Cadet 240 Aero - Boat ZODIAC - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Inflatable Boat
Brand	Zodiac
Model	Cadet 240 Aero
Length	2.40 m (7.9 ft)
Beam (Width)	1.20 m (3.9 ft) approx.
Weight	Approx. 25 kg (55 lb)
Maximum Capacity	Not specified; typical for size: 2-3 persons
Tube Material	Heavy-duty PVC fabric
Floor Material	H2P Inflatable floor with integrated keel
Maximum Pressure (Buoyancy Tube)	240 mbar (3.48 psi)
Maximum Pressure (Floor)	800 mbar (11.3 psi)
Inflation System	High-pressure foot pump included
Valves	Standard and semi-recessed (Easy Push) valves
Included Equipment	2 reinforced aluminum oars, removable wooden seat, carry bag, repair kit, foot pump, fuel tank strap
Optional Accessories	Transport wheels, boarding ladder, lifting rings, pressure indicator
Assembly	Manual inflation and installation of floor, seat, and oars
Safety Precautions	Read manual; avoid overinflation; adjust pressure for temperature changes; never use compressor
Maintenance	Rinse with fresh water; dry thoroughly; deflate and fold for storage
Storage	Fold carefully and store in carry bag; keep away from sharp objects
Operating Environment	Fresh or salt water; avoid extreme temperatures
Warranty	Refer to dealer or manufacturer

Frequently Asked Questions - Cadet 240 Aero ZODIAC

How do I inflate the boat correctly?

First, activate all valves to inflation position. Inflate the H2P floor to 800 mbar (11.3 psi) using the foot pump in position A then B. Then inflate the main buoyancy tube to 240 mbar (3.48 psi) using only position A. Never use position B for the tube or keel.

What is the recommended pressure for the buoyancy tube and floor?

The buoyancy tube and keel require 240 mbar (3.48 psi). The H2P inflatable floor requires 800 mbar (11.3 psi). Use a pressure indicator for accuracy.

How do I deflate and fold the boat?

Open valves to deflation position. Deflate floor first (hold valve insert to prevent ejection). Remove stowage box if equipped. Fold sides inward, then fold cones onto transom, and finally fold the boat as shown in the manual. Store in carry bag.

Can I use a compressor or compressed air to inflate?

No, never use a compressor or compressed air bottle. Only use the provided high-pressure foot pump. Compressed air can overinflate and damage the boat.

How do I install the removable wooden seat?

Install the seat before the boat is fully inflated. It slides onto brackets or attaches via straps. Refer to the manual for exact placement.

What should I do if the boat loses pressure due to temperature changes?

Temperature changes affect internal pressure. If pressure drops (e.g., cold water), re-inflate to recommended level. If pressure rises (e.g., hot sun), deflate slightly. Always maintain between 220 and 270 mbar for tubes.

How do I clean and maintain the boat?

Deflate boat and floor, then partially re-inflate. Rinse with fresh water, raise bow to drain water and debris. Dry thoroughly before storage. Do not separate keel from floor on Acti-V models.

What is the H2P inflatable floor?

H2P is a high-pressure inflatable floor that provides rigidity and a flat walking surface. It inflates to 800 mbar and integrates with the keel for stability.

How do I adjust the valves for inflation or deflation?

Standard valves: unscrew cap, pull up valve insert for inflation; push down for deflation. Semi-recessed/Easy Push valves: push and turn a quarter turn for inflation position (diaphragm closed) or deflation position (diaphragm open).

What does the repair kit include and how to use it?

The repair kit typically includes patches and adhesive. For a puncture, clean and dry area, apply adhesive, press patch firmly, and allow to cure per instructions. For major damage, consult a professional.

USER MANUAL Cadet 240 Aero ZODIAC

● CAREFULLY READ THIS MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING YOUR BOAT.
- THIS OWNER'S MANUAL IS IN TWO VOLUMES THAT MUST BE KEPT TOGETHER.

NOTICE:

THE OWNER'S MANUAL IS IN TWO VOLUMES:

- VOLUME 1

DEALS WITH OPERATING PRECAUTIONS AND SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS THAT MUST BE OBSERVED.

- VOLUME 2

DEALS WITH TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE OF THE BOAT AND ITS EQUIPMENT.

VOLUME 2

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE

ZODIAC

CADET AERO

240 AERO - 260 AERO

CADET FAST ROLLER ACTI-V

CFR 285 ACTI-V - CFR 325 ACTI-V

CADET FAST ROLLER ACTI-V INT'L

CFR 360 ACTI-V INT'L

CONTENTS

	Page	Page
⇒Assembly procedure	2	⇒Pressure	7
⇒Check on unpacking	2	⇒Assembly of equipment	8
⇒Assembly	3-4	⇒Deflation - folding the boat	9
⇒Inflation system 5
⇒Inflation	6	⇒General description	I - VI

ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE

We recommend that you follow the specific order of the assembly procedure. Proceed step by step and refer to the corresponding pages.

PROCEDURE PAGE SECTION
1. inventory the elements composing your boat, and learn how to recognise them	2	CHECK ON UNPACKING
	I - V	DESCRIPTION
2. Install the stowage box (Model Int’L only)	3	ASSEMBLY
3. activate valves into inflating position	5	INFLATION SYSTEM
4. install the H2P floor in the boat	4	ASSEMBLY
5. Begin inflation of the boat. (not completely)	6	INFLATION
6. Inflate the H2P floor to correct pressure	6	INFLATION / PRESSURE
7. Install the seat 8		ASSEMBLY OF EQUIPMENT
8. finish inflation of the boat to the correct pressure	6- 7	INFLATION / PRESSURE
9. Install the oars 8		ASSEMBLY OF EQUIPMENT

CHECK ON UNPACKING

DO NOT USE A SHARP TOOL

The pack must contain: 1 buoyancy tube +

CADET	Aero240	Aero260	CFR285 acti-v	CFR325 acti-v	CFR360 acti-v – Int’L
Inflatable floorboard H2P + keel	X	X
Acti-V floorboard (built-in keel)					X
Repair kit	X	X	X	X	X
Owner’s manual *	X	X	X	X	X

Standard equipment
Removable wooden seat	X	X	X	X	X
Carry bag	X	X	X	X	X
Reinforced aluminium oar	2	2	2	2	2
Fuel tank strap	X	X	X	X	X
High pressure foot pump	X	X	X	X	X
Stowage box Int'L (with bag)					X

* 2 volumes

You can equip your boat with many optional accessories (transportation wheels, boarding ladder, lifting rings etc.). Ask your dealer to advise you.

BOAT ASSEMBLY

CHOOSE A SMOOTH, CLEAN SURFACE.

IF THE BUOYANCY TUBE WAS STORED AT A TEMPERATURE BELOW 0°C / 32°F, LEAVE IT AT 20°C / 68°F FOR 12 HOURS BEFORE UNFOLDING.

INSTALLING THE REMOVABLE RECESSED STOWAGE BOX (INT'L SYSTEM ONLY).

THE STOWAGE BOX MUST BE INSTALLED ON ITS FLANGE BEFORE INFLATING THE MAIN BUOYANCY TUBE.

IF THE TUBE IS INFLATED WITHOUT THE BOX, THE POCKET PROVIDING SEALING INTEGRITY MAY BE DAMAGED.

TO LOCK THE BOX ON ITS FLANGE, INSERT THE BOX LUGS INTO THE CORRESPONDING SOCKETS ON THE FLANGE.

CAUTION THERE IS A PREFERENTIAL POSITION (LOCK SLOT TOWARDS THE INSIDE AND IN THE BOAT'S LONGITUDINAL CENTERLINE) TO ALLOW THE BOX TO BE TURNED TO ITS LOCKED POSITION.

CAUTION:

THE BOAT MUST BE DEFLATED FOR THE INSTALLATION

THE BOAT MUST NEVER BE INFLATED WITHOUT THE BOX BEING INSTALLED.

1- Insert the box into the buoyancy tube flange.
The lock closing slot must be in the boat's longitudinal centerline and towards the inside of the deck
2- Lock the box by turning it through a 1/6th of a turn in the clockwise direction.
3- Make sure that the box is properly locked and fully home.
You can then inflate the boat
4- Always use the key to open or close.

REMOVING THE REMOVABLE RECESSED STOWAGE BOX.

IT IS ESSENTIAL TO DEFLATE THE BOAT (ZERO PRESSURE) BEFORE REMOVING THE REMOVABLE BOX.

TO FOLD THE BOAT AFTER DEFLATING IT, FIRST REMOVE THE REMOVABLE BOX (following the assembly procedure in the reverse order).

ASSEMBLY

Choose a smooth and clean surface.

IF THE BUOYANCY TUBE WAS STORED AT A TEMPERATURE BELOW 0°C / 32°F, LEAVE IT AT 20°C / 68°F FOR 12 HOURS BEFORE UNFOLDING.

THE H2P INFLATABLE FLOOR:

H2P INFLATABLE FLOOR DEFLATED

Your boat is delivered with the inflatable floor and its keel already assembled.

Cadet fast roller Acti-V - Air floor Inflating procedure:

• Before inflating, open out the boat and position the keel on the central band of the bottom and on the floorboard axis (centered between the positioning pins).
• FIRST inflate the keel-floorboard assembly to its rated pressure.
• Check that the keel inflated perpendicular to the floorboard and that it is still positioned on the central band of the bottom (otherwise, reposition).
• Inflate the main buoyancy tube.
• Press the floorboard down around the edges to fit it into the hollow of the angle.

MAINTENANCE / DISMANTLE OF THE H2P INFLATABLE FLOOR

We recommend that you leave the H2P floor in the boat when folding.

To clean perfectly the boat proceed as follow :

Deflate the boat and the floor.

inflate again the boat a little.

Wash off with clear water, then raise the boat's nose to evacuate water and sand or rubbish.

Do not separate the keel from the floor nor from the buttom.

INFLATION SYSTEM

THE HIGH PRESSURE FOOT-PUMP

A

MAX PRESSURE 0,3 bar (4,4 psi)

B

MAX PRESSURE 1,0 bar (14,7 psi)

A

C

Position A

The pump has maximum flow but low pressure: this position is used to give shape rapidly to all inflatable parts of the boat.

Position B

The flow is inferior to position A, but provides pressure that is superior, with the same effort.

Position C

To deflate. Insert the tube as indicated in figure C and pump normally.

THE STANDARD VALVES

(1) cap (2) valve insert (3) base

To activate the standard valves into INFLATION position:

• Free the valve insert from its protection.
- Unscrew the valve cap.
- Screw the valve support onto its base (screw it tight but without exaggeration, not to deteriorate the screw thread) and check that the valve cap stays accessible.

TO DEFLATE:

Unscrew the valve support from its base

THE SEMI-RECESSED VALVES

To activate the valves:		Inflation position	Deflation position
	press the push-in stem a quarter of a turn	diaphragm closed, the inner button springs upwards	diaphragm open, the inner button goes down
NOTICE:	TO SCREW OR UNSCREW THE VALVE CAPS, TURN WITHOUT PRESSING OR FORCING (THIS COULD UNSCREW THE INNER VALVE SYSTEM).

NOTICE:

THE VALVES « EASY – PUSH ».

To change the position:	Inflation position	Deflation position
Push / Push	diaphragm closed, the inner button springs upwards	diaphragm open, the inner button goes down

INFLATION

Activate all valves into inflation position.

Fit the hose to the foot-pump.

To inflate your boat properly, the bottom side of the foot-pump must rest on a flat ground. Pump evenly to inflate rapidly.

DO NOT USE A COMPRESSOR OR A BOTTLE OF COMPRESSED AIR

A - INFLATE THE FLOOR (AERO) OR THE ACTI-V FLOORBOARD / KEEL ASSEMBLY

1. Activate the valve into inflating position.
2. Inflate in position A (cap inserted) until it becomes difficult to operate.
3. Finish inflation in position B (cap removed) until you reach correct pressure (800 mb–11.3 PSI)

B - INFLATE THE MAIN BUOYANCY TUBE

MAXIMUM PRESSURE IN THE MAIN BUOYANCY TUBE: 240 MBARS (3.48 PSI) NEVER USE POSITION B TO INFLATE THE MAIN TUBE OR THE KEEL : THERE WOULD BE A RISK OF BURST.

1. Insert the pump hose end piece (add to the semi-recessed valve the correct connecting tip).
2. Inflate the main buoyancy tube and the keel (in position A - cap inserted) until it becomes difficult to operate.(correct pressure = 240 mb / 3.48 PSI), reefer to PRESSURE section making sure that each compartment is equal. When correctly inflated, the compartments bulkheads are not visible.

NEVER INFLATE A COMPARTMENT TO FULL PRESSURE IF OTHER COMPARTMENTS ARE TOTALLY DEFLATED

1

2

INFLATE THE KEEL (AERO RANGE only)

- Once the H2P floorboard is installed, inflate the keel (240 mb).

Inflation is over: fit the valve caps tight (clockwise).

NOTICE :

A slight air-leak before screwing the valve caps is normal.ONLY THE VALVE CAPS CAN ENSURE FINAL AIR TIGHTNESS.

PRESSURE

The correct pressure for the buoyancy tube and the AirLite keel is 240 mb / 3,48 PSI, and 800 mb / 11,3 PSI for the H2P inflatable floor.

If your boat is not equipped with an ACCESS pressure indicator, we recommend that you purchase one from your Dealer. This will permit a quick and efficient control of the pressure during inflation. Without a pressure indicator, stop inflating when the foot-pump gets difficult to operate, and the boat is « hard » (you should not be able to bend the cone ends).

Ambient temperature of air and water Ambient have an effect on the boat's internal +1°C / +1,8°F pressure -1°C / -1,8°F -4 mb / 0,06 PSI	int temperature tubes' internal pressure

Therefore, it is important to anticipate:

Because of temperature variations (especially when this variation is important between the beginning and the end of the day, in hot areas) check and adjust the pressure in the inflated compartments by inflating or deflating. Be sure that pressure remains within the recommended pressure, between 220 mb / 3,10 PSI and 270 mb / 3,85 PSI.

RISK OF UNDERPRESSURE

EXAMPLE: Your boat is in direct sunlight on the beach (temperature =50°C/122°F) at recommended pressure (240 mb/3,48 PSI). after putting it in the colder water (temperature =20°C/68°F), the internal temperature and pressure of the tubes will both drop (up to 120 mb/1,7 PSI) and YOU WILL HAVE TO INFLATE AGAIN until you regain the lost pressure due to the difference in temperatures. Therefore, a loss of pressure, at the end of the day when ambient temperature drops, is perfectly normal.

NOTICE :

Proper inflation is critical to the performance of the boat. It is the pressure in the tubes that gives your boat the necessary rigidity to perform well. Under-inflation causes improper flexing of the tubes which will result in stress and chafe

RISK OF OVERPRESSURE

EXAMPLE: Your boat is inflated to the recommended pressure (240 mb/3,48 PSI) at the beginning of the day (low ambient temperature =10°C/50°F). Later in the day, your boat is in direct sunlight on the beach or on a yacht's deck (temperature =50°C/122°F). Internal temperature of all inflated compartments can then increase and reach up to 70°C/158°F (especially for dark-coloured tubes). The consequence will be a doubling of previous pressure (480 mb/6,8 PSI). YOU WILL THEN HAVE TO DEFLATE until you reach the recommended pressure.

WHEN YOUR BOAT IS OVER INFLATED, PRESSURE BECOMES TOO STRONG FOR THE INFLATABLE STRUCTURE, AND COULD CAUSE A BREAK IN THE FABRIC ASSEMBLY

IN CASE OF OVERPRESSURE

STANDARD VALVE (A):

Free some air by pushing on the diaphragm (1) with a blunt object.

Beware not to fold down the diaphragm.

SEMI-RECESSED OR "EASY PUSH" VALVE (B):

Deflate by pressing the spring loaded button.

ASSEMBLY OF STANDARD EQUIPMENT

TO ASSEMBLE AND INSTALL THE OARS:

THE REMOVABLE SEAT

Install the seat before the boat is totally inflated.

DEFLATING / FOLDING THE BOAT

We recommend that you leave the H2P floor in the boat when folding. To clean perfectly the boat proceed as follow:

- Deflate the boat and the floor; then inflate again the boat a little.

- Wash off with clear water, and then raise the boat's nose to evacuate water and sand or rubbish.

Acti- V models : do not separate the keel from the floor nor from the buttom.

1. Deflate the boat (remember to hold the valve insert on the H2P inflatable floor so that it doesn't fly off) and remove the stowage box on Int'l models.
2. Replace the valve protections.
3. Remove oars and equipment.
4. Empty the boat of all water and sand by opening the self-bailers, dry it.
5. Fold in the 2 sides of the main buoyancy tube, fold the cones onto the transom (A), then fold the boat as show on figure B and C. Start again if you feel there is still some air left in the tubes.

CAUTION

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO FOLD THE ANTI-SKIDDING FINS, YOU COULD DETACH THEM FROM THE FLOOR

Stow the boat in its bag as follows (D):

. Stow the boat folded on its bag open (back side of the bag visible).
. Position the oars dismantled on top
. Close the bag and fasten the two front straps.
. Tight the side ropes (make sure that all equipment stays inside).

. To finish, store the foot-pump in the front pocket.