correct Air-Pressure for inflating a Hobie i14T Tandem?

Hi Hobie Experts!

I need your help. I am using a electronic controlled inflation air pump – the “Bravo BTP12, Digital inflation pump with built in digital gauge & stop”

- Which is the exact best pressure for the “floor tube” Hobie I-14T ?
- Which is the exact best pressure for the two “side tubes” Hobie I-14T ?
3psi, 5psi, 7psi, 10psi? At what air temperature?

While deflating the Hobie i14T - is it OK to use the pump to make a vacuum inside the tubes for easier packaging and storing?

Thanks a lot
Tom






The BTP12 Digital can inflate up to 14.5 PSI (1bar) and is fitted with a digital pressure gauge and will stop automatically when the tubes reach the pressure you have set using the easy to use digital gauge.
Power supply 12V DC
Maximum absorption 20 A
Maximum pressure 1 bar / 14.5 psi
Maximum flow rate Turbine 450 l/min Piston 160 l/min
Weight 1.7 Kg

- Reading scale in bar and psi.
- Automatic stop when selected pressure is reached
- Fitted with aspiration air filter, easily accessible for cleaning and replacement
- Equipped with connectors for dinghies and kites
- Equipped with shoulder bag
- With 1.70 m tube and 3 m power cord
- Can inflate and deflate
- also perfect for kites and SUP boards

Here's a link to the manual: http://static.hobiecat.com/digital_assets/inflatable-kayak-manual-140520.pdf

Refer to page 4.

Basically 3 to 5 psi or firm to the touch. I'd set the pump to 3 psi & finish by hand pump to be safe. If you over-inflate your warranty may not be honored. Nothing specific about deflating with the pump, just don't get too aggressive!

Hope this helps!

Have you tried to hand pump the yak? Doesn't take very long. And you will have a very hard time over inflating with the hand pump. Good Luck

Until now i always used the hobie hand pump - after inflating the gauge says 6.5 psi.

Now, with the electronic controlled inflation air pump (set to 5 psi) the boat is mutch softer and not so fast on the water then with 6.5 psi.
The Kayak is mutch better to drive when its harder.

I am always talking about temperature condition in water! Of course the the boat with 6.5 psi should NOT be out of water and in full sun.

So whats the limit for the 3 tubes?

Great thanks!

From the Manual: Do not over-inflate the kayak. A pressure of 3-5 PSI is adequate if you have a pressure gauge.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)