Backpacker Magazine – November 2008

How to Do Everything - Gear

Patch a tent hole, layer for extreme conditions, clean your stove, make an old bag warmer, and more.

by: Annette McGivney

Hiking | Packing & Planning | Camping | Gear | First Aid & Health | Cooking

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Fix Your Tent | Warm Up Your Sleeping Bag, Your Clothes | Clean Your Stove/Pick the Right Matches | Two-Second Tips

PATCH A HOLE IN YOUR TENT
Don't try to sew a gash smaller than two inches in diameter–it might lead to leaks and stress-related tears. Instead, fix it with adhesive ripstop nylon repair tape (such as Kenyon K Tape) or a pre-cut peel-and-stick tent repair patch (like what MSR sells at msrgear.com).
1) Wipe the damaged area clean with water and/or an alcohol prep pad from your first-aid kit. Let dry.
2) If using tape, cut a piece that extends 1/4 inch beyond the tear. Round the edges with scissors to prevent fraying.
3) Place a hard surface (such as a book or cutting board) under the area.
4) With one hand, pull the torn tent fabric back together as closely as possible. Use the other hand to press the patch on top of the tear. Press from the middle of the patch toward the outer edges, smoothing any ripples or bubbles.
5) If the gash is on the floor or rainfly, repeat the taping process on the opposite side for extra security.

FIX A BUM TENT POLE

• Broken pole Splint the busted section by sliding an aluminum pole sleeve over it (a 3- to 4-inch tube is included with most new tents; MSR and Adventure Medical Kits also sell tent repair kits). Duct-tape both ends to hold in place. Return the pole to the manufacturer for repair when you get home.
• Slack shock cord If a pole goes limp, cold weather and/or repeated use are probably to blame. Pull off the cap from one end of the pole, cut off 5-6 inches of cord, re-knot the end, and replace the cap. Gear shops or the manufacturer can replace the cord when it's shot.

 

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