I've repaired more inner tubes with patches than I can remember !! One or two have failed but 99% have stayed on for 1000's of miles of no problem riding..

Right, me and my mate James are in Tanzania and suddenly (as if by magic), all our patches are falling off as are our repairs !

We have repaired the same holes time and time again. (6 flats in 24 hours in the baking heat is NO fun I can tell you).

The patches just wont stay on the tube... I have used three different brands of patches, glue etc. The same stuff I use at home with no issues...

Any ideas ??????

What I do to repair is.........

1. Thoroughly clean the contact area. Scrape away any old glue etc. Roughen it up with sandpaper etc.

2. Apply rubber solution to patch area and allow to go tacky for about 30-60 seconds.

3. Press on patch and apply pressure, working in the patch.

4. Waiting 5-10 mins.

The patch will hold on for a couple of hours or a hundred miles then start leaking and sometimes fall off.

I just don't get it !!! All I can think of is that it's the heat but my repairs lasted in 49c Sudan !! Can anyone think of a flaw in my practice or have any other info ?

I know patches are only meant to be a temp repair but on our trip, one spare tube is a luxury (and they have holes in too).

Cheers in advance, Ted

__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.