Owner's manual | Aqua Lung Black Diamond Owner`s manual

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OWNER’S MANUAL

2 Black Diamond Owner’s Manual

CONTENTS

SAFETY INFORMATION ..................................................... 3

General Precautions & Warnings ...................................................3

BASIC SETUP ..................................................................... 5

Attaching the LP Hose to the First-Stage............................................... 5

Securing the BC to the Cylinder............................................................. 6

Threading the Cylinder Band ................................................................. 7

Double Cylinder Setup ........................................................................... 8

ADJUSTING THE FIT .......................................................... 9

Adjusting the Cummerbund Length........................................................ 9

Adjusting the Chest Strap .................................................................... 10

WEIGHT INTEGRATION FEATURES ................................11

Weight System - Setup & Installation .........................................11

Loading the Weight Pouches................................................................ 11

SureLock™ Weight Pouch Installation ................................................. 13

Releasing the SureLock™ Weight Pouches................................14

Non-Releasable Weight .................................................................15

DONNING AND ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES .............. 16

INFLATION METHODS...................................................... 17

Oral Inflation......................................................................................... 17

Power Inflation...................................................................................... 17

DEFLATION METHODS .................................................... 18

Deflation via Oral Inflator...................................................................... 18

Deflation via Dual Exhaust Valve ......................................................... 18

Overpressure Relieve (OPR)/ Dump Valve .......................................... 19

SPECIAL FEATURES........................................................ 20

Knife Attachment.................................................................................. 20

Pockets................................................................................................. 20

PRE-DIVE INSPECTION.................................................... 21

POST-DIVE CARE & MAINTENANCE .............................. 22

DEALER INSPECTION & SERVICE ................................. 23

WARRANTY INFORMATION............................................. 24

ANNUAL SERVICE & INSPECTION RECORD ................ 26

Black Diamond Owner’s Manual 3

2 Black Diamond Owner’s Manual Black Diamond Owner’s Manual 3

SAFETY INFORMATION

General Precautions & Warnings

Before using this buoyancy compensator (BC), you must receive instruction and certification in SCUBA diving and buoyancy control from a recognized training agency. Use of SCUBA equipment by uncertified or untrained persons is dangerous and can result in injury or death.

Read this owner’s manual completely before attempting to use your

BC, and become familiar with it first in a controlled environment such as a swimming pool, in order to weight yourself properly and to become comfortable with using its many features and adjustments.

Before every dive, perform a complete pre-dive inspection according to the procedure prescribed in this manual, to ensure that all components are functioning properly and no signs of damage or leaks are present. If you find that your BC is not functioning properly or is damaged, remove it from service until it can be repaired by an authorized Aqua

Lung/SeaQuest Dealer.

Your BC is not a lift bag. DO NOT use it to bring heavy objects to the surface. Doing so may cause permanent damage to the BC, and could also result in serious injury or death due to embolism or decompression sickness.

In an emergency such as an out of air situation or uncontrolled descent, it is important to remove and jettison weight immediately. DO

NOT depend solely on using your BC’s power inflator to lift you to the surface.

In the event of an uncontrolled, rapid ascent, it is important to immediately begin venting air from the BC. Continue venting air to slow your ascent rate if neutral buoyancy cannot be reestablished.

DO NOT inhale from your oral inflator. The BC may contain harmful contaminants or gasses, which could cause suffocation or injury.

Factory prescribed service for this BC must be performed at least once annually by a factory trained technician who is employed by an authorized Aqua Lung/SeaQuest Dealer. Annual service consists of a complete overhaul of the power inflator, and a general air leak inspection of the bladder and valve connections.

Disassembly, repair, or lubrication must not be attempted by persons who are not factory trained and authorized by Aqua Lung/SeaQuest.

Unauthorized service will render the warranty null and void.


WARNING: A buoyancy compensator (BC) is NOT a life jacket! It is not designed to provide face-up flotation in all situations, and therefore it does not meet U.S. Coast Guard regulations for a life preserver or personal flotation device

(PFD). If you become unconscious in the water without a buddy present to immediately give assistance, you may suffer serious injury or death from drowning.

Your buoyancy compensator is primarily designed to help you maintain neutral buoyancy while in a comfortably balanced, face-down swimming position underwater. It is also designed to provide you with flotation so that you can rest on the surface, but it is not designed to function as a life preserver or personal flotation device (PFD). In order to meet U.S.

Coast Guard regulations, a PFD must be designed so that it automatically rights you to a face-up position and holds your head out of the water on the surface. The design characteristics of a personal flotation device are therefore different from those of a buoyancy compensator.

The ability of any flotation device to float you in a face-up position can also be affected by other diving equipment you wear, including a cylinder, weight or exposure suit, and whether it can be inflated before you lose consciousness.

For this reason, it is important to always dive with a buddy, and maintain close proximity with them at all times. Do not depend on any flotation device to hold your face above the surface in the event that you are rendered unconscious in the water while diving.

WARNING: Although this manual provides some basic guidelines for certain buoyancy control techniques, it is not a substitute for training from a professional diving instructor. Failure to weight yourself properly may create a hazardous condition that could lead to serious injury or death. If you are unsure how to weight yourself in order to achieve optimum buoyancy underwater and on the surface, do not dive until you have obtained the necessary instruction from your diving instructor or an authorized Aqua Lung/

SeaQuest Dealer.

If you have any questions regarding your Buoyancy Compensator or these instructions, contact your local dealer or Aqua Lung/SeaQuest at

(760) 597-5000


4 Black Diamond Owner’s Manual Black Diamond Owner’s Manual

BASIC SETUP

F

Note: The terms “hook,” “loop,” and “hook & loop” are used throughout this manual. Hook & Loop is commonly known as Velcro®, which is a trademarked brand of hook & loop. Many of the BC’s components have hook & loop attachments, including the waistband, cylinder bands, and weight pouch flaps.

Aqua Lung/SeaQuest recommends that you bring your buoyancy compensator, together with your regulator, to your authorized dealer for the installation of the low pressure (LP) inflator hose and other accessories.

The retailer can also answer any questions you may have pertaining to the information in this manual. If it is not possible to return the BC with your regulator to your authorized dealer, you may install the LP quick disconnect inflator hose by carefully performing the steps in the following procedure.

Attaching the LP Hose to the First-Stage

Fig. 1

WARNING: DO NOT connect the inflator hose to a high pressure (HP) port (greater than 200 psi / 14 bar). This may cause the hose to burst when pressurized, which can result in serious injury. If you are unsure which regulator port is low pressure (LP) or high pressure (HP), consult your regulator owner’s manual or your dealer before attaching the hose.

1. Remove the inflator hose from the power inflator body by gripping the grooved sleeve over the quick disconnect coupling with your thumb and forefinger and sliding the sleeve back (Fig. 1).

Fig. 3

Fig. 2

2. Remove the port plug from a low pressure (LP) port on the regulator using an appropriately sized wrench (Fig. 2).

3. Check to ensure the O-ring is present and in good condition, and screw the threaded end of the hose into the port. Tighten to 40 inch-pounds (46 kg/cm) with a ⁹⁄₁₆” wrench (Fig. 3).

5


Securing the BC to the Cylinder

F

Note: BC cylinder bands adjust for all standard cylinder diameters:

6.9” (17.5 cm), 7.25” (18.5 cm), and 8.0” (20.3 cm). The cylinder bands are properly threaded to the buckles when the BC leaves the factory. If rethreading is necessary, follow the procedure in the next section,

“Threading the Cylinder Band.”

Remove band from outer slot

1. Remove the free end of the cylinder band from outer slot on the buckle (Fig. 4).

2. Wet the cylinder band and then slide it over the cylinder so that the BC is at the desired position in relation to the cylinder valve. Make sure the cylinder valve air outlet is facing the back of the BC. While holding the cylinder secure, pull the free end of the cylinder band until there is a very tight fit between the pack and the cylinder (Fig. 5).

3. Close the buckle halfway to hold the cylinder band taut (Fig. 6a), and thread the free end of the band through the open slot in the end of the buckle (Fig. 6b).

4. Pull the cam buckle closed so that it lies flat against the cylinder. Secure the end of the cylinder band with the hook & loop attachment.

Fig. 4

Fig. 5 a.

Close buckle halfway

5. Test the tightness by pushing/pulling the back frame and cradle. Tighten and secure the weight pocket strap.

b.

Insert band into open slot

Fig. 6

WARNING: The cylinder band will initially stretch as it becomes wet. Always wet the band before making the final adjustment; apply enough tension to ensure that the cylinder is completely secure. Test this connection before every dive. If the cylinder slips free from the BC during the dive, you may lose your air supply, which could lead to serious injury or death.



Threading the Cylinder Band

Step 1. Firmly grasp the metal D-ring with your left hand.

Step 2. While firmly holding the metal

D-ring, rotate the buckle back towards the webbing. The buckle should form and angle with the metal D-ring as shown in the top view.

Step 3. Insert band through the metal D-ring, then through the middle slot.

TOP VIEW

7

Step 4. Insert band through the inside slot.

Step 5. Insert band through the outer slot.

F

NOTE: This final threading step is done when the BC is secured to the cylinder (refer to step 3, figure 6 on previous page). Close the buckle halfway to prevent the webbing from slipping and thread the free end of the band through the open slot in the end of the buckle.


Double Cylinder Setup

The Tank Band Kit for Double Cylinders (P/N 427042) allows mounting of double cylinders to all sizes of the Black Diamond. Please see mounting instruction provided with the kit.

Before adapting your BC for use with double cylinders, it is important to compare the lift capacity of your particular BC size and model with the buoyancy specifications of the cylinders, the amount of weight you will carry, and the type of exposure suit you will wear. When fully charged and worn together as doubles, some cylinders may create enough negative buoyancy to counteract the amount of lift your BC can provide. At depth, this can lead to a dangerous situation if your wetsuit becomes compressed and you can no longer achieve positive buoyancy by jettisoning weight.

Additionally, the structure of the back pack will not support the weight of an oversized double cylinder set up. The BC may only be used with standard aluminum (maximum 80 cf/10 litre) or steel (maximum 100 cf,

3,500 psi) tanks. High volume, low pressure steel tanks can be especially hazardous when worn as doubles, due to their weight and buoyancy characteristics.

WARNING: The use of oversized double setups can lead to a dangerous situation underwater, including your inability to achieve positive buoyancy, or structural failure of the backpack. Such an event while diving may separate you from your primary air source, and could lead to serious injury or death.



ADJUSTING THE FIT

The Black Diamond has two adjustments that allow you to customize the fit: the length of the waistband, and position of the chest strap. The procedures for making these adjustments are outlined below. It is important to take into account the exposure suit you will be wearing when making adjustments. For example, if you adjust the Black Diamond to fit over a

T-shirt or bathing suit, it will be too small when you put it on while wearing a 7mm wetsuit or a drysuit.

Adjusting the Waistband Length

The Black Diamond’s waistband consists of two separate sections which are each attached to the rear panel with two stainless steel nut and bolt combinations. There are three positions that allow you to lengthen or shorten the waistband, with the outer grommets being the longest setting. If necessary, the waistband can easily be remounted onto one of three grommeted attachment points by performing the following procedure:

1. Disconnect the chest strap buckle, shoulder strap buckles, waist strap buckle, and waistband.

2. To remove the bolts which fasten each section to the rear panel, hold the nut with a 3/8” box-end wrench and unscrew the bolt with a medium-sized phillips screwdriver (Fig. 7).

3. Align the grommet holes in the waistband with the holes in the panel. Insert the bolt through the front of the panel, through the waistband, and thread the nut onto the bolt from behind the waistband (Fig. 8). Hold the nut securely with a 3/8” wrench and tighten the bolt with a phillips screwdriver.

4. Don the BC over your exposure suit to check the fit.

Hold with

3/8” wrench

Nut behind waistband

Bolt goes thru front

9

Fig. 7 Fig. 8


Adjusting the Chest Strap

The chest strap fits across your sternum and keeps the two shoulders from slipping to the sides, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. Before donning the BC, loosen and disconnect the chest strap. After donning the BC, connect the chest strap and tighten by pulling on the free ends of the straps. The chest strap should feel comfortable across the chest; it should not be overtightened so that it feels restrictive. Once the shoulder straps are in position, adjust the shoulder strap length by pulling down on the adjustment D-rings until the BC fits comfortably.

The chest strap also has two vertical positions. To adjust, slide the strap

(up or down) across the small “ bumps” on the strap guides (Fig. 9).

UPPER POSITION

BUMPS

Fig. 9

Black Diamond Owner’s Manual

LOWER POSITION

11


WEIGHT INTEGRATION FEATURES

The Black Diamond features the SureLock™ (SL) weight system. With the SureLock™ system, weight pouches are secured with a mechanical locking mechanism, as opposed to a hook & loop attachment used on other models. The SureLock™ weight system either supplements or replaces a conventional weight belt. This unique feature allows you to quickly jettison either one or both of two weight pouches in the event of an emergency, thereby maintaining better control over your rate of ascent. The weight pouches can be easily reloaded into their respective holsters while you are wearing the BC. This makes the BC much easier to don than other weight-integrated BC’s that must be fully loaded with weight prior to donning.

It is very important to read the following instructions, and become thoroughly familiar with the correct methods for installing and releasing weight before you dive with your BC.

Weight System - Setup & Installation

The weight system features two interchangeable weight pouches which can be filled with either block weights or “soft weight” (pouches containing lead shot), in increments of 4 lbs./2 kg or less . For ease of operation, low-profile block weight is strongly recommended. Each weight pouch can hold a maximum of 16 lbs/7 kg (32 lbs/14.5 kg total).

Loading the Weight Pouches

Aqua Lung/SeaQuest recommends that each pouch is loaded with equal amounts of weight for optimum balance; this will prevent the tendency to roll to one side during the dive. Also, it is strongly recommended that each weight pouch is fully loaded with four separate blocks. For example, if you want to load a weight pouch with 12 pounds, use four separate 3-pound blocks.

1. If the weight pouches are installed in the BC, remove them by firmly

F pulling the release handle toward the center of the waistband .

Note: The weight pouches are specially pre-formed to fit the contour of your waist. Do not attempt to bend or straighten a pre-formed pouch.

11


2. Installing weight blocks into weight pouches.

The weight pouch has an upper and lower weight compartment. For optimum balance, it is important that the weight is loaded correctly in each compartment. Use the diagram below (Fig. 10) for proper weight placement. (This diagram is also sewn on the weight pouch flap.)

Top Top Top

Top Top Top

Top

Fig. 10

Lift up each pouch’s flap (Fig 11a), and lay it back over the handle

(Fig 11b). While holding the pouch fully open, insert the weight and then close the flap. Firmly run your hand over the flaps to securely seal the hook & loop (Fig 11c).

c a b

Fig. 11



SureLock™ Weight Pouch Installation

CAUTION: Aqua Lung/SeaQuest strongly recommends that you do not attempt to don your BC when it is fully loaded with weight. You may otherwise risk injury due to muscle strain or a temporary loss of balance.

The pouches are installed with the smooth panel (Fig. 12a) facing outward (pouch flap facing toward the BC). To install either pouch, slide the closed end of the pouch into the opening of the holster. Insert the male portion of the SureLock™ buckle (Fig. 12b) into the female receptacle

(Fig. 12c) on the BC until you can hear/feel it click into place .

13 c a b

Fig. 12


WARNING: Before every dive, make sure each weight pouch is secure in order to prevent the pouches from falling out.

Involuntary release of both weight pouches underwater can cause a sudden increase in buoyancy causing a rapid ascent, which could lead to serious injury or death due to arterial gas embolism, decompression sickness, or drowning.

Releasing the SureLock™ Weight Pouches

Unlike a weight belt that has only one release mechanism, each weight pouch is connected to the BC independently of the other and must be released accordingly. This provides you with the option of releasing one pouch at a time and maintaining better control of your ascent rate in an emergency.

In the event that you need to jettison weight, simply pull the release handle of each pouch towards the center of the waist buckle (Fig. 13). When the pouch is completely disengaged from its holster, hold it out and away from your body before dropping it.

Fig. 13

WARNING: Ensure that your weight pouches are not obstructed by any straps, lines, etc. DO NOT add weight to the BC’s accessory pockets, as this may interfere with the removal of the pouches in an emergency. Failure to ditch weight in an emergency may lead to serious injury or death due to drowning.

WARNING: To avoid injuring other divers, always look below you before dropping weight.

In addition to becoming familiar with the SureLock™ weight system yourself, it is very important to explain its function to your dive buddy so that he/she is equally familiar with it.



Non-Releasable Weight

To supplement the releasable weight, the Black Diamond is designed to carry non-releaseable weight in two fixed pockets located on each side of the BC, between the harness and air bladder. Each pocket can hold up to 5 lbs/2.3 kg (10 lbs/4.6 kg total).

To install weight into the non-releasable weight pockets, disconnect the flap buckle and open the hook & loop flap (Fig. 14). Slide in the weight block, resecure the hook & loop flap, fold the flap over the pocket, and reconnect the buckle (Fig. 15).

15

Fig. 14 Fig.15

The non-releasable weight pockets are designed to hold single rectangular weight blocks. Aqua Lung/SeaQuest strongly advises against using small bullet-shaped weights and shot weight.

Because the weight is non-releasable, it must not be used as your primary source of ballast. After filling the fixed pockets with weight, it is extremely important to check your buoyancy in the water while wearing the

BC attached to a fully charged cylinder and your exposure suit. While standing in chest-deep water, deflate the BC completely and check to ensure that you can easily achieve positive buoyancy by jettisoning your releasable weight.

WARNING: The non-releasable weight pockets are intended strictly for containing non-releasable weight, used in addition to releasable weight. Do not fill either pocket with weight unless you are certain you can achieve positive buoyancy at depth by releasing your weight pouches or weight belt while your BC is completely deflated.


DONNING & ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES

1. Remove the weight pouches from the BC.

2. Loosen and disconnect the chest buckle, waist buckle, and waistband.

3. Ensure that the swivel buckles on both torso straps are securely fastened. While firmly holding the torso strap where it connects to the BC lobe, fully extend each torso strap to its maximum length by pushing straight up on the slide buckle.

4. While your dive buddy lifts and holds the BC/cylinder behind you, place your arms through the BC torso straps as if you were putting on a jacket.

5. While your buddy continues to hold the cylinder, secure the waistband and connect the waist buckle. The weight of the cylinder should rest on the lumbar region (lower part) of your back.

6. Connect the chest strap buckle. Pull on the free ends of the strap to tighten. The chest strap should feel comfortable across the chest; it should not be overtightened so that it feels restrictive.

7. After your buddy has released the cylinder and the BC feels comfortably supported on your hips and shoulders, bend forward at the waist and adjust the torso straps to a comfortable length by pulling

F on the torso strap D-rings.

NOTE: Adjusting the shoulder straps too tightly will transfer the cylinder weight from the hips to the shoulders, restricting your arm movement and decreasing comfort.

8. If necessary, readjust the waist buckle so that is comfortably snug, but not restricting.



INFLATION METHODS

Oral Inflation

To orally inflate your BC, place your lips on the oral inflator mouthpiece (Fig. 16a) and exhale a small amount of air into the mouthpiece to purge any water that may still be in the housing. While continuing to exhale into the mouthpiece, depress the oral inflator button (Fig. 16b) to inflate the BC. Immediately after exhaling, release the oral inflator button to prevent air from escaping.

Power Inflation

For the power inflator to operate, the low pressure (LP) inflator hose must be connected. To connect the LP hose, grip the grooved sleeve at the connection fitting with your thumb and forefinger, and slide the sleeve back. Place the fitting over the quick disconnect plug (Fig. 16c), and firmly push inward while releasing the sleeve. Check to ensure that the hose is securely attached. After the hose is attached to the power inflator, pressurize the first-stage regulator by slowly opening the cylinder valve.

To inflate your BC with low pressure air, depress the power inflator button (Fig. 16d).

Do not hold the inflator button depressed continuously underwater, as this could cause you to become excessively buoyant. Instead, depress the button in short bursts until you become neutrally buoyant.

a

Fig. 16 d b c e

17


WARNING: Do not rely on the power inflator as the only means to inflate your BC. It is important to practice the technique for orally inflating your BC so that you are prepared for any type of malfunction or out of air situation that could render the power inflator inoperable. You may otherwise be unable to achieve positive buoyancy in an emergency, which could lead to serious injury or death.

DEFLATION METHODS

Throughout the course of a dive, it will be necessary to release air from the BC using one of the three methods described in the following instructions. Each method uses a valve that is in a different location. The method you choose at any time may depend on whether you are making your initial descent feet-first, head-first, or maintaining neutral buoyancy underwater. Always remember to utilize the valve that is at the highest point on the bladder, depending on your position in the water.

Deflation via Oral Inflator

To deflate the BC using the oral inflator, lift the Powerline inflator body to its highest possible position (above the head). Press the oral inflator button (Fig. 16b, previous page) to start venting air. This method is most effective on the surface when starting the initial descent.

Deflation via Dual Exhaust Valve

Inside the power inflator’s corrugated hose is a cable that attaches the power inflator to the dual valve at the top of the airway assembly (Fig

18e, previous page ). You can vent air from the BC by firmly pulling straight down on the power inflator, or on the Trim Grip ™ handle that is provided with the Air Source (refer to Air Source Manual).

This exhaust valve provides an effective and convenient way to vent air from the BC while in either an upright or facedown swimming position.

It also functions as an overpressure relief (OPR) valve that will open automatically to relieve air pressure inside the bladder when it reaches approximately 2.5 psi (.17 bar) over the surrounding water pressure. This feature is very critical for preventing stress or damage to the BC’s bladder.



Overpressure Relief (OPR)/Dump Valves

In addition to the overpressure relief (OPR) valve that is integrated into the dual valve, the Black Diamond has three other OPR/dump valves:

Two are located at the bottom of the air bladder on the left and right hand sides (Fig. 17a); the third is located on the right shoulder (Fig. 18a).

Their primary function is to relieve excess air pressure inside the bladder, but they can also be opened manually by pulling on the ball and cord assembly to quickly dump air (Fig. 17b & 18b). a a a

19 b

Fig.17

b

Fig. 18 b

To dump air as quickly as possible, always use the dump valve at the highest point in the water column. For example, the lower rear valve works best while making a head-first descent, or swimming in a facedown position; the dual valve works best when in an upright position.

CAUTION: The proper function of either overpressure relief valve is vital to prevent damage to the BC bladder. Unauthorized service or tampering may render these valves inoperable, and could cause the bladder to leak or burst. This type of damage is not repairable, and is not covered under warranty.

WARNING: Most training agencies recommend that you should descend in an upright, feet-first position, in order to maintain a slower and more controlled descent. This is especially true if you experience difficulty equalizing your ears, or if you are descending in low visibility conditions.

20

SPECIAL FEATURES

Knife Attachment

The Black Diamond has two grommet holes located on the left pocket flap. These holes are designed to accept many of the specialty knives available from Deep See

(Fig. 19). For information on available knife models, consult with your Aqua Lung/

SeaQuest/Deep See retailer. To attach the knife, refer to the instructions that come with the knife.

Pockets

The Black Diamond has three pockets:

1. A standard zippered pocket is located on the right side

(Fig. 20).

2. A small zippered pocket is located on the waistband, underneath the flap (Fig. 21).

3. An extendable pocket is located on the left side of the

BC. To extend the pocket, lift up on the flap, extend the pocket, and resecure the flap (Fig. 22). This pocket is excellent for dive lights.

Fig. 20

Fig. 21

Fig. 22

Black Diamond Owner’s Manual

Fig. 19

Fig. 19



PRE-DIVE INSPECTION

Before each use, the BC must be given a thorough visual inspection and functional test. NEVER dive with a BC that shows signs of damage to its bladder or valves until it has received a complete inspection and service from an authorized dealer.

Inspection Checklist:

1. Connect the power inflator to a source of clean, compressed air, via the LP quick disconnect hose. Depress and release the inflator button intermittently to ensure that the airflow is unobstructed, and that the airflow stops completely when the button is released.

2. Manually operate the overpressure relief (OPR) valves by pulling on the attached ball and cord to release air from inside the BC, and then fully inflate the BC until the OPR valve opens. Examine the operation of the OPR valves by repeatedly inflating the BC to ensure that they open to relieve excess pressure, yet close immediately afterward to allow the bladder to remain taut and fully inflated.

3. Check the function of the oral inflator button, dual exhaust valve, and overpressure relief/ manual dump valve (see Deflation Methods on page 20) to ensure a rapid and unobstructed exhaust from each valve. Fully inflate the BC once again, and disconnect the Power

Inflator from the compressed air supply and listen closely for any leaks.

WARNING: If you can hear any leaks, or if the bladder begins to deflate within 5-10 minutes, DO NOT attempt to use the BC until it has received service from an authorized dealer.

4. Make a final check of the cylinder band’s tension to ensure that it has not loosened due to stretching. Retighten if necessary.

5. Before entering the water, check both weight pouches to ensure that they are correctly fastened to the BC.

WARNING: Loss of the releasable weight pouches can occur if the SureLock™ buckle mechanism is not properly engaged. Involuntary release of both weight pouches can cause a sudden increase in buoyancy causing a rapid ascent, and could lead to serious injury or death due to arterial gas embolism, decompression sickness, or drowning.

21


POST DIVE CARE & MAINTENANCE

With proper care, your BC will provide many years of reliable service.

The following preventive maintenance must be performed to extend the life of your BC:

1. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and extreme heat. Nylon fabric can quickly fade when exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and extreme heat may damage the welded bladder seams.

2. Avoid repeated or prolonged use in heavily chlorinated water, which can cause the BC fabric to discolor and decay prematurely.

3. Do not allow the BC to chafe against any sharp objects or rough surfaces that could abrade or puncture the bladder. Do not set or drop heavy objects such as block weights on the BC.

4. Avoid any contact with oil, gasoline, aerosols, or chemical solvents.

5. To preserve the life of the bladder, rinse it inside and out with fresh water after every day of use, using the following procedure: a) Pressurize the power inflator with low pressure (LP) air via the

LP hose.

b) Using a garden hose, direct water through the oral inflator mouthpiece to flush the interior of the bladder, and then thoroughly rinse the exterior of the BC.

CAUTION: Before rinsing, ensure that the power inflator is pressurized with air. This will prevent debris and contaminants from entering the valve mechanism if the inflator button is accidentally depressed.

c) Completely drain the bladder of water, either through the oral inflator or through the overpressure relief valve.

d) Inflate the BC, and allow it to dry inside and out. Store the BC partially inflated, away from direct sunlight, and in a clean, dry area. Do not store the BC in an enclosed space, such as a car trunk, where temperatures may fall below 0ºF (-18ºC) or rise above 120ºF (49ºC).

6. Thoroughly rinse the SureLock™ weight release mechanism, including the female receptacle and male insert. Visually inspect both parts of the mechanism to make sure they are free of any debris

(sand, salt, silt, rocks, etc.) that could hinder the smooth operation of the SureLock™. Connect and release the SureLock™ mechanism several times to ensure proper operation.



DEALER INSPECTION & SERVICE

WARNING: DO NOT attempt to perform any disassembly or service of your BC. Service requiring disassembly must only be performed by a factory trained Aqua Lung/SeaQuest technician. To obtain service or repair, such as power inflator service or replacement of the bladder, see your local authorized dealer.

1. It cannot be assumed that the BC is in good working order on the basis that it has received little use since it was last serviced. Remember that prolonged or improper storage can still result in internal corrosion and/or deterioration of O-ring seals and valve springs, as well as bladder seam degradation.

2. It is imperative that you obtain prescribed dealer service for your

BC at least once a year from an authorized dealer, including a general air leak inspection and complete overhaul of the power inflator and OPR valve. Your BC may require this service more frequently, depending on the amount of use it receives and the environmental conditions it is used in.

3. If the BC is used for rental or training purposes in salt, chlorinated, or silted fresh water, it will require prescribed dealer service every three to six months. Use in chlorinated water will greatly accelerate the deterioration of most components, and require more frequent service.

4. DO NOT attempt to perform any disassembly or overhaul service of your BC. Doing so may cause the BC to dangerously malfunction, and will render the warranty null and void. All service must be performed by an authorized Aqua Lung/SeaQuest Dealer.

23

IT IS IMPORTANT TO OBTAIN PRESCRIBED DEALER SERVICE FOR

YOUR BC AT LEAST ONCE ANNUALLY, FROM AN AUTHORIZED

AQUA LUNG/SEAQUEST DEALER. YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY AND

THE MECHANICAL INTEGRITY OF YOUR BC DEPENDS ON IT.


WARRANTY INFORMATION

NOTE: To validate your warranty, please complete and return the enclosed warranty registration card within 15 days of purchase. You may also register online at www.aqualung.com, or www.sea-quest.com.

All warranty transactions must be accompanied by proof of original purchase from an authorized Aqua Lung/SeaQuest Dealer. Be sure to save your sales receipt, and present it whenever returning your BC for warranty service.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Warranty coverage on buoyancy compensators covers the product throughout its useful life, subject to the conditions listed below and utilizes a pro-rated replacement policy*.

Aqua Lung America warrants to the original purchaser for the useful life of the product, from the date of purchase, that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship, provided that it receives normal use, proper care and prescribed dealer service subject to the limitations listed below. The Limited Lifetime Warranty is extended only to the original purchaser for purchases made from an Authorized Aqualung America Dealer and is not transferable. This warranty is limited to repair or replacement only at the discretion of

Aqua Lung America.

Limitations

Warranty coverage does not extend to damages caused by improper use, improper maintenance, neglect, unauthorized repairs, modifications, accidents, fire, casualty or normal wear and aging.

Cosmetic damage(s), such as scratches, nicks and fraying are not covered under warranty except when the product is new, out of the original packaging.

This warranty does not extend to equipment used for rental, commercial or military purposes.

This warranty covers products purchased in the USA. For warranties that may apply elsewhere, please contact your local representative.

*Product Replacement on a Pro-Rated Basis

Products under the Limited Lifetime Warranty that malfunction due to material or manufacturer defects that have also had a significant amount of use will be replaced on a pro-rated basis. Pro-rating will be determined by a percentage factor based on the condition of the product and how long the product was used prior to the warranty claim. This can be useful to evaluate Limited Lifetime Warranty claims since the warranty period is for the “useful life of the product” and not a set length of time. The following guidelines should be used in determining what pro-rated percentage will be used.

Note: This can be a subjective evaluation. Fair and reasonable judgment should be used.

Pro-rated values for products sold at retail Aqua Lung Pays Customer Pays

Like new and less than 2 years old

Slightly used and less than 5 years old

Very used and/or more than 5 years old

Worn out

100%

75%

50%

0%

0%

25%

50%

100%



WARNING: It is dangerous for untrained and uncertified persons to use the equipment covered by this warranty. Therefore, use of this equipment by an untrained person renders any and all warranties null and void. Use of

SCUBA equipment by anyone who is not a trained and certified diver, or receiving training under the supervision of an instructor, could lead to serious injury or death.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have rights which vary from state to state and country to country.

AQUA LUNG/SEAQUEST DISCLAIMS AND EXCLUDES ANY LIABILITY FOR INCIDEN-

TAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. SOME STATES IN THE U.S. AND CERTAIN FOR-

EIGN COUNTRIES DO NOT ALLOW EXCLUSIONS OR LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY FOR

INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THIS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

25


Annual Service & Inspection Record

Serial #

Purchase Date

Store Name

Note: Serial number is located under inflator hold-down

Date Dealer Name City, State Tech Initials


26 Black Diamond Owner’s Manual Black Diamond Owner’s Manual 27

OWNER’S MANUAL

2340 Cousteau Court . Vista . CA . 92081

©2004 Aqua Lung America

Literature PN 18313 Rev. 6/2004

R

Owner's manual | Aqua Lung Black Diamond Owner`s manual

OWNER’S MANUAL

CONTENTS

SAFETY INFORMATION

General Precautions & Warnings

BASIC SETUP

Attaching the LP Hose to the First-Stage

Securing the BC to the Cylinder

Threading the Cylinder Band

Double Cylinder Setup

ADJUSTING THE FIT

Adjusting the Waistband Length

Adjusting the Chest Strap

WEIGHT INTEGRATION FEATURES

Weight System - Setup & Installation

Loading the Weight Pouches

SureLock™ Weight Pouch Installation

Releasing the SureLock™ Weight Pouches

Non-Releasable Weight

DONNING & ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES

INFLATION METHODS

Oral Inflation

Power Inflation

DEFLATION METHODS

Deflation via Oral Inflator

Deflation via Dual Exhaust Valve

Overpressure Relief (OPR)/Dump Valves

SPECIAL FEATURES

Knife Attachment

Pockets

PRE-DIVE INSPECTION

Inspection Checklist:

POST DIVE CARE & MAINTENANCE

DEALER INSPECTION & SERVICE

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Annual Service & Inspection Record

OWNER’S MANUAL

2340 Cousteau Court . Vista . CA . 92081

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