Building Your Own ZipGlove Leak Tester

In testing ZipGloves, we use the G99 upside down from its intended design (Figure 1).

Figure 1

As such we must also invert the check valve installed by the manufacturer. Simply unscrew the metal base from the bellows (Figure 2).

Figure 2

This will expose the check valve stem (much like those used in regulator 2nd stage exhausts). Carefully draw the check valve out of its retaining groove without damaging the stem. Re-insert the check valve on the opposite side (as shown in Figure 2). Re-attach the bellows.

The 3" Qwik Cap will require a 1inch diameter hole in the center (this is a generic plumbing fitting, so any practically any 3" fitting will work). We've used a 1" dye or grommet hole punch very effectively, however a sharp utility knife will suffice if you have a steady hand. Install the cuff dump valve in the 1" hole such that the air flow direction matches (Figure 3).

Figure 3

Using your G99 Zip Glove Inflator

Insert the 3" Qwik Cap into the opening of your Zip Glove Ring. It will be a snug fit, but with practice it gets much easier. Ensure that the Qwik Cap is fully inserted as in Figure 4.

Figure 4

Place the assembly of ZipGlove and Qwik Cap onto the bellows and pump air into the glove. Use a spray bottle filled with a mild dish soap solution to wet the glove. Bubbles will form in the area of any leak. Examine the glove carefully to be sure you've found any/all leaks. Circle the leak (with a ballpoint pen for Blue or Orange gloves or a chalk/grease pencil for black gloves) so you can complete your inspection and return later to patch your glove.

A 50/50 mixture of AquaSeal (sealant) and Cotol (accelerant) is optimal for patching any leaks. The mixture should have the consistency of honey. As always apply 3 thin layers of sealant to the area around the leak, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.

The gloves need to be dry before repairing.  If repairing Maximum Dexterity or Heavy Duty ZipGloves, wipe the area dry with a paper towel. Neoprene ZipGloves should be dry before applying the AquaSeal/Cotol mix.

Important: Repairs are made on the inside of the ZipGlove.

Most repairs can be made with about a dime sized patch of sealant, but obviously a larger area as needed. The glove will lose some flexibility with a very large patch size, so check it twice when you locate the hole you intend to patch to be sure you seal it with as little as possible and as much as needed.

We have found the best success with several thin coats of AquaSeal/Cotol making sure to allow each coat to dry completely. 

*often available through McMaster Carr or Salisbury
7520 North Long Avenue
Skokie, IL 60077 USA
www.whsalisbury.com

**available at Home Depot, Lowes etc.