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Paddling Partner FAQs

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  What is a sea kayak? ^TOP
  The Paddling Partner is designed for single (K1)sea kayaks with stern hatches. Sea kayaks are generally 16 to19ft. long and 20 to 24ins. wide(beam) with fore and aft bulkheads(walls) creating air tight compartments which I call hatches. These compartments are covered with watertight hatch covers. Technically the hatch is the opening not the compartment.
 
  What is the Paddling Partner™? ^TOP
  The Paddling Partner™ is a ballast system for single sea kayaks designed to fit in the hatches only.  After 5 years of research and design, the Paddling Partner™ was created to provide additional stability to the kayak.
 
  How does the Paddling Partner™ work? ^TOP
  The Paddling Partner™ utilizes custom made parts designed to fit together to provide an assembly to hold up to 9 1/2 lbs. in weight that can be securely adhered to the bottom of the day hatch or the stern hatch.  Once the assembly is installed, it’s designed to stay in place even during rolls.  But, the beauty of it is that the weight is also portable.
 
  Is any assembly required? ^TOP
  Yes, the Paddling Partner™ comes with a full instruction brochure.  You must carefully follow these instructions to assemble the Paddling Partner™ correctly.  The following parts are needed for assembly: Base Mount, Canister and cap, End Caps, Center Post pad, Locking Rod, and the Paddling Partner ruler.
 
  Is the inventor a kayaker? ^TOP
  Yes, the inventor, Carl Vopal, has been kayaking for about six years.  He is an average kayaker always looking for ways to improve his kayaking skills.  He’s invented a product that can be used by novice and expert kayakers alike.
 
  Why can’t I just order one of the components rather than the whole package? ^TOP
  The Paddling Partner™ is designed to work as an integrated unit.  Each part was custom-designed to interact with the other parts.  Since this is a product that enhances the stability of your boat and is therefore, a product designed to enhance safety, it is critical that you follow instructions exactly as they are presented.
 
  Will the Paddling Partner™ fit my boat? ^TOP
  The Paddling Partner™ may not fit all single sea kayaks.  There are two tests to be performed after the installation is complete. The first test is on land and the second on water, without the kayaker. If either test fails we ask that you do not use the ballast system and return the product. Please read the install directions carefully.
 
  How long will this product last? ^TOP
  That depends on the weather environment, saltwater and usage. If you notice, after time, that the Base Mount is not fitting securely we recommend that you purchase a replacement.
 
  What if I am not satisfied with my Paddling Partner™? ^TOP
 

During the first 30 days from date of delivery, if you are not satisfied with the Paddling Partner™, your purchase price will be refunded.  To be eligible, the entire package must be returned along with the receipt of purchase.  .  Additional parts purchased after the purchase of the initial unit are not refundable.  All shipping charges for the returns are the responsibility of the buyer. 

Return Address
(Mail UPS Only)
Balance Solutions, LLC
3900 W. Brown Deer Rd., Ste. A, PMB 181
Milwaukee, WI  53209-1220

 
  What if the Paddling Partner™ does not fit in my boat? ^TOP
 

If you feel Paddling Partner™ does not hold securely, we recommend you return the product for a full   refund.  If the product does not pass either the Land or Water Test please return the product and the purchase price will be refunded. The procuct must be returned returned within 30 days from he delivery date to be eligible for a refund. Shipping charges are the responsibility of the buyer.

Return Address
(Mail UPS Only)
Balance Solutions, LLC
3900 W. Brown Deer Rd. Ste. A, PMB 181
Milwaukee, WI  53209-1220

 
  If the Canister is designed to hold 9 1/2 lbs. what is the best material to use? ^TOP
  Steel BBs work well. The Canister, filled with standard size steel BBs (4.5mm) weighs approximately 9 1/2lbs. Most steel BBs are copper coated and the copper color bleeds when they get wet. Wet sand and gravel work but only have half the weight of BBs. The maximum fill weight for the Canister is 9 1/2 lbs.
 
  Where should the canister be located? ^TOP
  The Canister should be placed immediately behind the kayaker in the day/stern hatch. The Paddling Partner should not be used in the cockpit. Please see installation instructions.
 
  Can an additional Canister be used? ^TOP
  Yes, if the boat is long enough so the trim is not adversly affected. In windy conditions,I sometimes use an additional half full Canister in the stern hatch next to the bulkhead. The full Canister is in the day hatch. If two Canisters are used be aware that T-rescues may be more difficult.
 
  Is glue needed to install the Paddling Partner? ^TOP
  Glue should never be used. All the Parts of the Paddling Partner can be removed from the kayak within a few minutes.
 
  Paddling Partner's Disclaimer. ^TOP
 

You must read and agree with the disclaimer before purchasing.

 
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