber/plastic funnel shape with a cap on top. Once the boat is inflated, the funnel is pushed down and becomes recessed. There are two basic problems with this type of valve. The first is that it is difficult to use in the inflation process, the second is that it is equally difficult to put the cap on without air escaping.

It is an important point to note. When choosing an inflatable boat – give priority consideration to the type of valves it has. Make sure they will do the job they are supposed to do.

A few of the most common types of inflatable boat valves found today are:

Boston Valves. These are one-way valves which have two parts. The top part is used to inflate the boat, letting the air in but not letting it out. They are popular because they have proved themselves to be effective. They can be inflated with a pump like Campingaz Dual Action Hand Pump, or with a bit of innovation, a vacuum cleaner. An inflatable boat withboston valves makes your life with a small boat a lot easier.
This link goes to Seafit Boston Valve and adapter.

Halkey Roberts Valves: This company specializes in various types of valves. The one in use with inflatables is a twist type valve with mechanical sealing. A double seal protects the fill and deflate process. The valve is made from acetal and aluminum.
Halkey Roberts boot valve (Try the link though the item may not be currently available)
Halkey Roberts Yellow Stem Raft Valve Try the link though the item may not be currently available.
NRS Halkey Roberts Valve Cap
NRS Halkey Roberts Valve Adapter
NRS Halkey Roberts Valve Wrench
West Marine Halkey Roberts Valve for Inflatable Boats.
Halkey Roberts Wrench/Relief Valve/PR valve boot takes you to a page on NRS website which sells these valves.

Push Push Valves: These always retain their shape because they do not absorb humidity. Therefore they do not leak. Valves made from nylon can absorb humidity and therefore leakage is posssible as there shape may become distorted. The Push Push valve is round and lies flat. It has a double silicone seal. Currrent AB and Caribe inflatables use these.

Leafield Valves: This company is a world leader in the design, development and manufacture of air valves for the industries using them including inflatable boats. They can be recognised by their number description like AC, B7 C7, A10 etc. The wrench to fit them is a separate purchase usually. Click here for the C7 wrench and here for the B7. The A6 is the floor valve.
B7,A7,A6,C7 valves and adapters takes you to NRS website where you will find relevant valves and adapters including Leafield/Military Valve Adapter

Achilles Valves: Made for and by the manufacturer of Achilles Boats – riken valve works for this boat too.

Riken Valves: Made for and by manufacturer of Riken boats though a riken valve also works for an achilles boat
NRS has a replacement Riken/Achilles Military valve

Avon Valves: Link is to the C7 Avon boat valve. Also made for and by the manufacturer of Avon Boats.

Hyside Valves: Made for Hyside Inflatables.

Zodiac Valves: Made for Zodiac Inflatables.
Zodiac regulator valve
Zodiac back-up valve

Military valves often used in older whitewater rafts. the H3 valve is a Military valve. Advanced Elements use a similar type of spring valve on their inflatables but these valves are not replaceable. One has to replace the entire tube.
NRSsite has Military valves, boots and screws

This valve is for live wells or bait drains – fishermen will know where they go.

Sevylor Valves need to be ordered from your nearest supplier to be replaced. This is assuming they are not boston valves. Instructions on how to replace them is on their website or can be found in the owner’s manual. (Information from Sevylor Repair UK)

Summit Valves
Outcast Sporting Summit 2 valve adapter
NRS site has adapters, wrench, caps and valves

The other point to note about the way inflatables boats are built today is the number of chambers (air compartments) they contain. This makes sense for if one fails for any reason, there remain more to keep the boat afloat.

Sevylor do a spare part and repair kit which comes with boston valves.

All of the above cover inflatable boat valves