AARGH! Need Advice on Repairing Inner Tube in Townshend Rock

Mister Pig · « **on:** 24 Apr 2010, 03:22 am »

A little while ago, I was in the process of installing a different armboard on my Townshend Rock MK 3. The armboard was thicker than the stock one, and I had to source different screws for it. I got ones that were slightly too long. and in the process poked a hole in the inner tube. Feel like a real idiot!

I know where the hole is, which is right below a bolt hole, I am hear it leak when I pressurize the inner tube.

Anyone have any suggestions on how to disassemble the table? Or is there a way to make the repair without taking it apart?

Any suggestions, or advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

Regards
Mister Pig

Mister Pig · « **Reply #1 on:** 24 Apr 2010, 05:08 am »

I pumped more air in the table to show my son where the leak was. I had heard it before quite plainly. This time there was no noise. The suspension raised up, and the low pressure sensor on the table turned off.

Wonder if there is a sealant in the tube? I removed the arm board one more time to see if I could access the damaged spot without dissassembling the table.The leak appeared to have been in the back left corner.

Other than putting a lot of air into the tube looking for the leak earlier, I did nothing else. I watched the suspension lift up and settle down, so there was a leak. How it repaired itslef I really am not sure. The only scenerio that makes sense is the tube contains a sealant, and it did its job.

Guess I am going to keep an eye on this and watch how it plays out. So far its been ok, hope I am past the worst of this.

Regards
Mister Pig

toobluvr · « **Reply #2 on:** 24 Apr 2010, 05:31 am »

Two years ago I had to repair a leak in my Townshend Rock 3 bladder. Nightmarish all day job, but doable with patience.

Let me know if you need pointers/guidance.

If you punched a hole, it will eventually leak. And it will eventually get worse and worse, but it may take years. I didn't even know I had a hole till it progressed like this: for years I had to keep inflating every week or so (thought it was just normal)...... then every few days..... Then every day....then every few hours. Obviously a leak. At that point no choice but to dismantle the whole thing. There was a leak where the valve stem met the tube.

Repair I did is holding up very well. It only needs a single pump or two every 2 months or so. Even when new the table did not hold air this well. Probably had a tiny leak since day 1.

JackD201 · « **Reply #3 on:** 24 Apr 2010, 06:22 am »

Drop Florence a line at Townshend Audio. She should be able to help you guys out.

toobluvr · « **Reply #4 on:** 24 Apr 2010, 12:20 pm »

I don't need any help. Mine has been repaired and fully inflated for 2 years now.

Besides, it's pretty obvious how to get access to the tube if you need to. Tenacity and brute strength is all that's needed. Only so many ways to open up a clam with tons of glue holding everything together!

jtsnead · « **Reply #5 on:** 24 Apr 2010, 12:48 pm »

I have one that would only stay inflated for a couple of hours.
Might have to get it out and try to repair if toobluvr did it.
Did you use a bicycle patch kit?