How To Replace the Freewing GO Bladder

In this video we will show you how to replace the Freewing GO bladder. 1. Supplies Required: GO Wing Replacement bladder (size-specific, strut/LE) String or strong line (Dyneema kite line with loop end recommended - 3m) Secure attachment point at floor level (weight or pillar if working alone) Friend (if available) Sharpie 2. Preparation: Lay the wing out on the ground with the handles up. Ensure you have a spacious area to work in. Use the valve that comes with the replacement bladder. 3. Removing the Old Bladder: For the Leading Edge (LE): Open the end cap by pushing your fingers in and pushing down the Velcro. For the Wingtip: Pull out the inner wingtip pocket. Locate and pull the bladder white tab. Attach the loop of the line to the tab. Attach the line to both bladder wingtip tabs. Remove the valve cap (hold onto it), push thumbs down, and separate the Velcro on the inner collar. Unzip and grab the bladder, pulling it out, ensuring the line comes through. Start on one side, then move to the other side. Leave the line attached until ready to insert the new bladder. 4. Repair Methodology for Leading Edge (LE): Get the new bladder. Orientate the valve to the correct position. Mark a horizontal reference on the valve to avoid twists. Fold the bladder over itself neatly, starting at the zipper position (flaking). Flatten the leading edge. Fold the bladder tab downwards in the opposite direction of the valve. Secure the line to the bladder tab. a) Have a friend pull the line out carefully while keeping the LE flat on the ground. b) Pull the wing away from an anchor while keeping the wing flat on the floor. Tip: Avoid raising the wing to prevent twisting. Pull the bladder through and locate the valve. Identify the horizontal lines and ensure they align correctly with no bladder in between. Zip it back up. Remove the line and fold it back, then fold it together and tuck it back in. Replace the valve. Pump it up slowly, identifying any twists. Massage it while it’s still soft. Pump and be vigilant of the shape as it inflates and stop before any harsh creases or twists. If needed, take the bladder out and start again. 5. Center Strut: Fold the wing in half. Identify the small string at the join of the strut and LE. If there are two strings, attach to both. Push the valve out and hold the cap, then release the Velcro. Undo the Velcro of the strut pocket. Pull the bladder out until it’s fully out with both strings. 6. Replacing the Center Strut Bladder: Start flaking the new bladder from the tail to the valve. End with the valve on top. Attach the two strings to the two corners of the new bladder tab. Reference mark the orientation (pen mark the valve on either side). With a friend or anchor, carefully pull the bladder up the length of the strut. When the white string comes out at the corner of the tab, you’re finished. Locate and reach inside for the valve, staying clear of the Velcro. Ensure there’s nothing between the valve and the bladder. Fold the tab over and stuff it back in, similar to a camping bag. Fold the inner strut tip pocket back in and secure it with Velcro. Inflate slowly, checking for potential twists and buckles. Massage any creases out as required. If there are harsh creases or twists, take the bladder out and start again.
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