SEA EAGLE STS10 Stealth Stalker Owner’s Manual
- June 4, 2024
- SEA EAGLE
Table of Contents
Stealth Stalker
Sea Eagle STS10
Instruction & Owner’s Manual
For video, instructions visit
SeaEagle.com/Instructions or scan the QR
code below!
Sea Eagle Boats Inc.
19 N. Columbia Street, Suite 1
Port Jefferson, NY 11777
1-800-748-8066
August 2022http://sea.gl/visit
Congratulations on purchasing a Sea Eagle!
With over 50 years of experience in designing, selling, and using this quality
inflatable, we’re confident that you are going to love your Sea Eagle and
we’re ready to proudly stand behind them.
Sea Eagle Warranty
All Sea Eagle products come standard with a 3-year warranty against
manufacturing defects. The warranty begins on the date that your product is
delivered.
See complete warranty details at
SeaEagle.com/Warranty.
If you receive a damaged item, please call the shipping carrier to report the
issue. Do not return damaged merchandise until it has been inspected by the
carrier. Sea Eagle will be notified by the carrier when they have completed
their inspection and if necessary, Sea Eagle will arrange for the repair or
replacement of damaged merchandise.
Decals, Stickers & Registration
Always contact your state kayaking authorities for information on kayaking
registration and regulations. Most states require you to register your boat if
you are using a motor. *The Sea Eagle STS10 is rated for use with up to a 4
hp motor with a 20” long shaft.
Upon registration, it may be required to provide the Manufacturer’s Statement
of Origin. Purchases made through an authorized dealer or reseller may require
you to contact them directly in order to obtain this. You may be charged your
own state sales tax if you were not charged sales tax at the time of purchase.
Registered boats generally require the registration number to be applied to
the boat. We do not recommend the use of decals or stickers as they tend to
crack and peel over time with the repeated inflation and deflation of your Sea
Eagle. Instead, we suggest applying these numbers to a small piece of hard
plastic or marine plywood and hanging it from your boat like a license plate
if permitted by your state. Another method is to apply the numbers to the hull
using either PVC-based paint or a permanent marker.
Contact Us
Unlike many other companies today we pride ourselves on answering the phone
and helping you with any concerns, questions, or special ordering needs that
you may have! Feel free to give us a call at
1-800-748-8066 and we will be happy
to talk with you! Our business hours are Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM,
EST.
Sea Eagle Boats Inc.
19 N. Columbia Street, Suite 1
Port Jefferson, NY 11777
1-800-748-8066
Staff@SeaEagle.com
SAFETY
In a manual of this type, it is impossible to give adequate space to the topic
of water safety. For further information on boating safety, visit
USCGBoating.org or enroll in a water safety course given by a local provider.
As a safety reminder, each Sea Eagle has a safety summary we call Boating
Safety Basics printed on it. Please follow these suggestions and use good
boating safety practices. In addition to the basics, we suggest you have
reasonable swimming ability and know that it is safer to go boating with a
buddy. If you go alone, tell someone your float plan as described below. When
possible, plan your trip so you go upwind on the way out and downwind on the
way back.
Boating Safety Tips
- Always wear a USCG-approved PFD (life vest) at all times while on the water.
- Be aware of your local boating rules and regulations and abide by them accordingly.
- Check inflation levels each time before you go out and inflate your boat for a full 24 hours before undertaking long trips.
- DO NOT allow children to use your Sea Eagle unsupervised.
- DO NOT consume alcohol while boating or operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- DO NOT drag your Sea Eagle over pavement or cement (eg: parking lot or boat ramp) if it can be avoided.
- DO NOT exceed the certified maximum capacities of this boat under any circumstance.
- DO NOT go boating alone.
- DO NOT use compressors, CO2, or compressed air for inflation, only use Sea Eagle recommended pumps.
- DO NOT use your Sea Eagle Boat as a personal flotation device as they are not rated for that use.
- DO NOT sleep inside of your Sea Eagle while on the water.
- Bring a fully charged cell phone or other emergency contact device in a waterproof bag.
- Always tell someone about your boating plans.
Right of Way
Stay out of boat channels whenever possible. Be prepared to yield right of way
to larger boats especially if the oncoming boat has structures such as cabins
or open hatches that limit the visibility of the waters ahead.
Safety Equipment & Important Safety Items
Water conditions will determine the type of safety equipment needed. At a
minimum have a PFD (personal flotation device) and a whistle for each
passenger. PDFs are required by law In most places.
Drinking Water & Snacks: Boating is a physical activity that can deplete
your reserves. Have enough water and snacks to prevent dehydration and loss of
stamina. Bring enough water for all passengers. Know the warning signs of
dehydration and heat sickness such as dizziness and shaking.
Extra Clothes/Layers: Avoid deadly hypothermia. Water conducts heat
faster than air, so go prepared with weatherproof clothing especially if the
water is cold. Use a “dry bag” to store extra clothing inside so they’re not
damp when needed. Wear a wetsuit or dry suit when warranted.
First Aid Kit: Contents of the kit may vary depending on your preferences
but be sure to include items that match the hazards you are likely to
encounter. A waterproof container is recommended.
Manual Pump/Repair Kit : Although our boats are both durable and rugged,
it may be possible that you need to make a repair while on the water in which
case you’ll need the repair kit and a manual pump to re-inflate the boat. If
this is your first repair, you may also want to bring this instruction manual
with you.
Sun/Rain Protection: A hat can protect both your face and head from the
rain or sun. Sunscreen will help prevent serious damage to your skin from the
sun and the sun’s reflection from the water. Reapply sunscreen as needed
Whistle: Having a whistle readily available to you in case of an
emergency is a great way to attract the attention of others if assistance is
needed.
Float Plan: Similar to a pilot’s Flight Plan, consider having a Float
Plan (www.floatplancentral.org). Always
tell someone where you are going to be boating and what time you plan to
return. Keep a cell phone in a waterproof container that will float if it
falls in the water.
Boating is challenging and inherently dangerous. Follow safe boating
practices. Be physically fit enough to meet the challenges, be prepared for
any weather conditions that might be anticipated, and follow the safety
basics. Protect all personal items in a waterproof bag. Secure all accessories
to the boat.
Motor Safety and Reboarding
**Warning:** Spinning propellers and carbon monoxide produced by gas engines can cause serious injury or death.
- Do not approach a running motor from the water.
- If you or your passenger falls overboard, do not attempt to reboard in the motor mount area.
- Turn the engine off at a safe distance when approaching a swimmer in the water.
- Install propeller guard on gas motors
If the motor is equipped with an engine safety cutoff (kill) switch, the driver must attach the cable to themselves, either around the thigh or wrist or to clothing (preferably a life jacket). In addition:
- Test regularly to ensure that the engine stops when the kill cord is pulled from the switch.
- Make sure that the kill cord is in good condition.
- Always attach the kill cord securely to the driver, ideally before the engine is started, but certainly before the boat is put in gear.
- Stop the engine before transferring the kill cord to another driver.
- Wireless kill switches are available and each passenger can wear one.
Reboarding:
To get back in the boat from the water, hold the oarlock with one hand. Stay
low in the water and with a big scissor kick and pull on the oarlock, grab one
of the seats and throw one leg over onto the boat. Roll into the boat.
Warning Labels:
Safety Instructions/Boating Safety Basics are glued to the inside of the left
chamber mid-ship.
Safety Training
Completion of an approved boating safety course is recommended for all
operators of powered boats and is required for junior operators in many
jurisdictions.
OPERATING YOUR SEA EAGLE
Working Pressure: Maximum recommended pressure is 3.2 psi (.22 bar).
Warning: Over-pressurization could lead to catastrophic failure and
sudden release of compressed air. Serious injury to persons nearby could
result. The maximum recommended pressure is 3.2 psi (.22 bar).
As air is compressed it heats up and expands. Warm air occupies more volume
than cool air. If the water is cold, warm air in the boat will shrink and some
rigidity will be lost. Allow a few minutes for the boat to cool off in the
water, and if needed, top it off with enough pump strokes to bring it back up
to pressure. The boat could also appear to lose
pressure overnight if the nighttime temperature drops significantly below the
daytime temperature.
The Stealth Stalker holds a lot of air! Inflating with the manual pump is hard
work and takes approximately 15 minutes with breaks to inflate the boat. The
exercise from inflating the boat may be valuable, but often kayaking time is
limited and it is better to get out on the water as quickly as possible. An
electric pump is recommended for achieving that goal.
Caution: Inflating the boat manually is physically demanding. Pace
yourself. If you feel uncomfortable, stop and rest, do not proceed if you are
having a health issue.
Caution: BEFORE & DURING USE: Whether the boat is in its bag or
inflated, avoid damage; do not drag your Sea Eagle over abrasive surfaces like
asphalt parking lots, gravel, or concrete boat ramps, Carry or wheel your Sea
Eagle from the car to the setup point, and then into the water when assembled.
Rocks and sticks usually will not damage a Sea Eagle but be alert for
partially hidden or submerged hazards like metal signs, shopping carts, and
other debris, especially during periods of low water. Be careful of docks that
may have exposed nails or screws.
FISH SPINES: Many species of fish have sharp spines that can cause small
punctures in the STS10. Do not allow fighting fish to bump the boat. Use a net
to pull fish out of the water when possible.
Capacity Ratings and Dimensions:
Persons: 4 Persons
Total Weight Capacity: 1200 lbs
Maximum Engine Rating: 4 HP, 20” Shaft recommended for gas motors
Chambers: 3
Length: 10’ 1”
Boat Weight: 45 lbs (122 lbs with floorboard, motor mount, oars, seats &
rod holders.)
Width: 5’
Material: PVC
Compliance
Sea Eagle boats comply with ABYC Standards, US Coast Guard standards for
recreational boats, and labeling for compliance with California Proposition
65.
Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including DEHP
(Di(2-Ethylhexyl)phthalate), which is known to the state of California to
cause Cancer, Birth Defects, or other reproductive harm. For more information
go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
Invasive Species Control: Introduction of non-native plants and animal is
a serious problem that can irreversibly harm local habitats. If your boat is
to be used in multiple waterways, remove the floorboards, drain the boat,
disinfect all items with a sanitizer such as a mild bleach solution, or allow
them to air dry before launching in a new waterway. Check local requirements
for decontamination. Procedures are sometimes posted near launch ramps and
put-in points. Sea Eagle boats are constructed of chemical-resistant PVC,
sanitizers will not damage the material. Steam cleaning is also acceptable.
Motor Selection
The STS-10 can take an electric trolling motor or small gas motor up to 4 hp.
Because of its lightweight, the STS-10 only needs a small trolling motor such
as the Watersnake Venom 34 or Minn Kota Endura 30. For gas motors, a 20”
shaft (“long shaft”) is recommended.
Gas Powered
Some of the advantages of gas motors over electric trolling motors include;
increased range over battery-powered motors, ample power against a headwind,
and they do not require a heavy marine deep cell battery or expensive lithium-
ion batteries. Disadvantages include; high initial cost, maintenance costs,
and gasoline storage. A 20” long shaft works best. A 15” short-shaft motor
will work only at low speed and the boat must be weighted towards the rear,
otherwise the propeller will pull air down from the surface.
The STS-10 is a “displacement hull” that does not plane, it pushes up a wave
at the bow and cannot overcome the wave. A gas motor can provide more power
than the STS-10 can take advantage of. In calm conditions, the speed of the
boat is limited to its hull speed of approximately 4 mph. Beyond a certain
setting, approximately ¼ throttle, the motor may shake, ventilate (pull air
down to the propeller), or the sound may change to a deep rumbling with no
increase in speed (lugging). For these reasons, using more than a small motor
like a Honda 2.3 hp is not needed.
Torqeedo and similar electric motors are powerful like gas motors and perform
like gas motors.
Electric Trolling Motor
Some advantages of trolling motors are; their low cost, lightweight, ease of
storage, low maintenance requirements, quiet operation, and usability in
bodies of water that prohibit gas motors.
There are some basic features to know in order to understand electric motors.
The thrust rating of a motor is also its maximum electrical draw-in amps. A 30
lb thrust motor draws about 30 amps on the highest setting. To extend range,
operate the motor on a lower setting. For example, the Watersnake Venom 34 has
five settings and draws approximately 12 amps on the #3 power setting.
Watersnake and Minn Kota trolling motors can easily push the STS-10 to its
hull speed. According to Minn Kota, their trolling motor propellers are
pitched to push a boat at approximately 4 mph. A larger thrust motor will not
appreciably raise the speed of the boat but could help in a strong headwind.
In a river or tidal current, the STS-10 cannot make progress against a current
that is more than its hull speed or the speed of the trolling motor. Forward
speed will vary depending on conditions, but if the current is moving faster
than the boat can go, it cannot make headway and may go backward relative to
land. Because of the limits of a displacement hull, adding a larger motor may
not be effective.
Battery Selection
A wide range of acceptable batteries is available. The battery must be 12
volts (unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer), deep cycle, and between
about 20 and 120 Amp Hours (Ah). Amp hours are a very important number, if
the battery you are looking at doesn’t clearly state the amp hours, it may not
be suitable. A 12v deep cycle lead-acid battery, personal watercraft battery,
electric vehicle (wheelchair) battery, or lithium-ion battery is acceptable. A
Group 24 lead-acid battery or smaller is recommended for the STS-10. Group 24
batteries weigh approximately 50 lbs and hold approximately 75 Ah of charge.
Bigger batteries, like Group 27 batteries weigh approximately 60 lbs, and hold
approximately 100 Ah, but can be difficult to safely manage in a small
inflatable boat.
Battery Features and Safety for Trolling Motors
-
To determine a motor’s approximate run time, divide the amp hour rating by the motor or thrust amperage. For example, a battery rated at 60 Ah connected to a 30 amp motor will last approximately two hours at full speed.
Note: this number will vary depending on conditions. -
Not more than 85% discharge is recommended. Multiply the above by 0.85 to get the best run time. Running the battery all the way down will shorten its life.
-
Charge battery after each use. Lead acid batteries like to be kept charged.
-
Exposure to excessive heat will shorten battery life.
-
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) and starting power are not a consideration.
-
12v automobile, lawn tractor, and motorcycle batteries can be used but are not designed for deep discharge and will wear out more quickly.
-
A battery box like the Minn Kota Power Center is recommended, especially around aluminum paddle shafts which could cause an electrical short. It has a built-in circuit breaker. It will keep bare skin and clothes protected if any acid leaks from the battery.
-
A circuit breaker provides important protection to the motor. See the Circuit Breaker section below.
-
A positive (+) red wire connects to the positive (+) battery terminal. Black wire to the negative terminal (-).
-
Caution: Do not attach the motor wires to the wrong battery terminals. Connecting to the wrong terminals can cause wires to heat up, melting the insulation and cutting through the boat.
-
A 12v battery charger will be needed. A charger with at least three phases (fast charge, slow charge, and maintenance are recommended. Chargers are widely available and prices range widely.
-
Choose the gel cell over the wet cell. The gel will be less likely to leak acid or get ruined if submerged.
-
Lithium or high-quality AGM batteries can be a good choice even if they are more expensive. They are generally lighter, discharge evenly for longer run times, and charge evenly for longer life. Lithium batteries require specific chargers, check the specs before buying a charger.
-
For some, two small batteries are better than one large, heavy one. A small backup battery can be helpful too.
Circuit Breaker to Prevent Overvoltage Destruction to Trolling Motors
A circuit interrupter (breaker or fuse) is needed to protect against
overvoltage, reverse polarity, and shorts.
Overvoltage can happen when the propeller gets bound up in weeds, fishing
lines, or anchor lines. The battery will keep providing electric current until
the motor burns out. Often smoke can be smelled or seen when this happens.
Overvoltage can damage the motor beyond repair. Protection of an ungrounded
current-carrying conductor is a Coast
Guard requirement as well.
Check the trolling motor manual for the size circuit interrupter recommended.
If the manufacturer’s information is not available, get one that has an
amperage rating that is more than the thrust rating, but as close to the
thrust rating as possible. For example, if the motor is rated for 45 lbs
thrust, the closest rated breaker may be rated for 50 amps.
SETUP: One-Time Assembly
There are some items that require one-time assembly. Once installed they may
remain in place when the boat is rolled up after use or require partial
assembly for use.
**Not all items described below are included with all boat packages.
Attach Seat Mounts to Floorboards
The non-skid textured surface faces upward in the boat. Seat release attaches
to the rough surface.
Needed: #2 (medium) or #3 phillips head screwdriver.
Seat Mounts
Each floorboard has holes for a quick-release seat mount. Hardware per seat
mount: 4 – 1-1/2” flathead screws 4 – T-nuts Insert screws through holes in
seat mount.
With rough side facing up, point mount tab towards long edge of floorboard and
place mount over screw holes. Stand the floorboard up on its edge so it is
easier to work on. On the bottom side of the board, begin turning T-nuts onto
the screws.
Note: If holes are partially covered by filler or paint, clear holes with
a screwdriver, file, or similar tool.
Hold T-nuts with a fingertip. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws.
STS10 is equipped with Scotty Glue-on pads: one bow, and one stern. These are primarily intended for Scotty Anchor Lock, but can be used for Scotty rod holders, triple mounts, fish finder display, transducer, cameras, bait boards, etc.
Scotty® Deck Mounts (OPTIONAL):
Locate the Scotty Deck Mounts and 7/8” screws. Screws are located in the
Orange Repair Kit.
Note: The Rod Holder Base has a quick release button.
The Anchor Lock Base uses a twist lock system. The operation sees page 9.
Use the screws to secure the mounting base to the pad. Orient the base so the
arrow points inboard.
Caution: Puncture hazard: do not thread screws into the base without the
Scotty Deck Mount.
Don’t Stab The Pad!
Use only ¼ – 20 x 7/8” screws provided in the orange repair kit. Longer
screws, pointed screws, etc., will puncture the air chamber.
Puncturing the air chamber in this manner is not covered under the warranty.
Swivel Seat/Pedestal
Bolt the seat to the pedestal using the 1/2” screws and wing nuts. The
hardware is usually packed with the seat mount.
Offset the swivel base so you have enough room to insert the screws and thread
the nuts. Tighten the nuts securely.
Caution: Before each use, check the screws that attach the swivel eat to
the plastic seat and the wing nuts that attach a swivel to the pedestal. Loose
fasteners could lead to a fall and injury.
SETUP: Valves & Pump
Using the Recessed Valves:
Remove the cap to access the valve stem.
Press and turn the stem counterclockwise so it can pop UP. When the stem is up, the valve is closed and will hold air.
To let air escape for deflation, press and turn the stem clockwise until locked open.
Setup: A41 Large Bellows Foot Pump
The A41 foot pump comes with a Recessed Valve Adapter. A spare adapter is in
the repair kit too. Adapters have either a red or black gasket. The black
gasket, which is thinner, may work better with STS10.
Using the A41 Large Bellows Foot Pump:
Open the pump by pushing down and releasing the black clip.
Slide the ribbed end of the Recessed Valve Adapter to the open end of the hose.
Screw the hose into the OUT port on the pump. Make sure it is threaded incorrectly and firmly for a good seal.
ASSEMBLY & INFLATION
Locate an area large enough to safely unfold the STS10. Check that the area is free of hazards that could injure you or damage the boat.
Floorboards
Push the floorboards into position. The boat may be very stiff when first
opened making the floorboards difficult to install. Open the valves to allow
some air to move inside. Adding some air to the chambers may help too.
The floorboards will overlap 4-6 inches in the middle. Rod holders must be clear of the boards or under the boards so boards can be lifted in the middle without hanging up on the rod holders. As a precaution, put the valve caps in the valve to prevent them from being accidentally pulled off by the floorboards.
With the wide side facing up, place the long strut onto the edge of one board. Lift the boards from the middle and insert the edge of the other board into the strut. Press down until fully seated. This step is best done with two people. At this time, floorboards do not need to be pushed all the way to the back or front of the boat.
If installing floorboards without a helper, place a tackle box or something similar under one side of the floorboards in the middle of the boat.
Pull boards upward until they can be joined together by the H-bar.
Once floorboards are joined together, remove the prop and push down on the
floorboards until flat.
Caution: Keep fingers out of the gap.
Insert the side struts, flat side down. If any of the side material is under the floorboards, it must be pulled out. Straddle the boat and hold the board down with one foot while pulling up on the side of the boat.
While the boat is deflated or partially inflated, slide motor lower mount bars into lower grommets.
Slide upper motor mount bars into top grommets. Push bars onto the grommets until they are fully seated.
Inflation
Close the valves. Twist the valve stem clockwise and allow the stem to pop up.
This will close the valve for inflation.
Insert the valve adapter into the valve and turn it to lock the hose in place. Have trouble inserting the adapter? See troubleshooting on page 14. Inflate each chamber until it is very firm. You cannot over-inflate with the Sea Eagle A41-foot pump.
Swivel Seat
Slide the base of the pedestal into the seat mount until you hear it lock. To
remove, lift the tab and slide out.
Caution: Check wingnuts and tighten them if necessary before each use.
Quick Release Base:
Push the stem into the base until it clicks. To rotate or remove the rod
holder, press the button and pull the rod holder upwards. To adjust rod angle,
loosen large black knob until teeth clear groves. Adjust the angle and
retighten.
Anchor Lock Base: Line up the slot in the stem with the key in the base. Slide stem into the base. To spin the Anchor Lock, lift it slightly and turn it. To remove it, turn it until the key and slot line up and pull it out.
Turn Anchor Lock so anchor hangs overboard. An 8-12 lb. mushroom or river anchor works well with the STS-10.
Stow Bag
Insert the male clip into the female part installed on the boat.
Oars
The pair of two-part oars snap together quickly.
Caution: Pinching Hazard. Keep skin clear of joint when pushing oar
shafts together.
Hold the pin down and insert the blade end into the handle end of the oar until the two parts snap together and the pin pops out of the hole locking the pieces together.
Attach oars to the boat by inserting the oar lock pin through the hole in the oar. Screw the ball tightly to secure the oar. Use the hook & loop closure to keep the oar in place when not in use.
Canopy (OPTIONAL)
The canopy kit includes two curved bars, two side rods, canvas, two black
knobs, and two 35mm (1 3/8”) screws. Additional hardware may be included that
is not for use on the STS10.
Layout canvas upside down (shiny side up).
Slide one curved bar into the canvas sleeve with locking holes up.
Slide the second bar into the other sleeve with locking holes facing down.
Fold the top over so the sidebars are lying on top of each other.
Insert the side rods into the curved bars until the locking pins engage
through the holes.
Place the canopy on the back of the boat with the short bars on top.
For ease of installation, lift the canopy up off the back of the boat so the side rods line up with the grommet holes. Insert 35mm screw through the grommet and rod. Use the knob to secure the screw. Repeat on the other side.
Insert 35mm screw through the grommet and rod. Use the knob to secure the screw. Repeat on the other side. A Phillips head screwdriver may be needed for this step.
Attach front straps to D-Rings near the front seat. Attach back straps to D-Rings at the back of the boat.
Adjust and tighten staps by sliding the buckles. The canopy canvas should be level and tight.
Floor Drains
Floor drains are intended to drain accumulated water while ashore.
Unscrew caps to open floor drains. If needed, remove the cap from its retainer ring so water drains freely without interference from the cap. If drains leak, refer to Troubleshooting page 16.
Your Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker is ready to go!
DEFLATION
Place the inflated boat onto its Boat Bag. Line up the front (bow) with the edge of the bag where the end flap is attached
To deflate, push down on the valve stem and quarter turns it to the right or
left. The stem will stay in the down position, allowing the air to escape.
Caution: Air escapes with force, do not place face directly over the
valve.
Remove the canopy, oars, and Scotty accessories. As the boat deflates, remove
the motor mount and side stringers. Pull the floorboards up where they meet in
the middle.
Remove the floorboards.
Fold one side of the boat onto the floor. Press down on the boat to force air out.
Fold the second side on top of the first and force air out. The boat will be long and narrow with the front of the boat laying on the main part of the bag.
Make a crease in the boat just in front of the side rod holders, about 40 inches from the back end. Fold the back of the boat on top of the sides.
Make a second fold so the boat is over the center of the bag
Pull the end flaps on top of the folded boat. Run the strap through both loops, then back through the first loop, and pull tight. Repeat with the second strap.
Pull the side flaps onto the end flaps and secure them with the straps.
CLEANING & PROTECTING
Dry after each use to avoid mold. While washing or rinsing: close the valve
and twist the cap on so water cannot enter the chamber. Sea Eagles can be
cleaned very effectively with general-purpose cleaning products and a scrub
brush. Towel dry.
Protection from the Sun and Heat
Avoid leaving the boat in direct sunlight when ashore.
Temperatures on a beach, dock, davit, etc. can get very high, which could
affect the vinyl or glue. Excessive exposure to sun and heat can cause your
Sea Eagle to become sticky or cause the glue to fail.
Treat the boat with a UV protectant such as 303 Aerospace Protectant.
Generally, protectants are a thin film of oil, which will help keep your Sea
Eagle clean and protected from UV damage. Avoid applying a protectant on the
EVA pad or places where foot traction is needed. A treated boat will repel
sand, water scum, and tar stains.
STORAGE
If you’re planning to leave your Sea Eagle outside, keep it raised off the
ground and covered so it is not exposed to sunlight, rain, leaves, berries,
bird droppings, etc.
Storage Tips: “The best way to store a Sea Eagle is folded up in its
bag”. – Cecil Hoge, Jr., Sea Eagle President
- Check for water in the chambers. Water will leak out of open valves when it is rolled up.
- Water left inside can leak out and cause a lot of molds. Dry thoroughly to prevent mold.
- Rodent-proof the storage area. Mice, squirrels, and other small rodents can do a lot of damage.
- Avoid excess heat. Do not store in direct sunlight, in an attic, or in a metal shed.
- In temperatures below freezing, do not drop, strike or unroll until it is brought to room temperature.
CLEANING & PROTECTING
- It can be stored inflated. If hung, support it along its length.
- After storage, inspect for loose items, damage, and leaks.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Troubleshoot Valve Adapter
The adapter will not turn in the valve opening. Remove the red gasket and
twist it tightly to stretch it. Once broken in, the adapter will turn easily.
Reinstall the gasket, the groove must be facing outward. Press the adapter
into the valve opening with force and turn it to the right.
If the valve opens and air rushes out when removing the adapter, pull on the
hose and then twist the adapter to left.
If your Sea Eagle has lost pressure, it does not necessarily mean it is
leaking. If it is inflated during the heat of the day and the temperature
drops during the night it will be softer in the morning. If launching in very
cold water, the air inside may contract and cause a loss of pressure. Add more
air to restore to full pressure. If the temperature is not a factor and your
boat is losing air pressure, it’s time to look for a leak. Follow these 4
steps to help locate the leak.
Step #1. LOOK
Visually inspect the boat close up and if necessary, flip it over and closely
check the outside. Any large leaks when your boat loses a considerable amount
of air should be clearly visible.
Step #2. LISTEN
If you have a rough idea of where your leak is but can’t see it, you may want
to try listening for it as you may be able to hear the air escaping and
pinpointing the leak.
Step #3. TIGHTEN
Check the tightness of the one-way recessed valves as well and if necessary,
tighten them with the valve wrench included in the repair kit canister.
REPAIRS
Step #4. SOAPY WATER TEST
You’ll need a bucket and liquid dishwashing soap. Fill the bucket with clear
water, and add a good squirt of soap (a couple of tablespoons) to the water.
Inflate the leaking chamber to full pressure. Spread lots of soapy water on
the leaking chamber with a hand towel or large sponge. Don’t assume the leak
is coming from the valve or seams. The peak may produce bubbles, make hissing
or sputtering noises, or spray water. Spray bottles are not effective at
locating many leaks.
Even though Sea Eagles are very rugged and tough, you may still experience the
occasional puncture. Fortunately, most repairs are fairly easy and only take a
few minutes. For extensive repairs, please contact us directly to provide you
with further assistance. The best way to do this is to e-mail us a digital
photo of the area in question along with your hull identification number to
staff@seaeagle.com.
You can also call us directly at
1-800-748-8066 and ask to speak
with Technical Support for further assistance or a quote for having your boat
mailed to our facilities for our professional repair services.
Sea Eagle repair fees start at $75.00 and do not include return shipping
charges. Please note that Sea Eagle does not service any other brand other
than our own. All items sent to our repair facilities must have prior
authorization in the form of a Return Authorization Number.
Repair Kit
All Sea Eagles come standard with a repair kit which includes PVC patches and
PVC glue. Repair kits also include a valve wrench.
PVC Based Glue
To patch your Sea Eagle, use an adhesive for PVC boats.
Plumber’s cement, epoxy, Flex Seal, water-poofing sprays, and Gorilla Glue do
not work.
Pinholes
Deflate the boat and thoroughly clean and dry the area that is to be repaired.
For small punctures, less than 1/8” apply a small drop of glue and allow 24
hours to cure.
Patching
The most common repairs are a puncture or small cuts. A penny-size patch is
sufficient for repairs of this type.
Trace the outline of a penny on the patch material and on the boat. If a larger patch is needed, use a larger item as a template.
Cut the patch along the outline with scissors.
Pro Tip: Trace the outline of the penny on masking tape and cut with a utility knife. Apply tape to the boat instead of tracing on the boat.
Apply glue to the patch and boat. Allow drying for 15 minutes. The glue must be dry to the touch. If the glue layer is thin, apply a second coat, and allow it to dry for 15 minutes.
Apply patch to the boat. Smooth with a finger or a smoothing tool such as a spoon, handle of a utility knife, or screwdriver. For best results, heat the patch with a hair dryer for 10-20 seconds and smooth with the tool.
Patching Tips:
- The chamber must be deflated or the air will force a path through the glue.
- Keep the patch size to a minimum, the bigger the patch, the harder it is to seal. The most common repair failures occur because the patch is too big.
- For repairs larger than a puncture, overlap the damaged area by about ½” on each side.
- Do not apply the patch while the glue is wet.
- Covering a leaking patch with another patch rarely fixes the problem. To remove a patch, heat it with a hair dryer and peel it off.
- For field repairs, allow at least an hour to cure. Other repairs, allow curing overnight.
- Patches can be removed by heating with a hairdryer.
- Never use a heat gun on your boat.
- Clamps and weights are not needed.
For a demonstration of good patching techniques, please view the How to Repair video on the instruction page of our website. There are a link at the bottom of every page at SeaEagle.com or type “instructions” into the search box.
Floor Drains
If you suspect the drains are leaking, prop the front of the boat up and fill
it with enough water to cover the drains. If water is leaking:
- Clear any sand in the threads
- Heat drain bases with a hair dryer (30 seconds).
Bases can become misshapen when the boat is tightly folded for long periods.
The heating will return the base to its original shape. Replace cap when done.
Caution: Do not allow hot hairdryer elements to touch base. The hot
elements will melt the base.
Contact Us
Unlike many other companies today we pride ourselves on answering the phone
and helping you with any concerns, questions, or special ordering needs that
you may have! Feel free to give us a call at
1-800-748-8066 and we will be happy
to talk with you! Our business hours are Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM,
EST.
Sea Eagle Boats Inc.
19 N. Columbia Street, Suite 1
Port Jefferson NY 11777
1-800-748-8066
staff@seaeagle.com
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
Sea Eagle offers a large array of accessories for your StealthStalker.
Personal Flotation Devices (OPTIONAL)
U.S.C.G. approved. Life jackets, paddling vests, and PFD Belts are available
in various sizes.
Life Jacket Whistle (OPTIONAL)
A bright orange whistle can clip onto your life jacket or be used with the
included lanyard to hang around your neck or wrist. Whistle has no parts or
balls that can jam or corrode.
See-me Safety Light (OPTIONAL)
Coast Guard-approved LED personal safety light emits a 360° light visible up
to 3.4 miles. It also attaches to a PFD!
BTP Turbo Electric Pump (OPTIONAL)
These electric pumps come with battery clamps, a nylon shoulder carry bag, a
hose, and adapters.
EZ Cart Wide (OPTIONAL)
Transport your Boat from your car to the water and back with ease. Quickly
assembles & disassembles.
303 Protectant (OPTIONAL)
Extends the life of your Sea Eagle. Simply spray on every 30-45 days to
improve resistance to UV, chemicals & other types of harmful exposure.