Cold kites deflating

[speedsailor93]

I have noticed that when it is colder than about 10f and my kites have been stored in the garage that they slowly loose pressure when used. This has now happened on 3 of my T3's. When I bring them in the house to test for leaks I can never find any. Also if I keep them in the house the night before use they are fine. Suspect it is the dump valves that are very inflexible when cold and hard to push in. Just wondering if anybody else has seen this or has other ideas on this?
Cheers,
Alan

[Tighe]

I'd think it might be the inflate valve. If you really jam the nozzle in it can stretch the valve out and then in the cold it doesn't tighten around the plug. Not sure what else might be happening. You are pumping it up, storing it and flying them in the same temp? hmm

[Bryce]

In cold weather, I'll always blow a few breaths right through the valve to make sure it is warm and the plastic isn't brittle. Also helps if it is stretched out to help go back to its normal size.

[Travii]

You have to warm up and massage the nipple. Just don't go overboard.

[skico]

Check that the deflate valve is fully closed with the velco strap tight. I had my T2 leak while riding as the exhaust valve was pushing out. This has been a problem with both the T2 and T3. One more thing, when you inflate it let it sit for a bit to equalize the struts out and then add more air.