realplayer said...
I usually only put in 7 PSI in as I thought over inflating could contribute. I sometimes put less in to be safe.. I also clip the struts off but they tend to unclip if the kite hits the water..
Thats probably your problem. Strange as it may seem a tighter kite will put less pressure on the valves when you crash it than an under-inflated kite simply because the air has less room to move.
You will also get way better response if you pump up closer to 9 than 7. 7 doesnt cut it on most newer model kites. Pump till you cant pump no more. There is no-way you can overinflate them. If they are about to pop better it happens on the beach.
You could also try dunking the cap in boiling water then inserting a valve nozzle - cut so that as you push it into the cap the cap has to stretch. Leave it for a few minutes then dunk the cap & nozzle into cold water. This will expand the cap for a tighter fit.