How to Remove a Tube Bladder and Locate a Leak

If you’ve noticed your towable tube deflating unexpectedly, don’t worry—finding and fixing the issue is easier than you might think. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to remove the bladder from your tube, inspect the valve, and locate any leaks, so you can get back on the water in no time.

Remove the Bladder

The first step in diagnosing a deflation issue is to remove the bladder from the tube. If your tube has multiple bladders, you only need to remove the one that’s losing air. Start by locating the zipper on the cover—typically at the front of the tube—and carefully unzip it to access the bladder inside.

Gently pull the bladder out, making sure not to tug too hard or damage the material.

Inspect the Boston Valve

Once the bladder is out, focus on the Boston valve. A common reason for air leaks is cross-threading during inflation, which can create small gaps where air escapes.

To check this:

Fully unthread the valve from the bladder.

Then re-thread it carefully, making sure it goes in straight and tight.

This simple reset can often fix the issue without further repair.

Test for Valve Leaks with Water

After reseating the valve, inflate the bladder and use a small cup of water to test for leaks. Pour water into the valve’s well and look for bubbles. If you see bubbling, the valve is likely cross-threaded or faulty. Try unscrewing and re-threading it again before testing a second time.

If the valve passes this test, it’s time to check the rest of the bladder.

Check the Tube for Punctures

With the bladder still inflated, carefully inspect the seams and outer edges for small holes or tears. Move slowly around the entire perimeter, listening closely or feeling for air escaping.

If you're lucky, like in the video, you might hear or see the leak right away. Once identified, you can either repair it yourself or contact the manufacturer for support.

Use Soapy Water for Tricky Leaks

Some leaks are more difficult to find. In these cases, a bit of dish soap and water goes a long way.

Here’s how:

Mix dishwashing liquid with water to create a soapy solution.

Pour it over the inflated bladder.

Watch closely—if bubbles form anywhere, you've found your leak.

This method highlights even the smallest punctures, making it much easier to pinpoint the problem area.

What’s Next?

Once you’ve located the leak, you can either patch it yourself or refer to the next video in the series for a step-by-step repair tutorial.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining your towable tube doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a bit of care and the right technique, you can easily find and fix leaks yourself. Regular inspection and proper storage can also help extend the life of your gear, keeping your fun on the water safe and uninterrupted.