How to test for leaks

I've copied this over from our Facebook site. It is a common problem and it seemed best to copy it over here rather than have it just "disappear" over there.

Hi guys I've got my hands on an eden trafalgar and it all seems to be functioning well after having to change some servos and receiver and a few other bits however I'm finding that one of the sections of the pressure hull seems to be leaking not 100% sure where leak is. I also read that I should be able to put a small amount of pressure into the hull through air valve which mine doesn't have. Is it important to get pressure in? I'm guessing it's to try and help maintain the seal? Does anyone know if I can buy replacement seals for the pressure hull or is this a make myself job?

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David Forrest I find that putting a low air pressure on the sub from an inflated balloon is an invaluable leak test. Connect the balloon and dunk in pond or bath (home test tank.) bubble stream indicates leak. Even without the dunk an inflated balloon after 20 minutes (say) shows sub seals are OK. If you don't have a connection built in to your model, drill and tap or just glue a "nipple" somewhere on the sub - only needs a small hole. (I can't see that positive air pressure is important other than for leak testing - 1 bar internal pressure would only protect against less than 10m depth.)

August 10 at 2:19pm · Like · 1
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Deep Diver When I did not have a test tank I use some soapy water on the joints

August 10 at 2:49pm · Edited · Like · 1
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Steve Juden Soapy water around the seals, joints and any connections where wires, cables or push-rods exit the hull should show a leak, (a gas fitters test)

August 10 at 3:51pm · Like · 1
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Paul Cook Im sure if you have a leak around a seal and its down to the seal, Chris Cloke at Sheerline will help you out for a couple of £'s maybe.

Yesterday at 8:04am · Like
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James Kislingbury Thanks guys, I've done a mixture and ended up using a bit of vaseline and the seal is absolutely great. I will give Chris a call and try and get some replacement seals for the long term. Thanks for advice.

15 hrs · Like