OWNER’S MANUAL FOR
STEARNS®
INFLATABLE KAYAK
YUKATAT™ (B523)
IMPORTANT!
BEFORE PROCEEDING
READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY
(CONTAINS IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION,
AS WELL AS CARE AND MAINTENANCE)
Yukatat™
(B523)
Stearns® Inc.
St. Cloud, Minnesota 56302 U.S.A.
Phone: (320) 252-1642 or 1-800-697-5801
Fax: (320) 252-4425
OWNER’S MANUAL FOR STEARNS® INFLATABLE KAYAK
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2. Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2.1 Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
3. Boating Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
3.1 Boating Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
3.1.1 Boating Safety Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
3.1.2 Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
3.1.3 Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
3.2 Responsibilities of the Operator(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
3.3 Restricted Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
4. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
4.1 Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
4.2 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
5. Preparing Your Stearns® Inflatable Kayak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
5.1 Quick Start to Inflating Your Boat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
5.2 Knowing Your Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
5.3 Make Sure Bladders Are Aligned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
5.4 Over Inflation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
6. Underway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
6.1 Before You Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
6.2 Transporting, Carrying, and Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
6.3 Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
6.4 Folding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
7. Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
7.1 Repairing Small Punctures and Cuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
7.2 Repairing Pinholes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
7.3 Seam Openings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
8. Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
9. Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Stearns® Warranty Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
1
Declaration of Conformity
(according to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and EN 45014)
Manufacturer’s Name: Stearns Inc.
Manufacturer’s Address: P. O. Box 1498
St. Cloud, MN 56302
declares, that the product:
Product Name: Yukatat™
Model Number(s): B523
to which this declaration relates, meets the essential health and
safety requirements and is in conformity with the relevant EU Directives
listed below:
General Product Safety Directive
using the relevant section of the following EU standards and other
normative documents:
EN / ISO 6185-1 : 2002
ABYC H28-76
Date: 01/09/04
Paul Ebnet, President
This product complies with European directives for recreational vessels
as published by the International Organization for Standardization
(ISO).
2
1. INTRODUCTION
This manual has been compiled to help you operate your craft with
safety and pleasure. It contains details of the craft, the equipment
supplied or fitted, its systems, and information on its operation and
maintenance. Please read it carefully, and familiarize yourself with the
craft before using it.
If this is your first craft, or you are changing to a type of craft you are
not familiar with, for your own comfort and safety, please ensure that
you obtain handling and operating experience before assuming
command of the craft.
PLEASE KEEP THIS MANUAL IN A SECURE PLACE, AND PASS IT
ON TO THE NEW OWNER IF YOU SELL THE CRAFT.
2. WARRANTY
Complete and return the Warranty Registration form found on the back
page of this Owner’s Manual.
2.1 MODIFICATIONS
Because of the possibility of interference with the factory design
integrity of the kayak, owner modifications to the kayak are not
recommended.
Unauthorized modifications to the kayak could compromise safety,
design integrity or warranty coverage.
3
3. BOATING SAFETY
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to
potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages
that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury or substantial property
damage.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury or property damage.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in property damage.
Used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially
hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property
damage.
NOTICE
Indicates installation, operation or maintenance information which
is important but not hazard-related.
The precautions listed in this manual and on the craft are not
all-inclusive. If a procedure, method, tool or part is not specifically
recommended, you must satisfy yourself that it is safe for you and
others, and that the craft will not be damaged or made unsafe as a
result of your decision. REMEMBER - always use common sense when
paddling YOUR KAYAK!
4
3.1 Boating Regulations
The U.S. Coast Guard is the authority of the waterways; they are there
to help the boating public. State boating regulations are enforced by
local authorities. You are subject to marine traffic laws and “Rules of the
Road” for both federal and state waterways; you must stop if signaled
to do so by enforcement officers.
There are many pamphlets, prepared by the Coast Guard, available to
you. These pamphlets explain “Rules of the Road,” signal lights, buoys,
safety equipment, international and inland regulations and much more
than is presented in this manual. For more information contact your
local U.S. Coast Guard Unit or call the Coast Guard Customer Info line
at 1-800-368-5647.
3.1.1 Boat Safety Labels
Your kayak is affixed with various safety labels at the time of
manufacture. These labels appear at specific locations on the craft
where safety is of particular concern. Safety labels must remain legible
and should not be removed. If you suspect a label is missing or one
becomes damaged, contact STEARNS® at 320-252-1642 or
1-800-697-5801.
3.1.2 Registration
The U.S. Coast Guard requires that all power boats operated on the
navigable waters of the United States must be registered in the state of
main use; also, many States require registration in that state whenever
boating on waters within their state boundary. Always contact your state
boating authorities (and neighboring states) for registration information
on boats.
Once you have been issued a number, it is best to affix it on the boat
by printing it on the material with a permanent ink marker.
3.1.3 Education
This manual is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects
of boat operation. We strongly recommend that all operators of this
boat seek additional training on boat handling and safety, and provide
safety training for all passengers.
5
3.2 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE OPERATOR(S)
IMPORTANT
Users of this product agree by their use to accept the
inherent risks involved in this water sports activity and
agree to follow all instructions, DANGERS, CAUTIONS, and
WARNINGS carefully before using their STEARNS® kayaks.
●
READ OWNER’S MANUAL: Improper Use May Cause Injury or
Death. Pay close attention to items marked “DANGER,”
“WARNING,” “CAUTION” or “NEVER.”
●
Use the kayak in a SAFE and SOBER manner, taking all
reasonable precautions.
●
Each passenger MUST Wear an approved personal flotation
device (PFD). All safety equipment & PFDs must be in good
condition and suitable for your kayak and passenger use.
●
THIS KAYAK IS NOT A PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE.
●
Follow all inflation and care instructions.
●
BE AWARE of local boating regulations and follow them.
●
BE AWARE of your environment, water currents, tides,
weather, traffic and other potential hazards in the water and
surroundings.
●
DO NOT use this kayak UNDER the INFLUENCE of DRUGS or
ALCOHOL.
●
DO NOT use this kayak if you suspect a tear or hole. IT MAY
BE UNSAFE.
●
USE CAUTION when entering or exiting the kayak. Keep your
weight centered and distribute the weight of the gear and
passengers evenly.
●
DO NOT allow children to use this kayak without the
supervision of an adult or someone who is experienced in its
safe use.
●
DO NOT tow this kayak.
●
Seek shelter from open water if there is threat of lightning.
3.3 RESTRICTED AREAS
Before kayaking, check with Local, State and Federal authorities to
identify restricted areas. Because of the threat of terrorism, the U.S.
Coast Guard has and will continue to implement strict limits on
watercraft near U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships and other potential
targets.
6
4. SPECIFICATIONS
Yukatat™ (B523)
Dimensions:
Length - 10’ 4” (315 cm)
Beam - 33” (84 cm)
Dry Weight:
31 (14 kg)
1 person
Max. Persons Capacity:
Max. Persons & Gear Capacity:
285 lbs (129 kg)
Recommended Pressure:
Main chambers:
Floor chamber:
1.75 psi (0.12 bar)
1.0 psi (0.07 bar)
4.1 CAPACITY
The person/load capacity is determined by the availability of proper
seating on the kayak. Acceptable seating determines the number of
passengers, not the overall load capacity.
Yukatat™ capacity label
MAXIMUM CAPACITIES
PERSONS OR
LBS.
1
225
285 LBS PERSONS, GEAR
PRESSURE = 1.75 psi (main chambers)
MANUFACTURER: STEARNS INC., ST. CLOUD, MN, USA 56302
MODEL: B523 YUKATAT
-
THIS BOAT COMPLIES WITH NMMA STANDARDS, IN EFFECT
ON THE DATE OF CERTIFICATION.
NATIONAL MARINE MANUFACTURERS ASSN.
COMPLIANCE
WITH
ISO 6185-1
+
=
81 kg
1
TYPE III,
A
=
0,12 bar (main chambers)
0123
! WARNING
Do not exceed the certified maximum capacities under any
circumstances. Overloading will reduce freeboard and increase
the likelihood of swamping, especially in heavy seas. Overloading
causes handling to become sluggish, making it difficult to react
quickly.
7
4.2 FEATURES
Yukatat™
4
7
11
6
12
9
5
5
2
2
10
10
8
1
8
3
11
4
1
1. Main chamber valves
2. Carrying / grab handles
3. Floor valve
7. Chamber access zippers
8. Bow and stern access zippers
9. Mesh pocket
4. Knuckle abrasion guards
5. Tie down cords
6. Mesh pocket
10. Bow and stern rigid stems
11. Spray deck chambers
12. Seat
5. PREPARING YOUR STEARNS® INFLATABLE KAYAK
The STEARNS® Inflatable Kayak is designed for recreational use and
can be used in a number of settings. Every usage has its own set of
required skill levels and dangers. Be sure you are prepared for each
use before attempting it and you understand the inherent dangers.
Inflation Setup
Use a STEARNS® “bellows” style foot pump (Model B502) or
equivalent pump to inflate your boat. Use caution not to over inflate
your boat. (Pump not included)
For proper inflation and safety, the user must make sure that the wall
inflation valves are sealed properly.
! WARNING
NEVER USE COMPRESSORS, CO2 OR COMPRESSED AIR. DO
NOT OVER-INFLATE THE FLOOR OR THE SIDE CHAMBERS.
8
5.1 QUICK START TO INFLATING YOUR KAYAK
Follow the steps listed below. Damage to chambers can occur if these
steps are not followed. For more information on inflation see page 11.
1. Unfold and lay out kayak on flat, level ground
2. Floor should be positioned inside Hull
DO NOT OVER INFLATE FLOOR CHAMBER beyond 1.0 psi (0.07 bar)
3. First inflate the floor chamber until chamber feels semi-firm.
DO NOT OVER INFLATE MAIN CHAMBERS beyond 1.75 psi (0.12 bar)
4. Partially inflate the inner chamber (inside chamber closest to
the seating area). Refer to page 10 for valve operation.
5. Partially inflate the outer chamber, until the cover shape begins
to fill out. The kayak should feel soft or limp at this point.
6. Make sure the 2 air valves are aligned with the cover. Adjust
cover if necessary.
7. Next add air to each chamber until most of the wrinkles are gone
and the kayak feels firm to the touch.
8. Inflate spray ring and spray deck chambers orally or with a pump.
9. Make sure all air valves are closed and screwed down tightly.
To inflate
To deflate
Twist to inflate/deflate
Other chambers
Main chambers
Floor chamber
9
5.2 KNOWING YOUR VALVES
Yukatat™ kayak uses three types of valves. Type I (Type II, is a smaller
version) to inflate floor and main chambers. Type IV is used to fill small
chambers such as spray rings and spray deck lifters.
Type I (II)
Valve
Cap
To inflate
.
Welded
Reciprocal
To deflate
Type IV
Twist to inflate/deflate
5.3 MAKE SURE:
1. Air chamber valves are centered with the inflation valve cover
2. Upper and lower weld seams of the air chambers are running parallel
with the cover and centered all around
If the air chambers are not aligned or centered:
A. Relieve air pressure
B. Unzip the cover
C. Partially inflate
D. Realign air chambers, zip cover and inflate chambers
3. All valves are closed tightly
4. Bow and stern frame assembly are aligned
10
5.4 OVER INFLATION
Do not over-inflate the kayak. Over-inflation is the primary
cause of leaks. Inflate the kayak until most of the wrinkles in
the fabric are gone and it feels firm to the touch, but do not
exceed 1.75 psi (0.12 bar) in the main air chambers and 1.0 psi
(0.07 bar) in the floor chamber.
Water temperature and weather affect the air pressure in the
boat. In cold weather your kayak will lose some pressure
because the air will contract. If this occurs, you may want to
add more air to improve your boat’s performance. In hot
weather, the air will expand. You must let out some air to
prevent the boat from failing from over pressure. Avoid
exposing your kayak to extreme temperatures (hot or cold).
CAUTION
On warm sunny days, keep the kayak either in water or in
shade (if kept inflated on land). This will avoid expanding
chambers due to rise in temperature which can result in seam
tears, delamination, popped I-Beams and pinholes. Also keep
in mind to avoid asphalt, sand, pebbles or concrete in direct
sunlight as they radiate high ground heat.
Check for proper inflation often. Use your thumb to press on the port
(left) and starboard (right) air chambers. You should be able to press
down 3/4 in. (19 mm). The chamber should feel firm without too much
resistance.
If you have difficulty achieving 3/4 in. (19 mm), the chamber could be
over inflated.
If you are easily able to press further than 3/4 in. (19 mm), the chamber
could be under inflated.
Before paddling, be sure all the kayak's air chambers are properly
inflated.
! DANGER !
DO NOT overload your kayak which exceeds the rating on the
capacity plate. Overloading a kayak can result in loss of
control and an unsafe kayak. If your kayak has no capacity
plate, contact the selling dealer or the manufacturer.
11
6. UNDERWAY
In all your uses of STEARNS® Inflatable Kayaks, make SAFETY a high
priority. Each person should wear an approved personal flotation
device. Learn about your boating area. Get official information about
the local conditions, tides and currents before kayaking there. Be
careful that you do not overestimate your strength, endurance or skill.
Be careful never to underestimate the forces of nature.
6.1 Before You Start
Be smart when kayaking and using your equipment.
●
Properly inflate your kayak. Do not under or over inflate.
Outside temperatures of air and water will drastically change
the volume inside chambers. Chambers may need to be
adjusted (inflated or deflated) for optimum performance and
safety.
●
Know the conditions of the environment.
●
Tell someone of your travel plans. Check local weather reports
before casting off; do not leave the dock area when strong
winds and electrical storms are in the area or predicted to be in
the area.
●
Secure or store loose items before getting underway.
6.2 Transporting, Carrying and Towing
Your kayak should always be transported dry and in its transporting
(carrying) bag. Dry and clean as much as possible before placing boat
in carrying bag. Once you have reached your destination, or before
long periods of non-use, inflate the kayak and allow it to air dry before
storing.
Use care when transporting or storing to avoid sharp points or edges;
they will damage your kayak. Use the carrying handles to lift your
kayak. Never pull or lift it by the sides or attach any other device to lift
or carry it.
! WARNING
Do not exceed the maximum recommended load. The total
weight of all persons, gear and fluid capacities must
never exceed the maximum load.
12
6.3 Care and Maintenance
The STEARNS® inflatable kayak is made of very durable materials.
However, like anything else, proper care will increase the life of your
kayak. Before storing your kayak, make sure it is clean and completely
dry before you store it in its carrying bag. It should be deflated and kept
out of direct sunlight when stored. Avoid exposure to extreme
temperatures (hot or cold). If your kayak is exposed to freezing
temperatures while storing, allow it to warm before unfolding. If a zipper
is stuck or sticking, do not force it. Use liquid soap and a toothbrush to
lubricate the zipper open. Rinse completely.
Never unzip the chamber covers when the kayak is inflated.
Be sure to rinse your kayak with fresh water after every use in salt
water and allow it to dry thoroughly before storing.
To store your boat:
1. Wash your kayak using a mild soap or detergent. Never use strong
solvents to clean your kayak. Rinse it off with fresh water and allow
it to dry thoroughly before storing.
2. Deflate the kayak. Make sure the valves are open so air can flow
freely. Dry and clean as much as possible before placing kayak in
carrying bag.
3. Fix any punctures before storing your kayak in the carrying bag.
6.4 FOLDING
Fold
Fold
Detach one buckle and fold
between floor and chamber
1. Fold deflated kayak in half
2. Fold front (bow) and rear (stern) to center of kayak
3. Fold over one more time at center of kayak
13
7. REPAIRS
The STEARNS® Yukatat comes equipped with a repair kit that includes
adhesive and several patches. This can be found in the mesh pocket
and should remain with the boat. Making repairs to the inner tube of the
boat may require unzipping the cover and temporarily removing the
tube. Always make sure the boat is fully deflated before unzipping the
cover. If there is difficulty opening the zipper, refer to the section “Care
and Maintenance.” When the repair has been completed, be sure the
tube is aligned properly in the boat cover and the zipper is completely
closed and appropriately locked.
A
A
A
A = 1/2 in. (12.7mm)
Figure 9
7.1 Repairing Small Punctures and Cuts
1. Cut a patch which is round or with round corners, at least 1/2 in.
(12.7 mm) larger than the hole or cut.
2. Use water and/or mild soap to clean the area where the patch will
be placed.
3. Make sure all surfaces are dry.
4. Spread a thin layer of glue on both the patch and on the damaged
area and let it sit for three to five minutes or until tacky.
5. Press the patch onto the boat, making sure that no air bubbles form.
6. Apply pressure to the patch by placing weight on it. Do not peel
back to see if adhesive is holding.
7. Do not inflate the boat for at least twelve hours.
7.2 Repairing Pinholes
1. Inflate the kayak. Locate the pinhole by sponging soapy water over
the tube until you see air bubbles.
2. Deflate the kayak. Clean the area around the pinhole and apply a
drop of adhesive to the hole once the area is completely dry.
A patch may not be necessary.
14
7.3 Seam Openings
Seam openings are difficult to repair but can be done with certain seam
repair adhesives. Contact STEARNS® for more information or ask your
local marine shop.
8. TROUBLESHOOTING
This chart will help you find and correct minor problems with your
kayak.
Problem
Slow leak.
Solution
Check valve gaskets and make sure the
cap tether is not interfering with the seal.
The valve gaskets must be closed tightly.
Still leaks slowly.
Check for pinholes. Read section
“Repairing Pinholes.”
Air valves don’t align.
Let air out of both chambers to allow you to
shift the inner tube to match up with the
valve holes in the cover.
Doesn’t inflate
completely.
Make sure that the tube is aligned.
The zipper is stuck.
Read “Care and Maintenance” section
(6.3) regarding zippers.
Difficulty draining water. Wipe off excess water with a high absorbing
sponge or towel. The kayak dries much
quicker inflated, and in a well ventilated
area. Do not expose in direct sunlight to dry.
Deflate kayak and briefly hang it from the
molded handles with seat removed and
seating compartment exposed. To avoid
mold, do not pack or fold while kayak is
damp or wet.
15
9. LIMITED WARRANTY
STEARNS® warrants this product to be free from defects in material or
workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase.
Products that prove to be defective under conditions of normal and
proper use during the warranty period because of defective
workmanship or faulty material will be replaced or repaired without
charge. For warranty service, return product to place of purchase.
STEARNS® shall inspect all warranty claims and in the event of a
defect, repair or replace the defective part or entire item, at its option.
This warranty does NOT cover:
Products used for rental, for hire or in professionally guided tours and
other uses not considered normal recreational purposes; punctures,
cuts and abrasions sustained in normal use; items involved in
accidents; items damaged in whitewater mishaps, and other
unreasonable uses or improper storage.
STEARNS® shall within (30) days from receipt of an authorized return
from purchaser, perform its responsibilities in conformance with this
warranty.
THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES WHICH EXTEND BEYOND THE
DESCRIPTION OF THE FACE HEREOF. STEARNS SHALL NOT BE
HELD LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
THIS WARRANTY IS INCLUSIVE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have
other rights that vary from state to state.
Stearns®
1100 Stearns Drive
Sauk Rapids, MN 56379
USA
320-252-1642
16
STEARNS® WARRANTY REGISTRATION
(PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT CLEARLY)
Please complete and mail this card to Stearns within 10 days. It will
register your product in case you ever lose your proof of purchase
information.
Owner’s Name _____________________________________________
Address __________________________________________________
City _________________ State_______ Zip________ Country_______
Model #
❑
Yukatat™ (B523)
H.I.N. # ______________________
Purchase Date _____________________________________________
Dealer’s Name _____________________________________________
Address __________________________________________________
City _________________ State_______ Zip________ Country_______
Thank you for responding to the following:
1. How did you first learn of this product?
_____ Dealer
_____ TV
_____ Friend
_____ Magazine _____ Radio
_____ Other
_____ Catalog _____ Internet
2. What most influenced your decision to purchase this product?
_____ Price
______ Features ______ Stearns’ reputation
______ Other
_____ Quality
3. Do you own other Stearns products?
______Yes
______ No
If yes,
______ Watersports Products
______ Stearns Outdoors® Products
______ Mad Dog Gear® Products
17
NO POSTAGE
NECESSARY
IF MAILED
IN THE
UNITED STATES
BUSINESS REPLY MAIL
FIRST CLASS
PERMIT NO. 558
ST. CLOUD, MINNESOTA
POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE
STEARNS INC
PO BOX 1498
ST. CLOUD, MN 56302-9743
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