18
Cousteau/ SEA First Stage Service & Repair Manual
© 2000 Aqua Lung America, Inc.
1. Acid Bath - Aqua Lung strongly recommends ChromeSafe
™
regulator cleaner (P/N 0201-05) for clean-
ing all reusable brass and stainless steel parts. ChromeSafe
™
is a specially formulated cleaner that does
not harm rubber or Teflon parts, yet effectively removes silicone grease, corrosion, and grime from metal
parts, leaving only a brilliant shine. For best results, soak parts in an ultrasonic cleaner for 5 to 15
minutes, unless the chrome finish is chipped or flaking. Parts with damage to their chrome finish should
be cleaned separately outside the ultrasonic cleaner to avoid agitation. Be certain to isolate more delicate
parts, such as orifice cones, to prevent damage to sealing surfaces.
CAUTION: Harsh acids, such as muriatic acid, may cause damage to parts and must be strictly
avoided. White vinegar, although less effective, is one suitable substitute for ChromeSafe
™
.
CAUTION: Ultrasonic cleaning times in excess of 15 minutes may damage the chrome finish of certain
parts. Be certain to use a timer, and do not leave parts unattended while cleaning.
NOTE: Although ChromeSafe
™
contains a degreasing agent, cleaning heavily greased parts in
ChromeSafe
™
will shorten the effective life of the solution, and require it to be replaced on a more
frequent basis. Heavily greased parts may be degreased in a solution of warm water and mild dish
detergent prior to being placed in the acid bath.
2. Fresh Water Rinse - If tap water is extremely “hard,” distilled water may be used to prevent any mineral
residue. Remove parts from the acid bath and place directly into this rinse. Agitate lightly, and allow to
soak for 5-10 minutes. Remove and blow dry with low pressure (25 psi) filtered air, and inspect closely
to ensure proper cleaning and like-new condition.
ANODIZED ALUMINUM, PLASTIC & RUBBER PARTS
Anodized aluminum parts and parts made of plastic or rubber, such as box bottoms, box tops, dust caps,
etc., may be soaked and cleaned in a solution of warm water mixed with mild dish soap. Use only a soft
nylon toothbrush to scrub away any deposits. Thoroughly blow dry, using low pressure filtered air.
HOSES
If buildup of corrosion is severe, it is permissible to soak only the hose fittings in ChromeSafe
™
cleaner
as needed, and not allow any solution to enter the hose. Rinse in fresh water and allow to dry with the
cleaned ends hanging down. Blow filtered air through them prior to installing onto the regulator.
LUBRICATION AND DRESSING
All O-rings should be lubricated with either Christo-Lube
®
(preferred for high pressure systems) or Dow
Corning
®
111 food grade silicone grease . Dress the O-rings with a very light film of grease, and remove
any visible excess by running the O-ring between thumb and forefinger. Avoid applying excessive
amounts of silicone grease, as this will attract particulate matter that may cause damage to the O-ring.
Hoses and other black rubber parts may be dressed and preserved using a clean cloth impregnated with a
pump silicone milk.
CAUTION: Aerosol spray silicone must be strictly avoided. Do not attempt to use as a substitute for
silicone grease.
CAUTION: Do not apply any form of silicone lubricant to silicone rubber parts, as this will cause them
to deteriorate prematurely.
Procedure A
Cleaning & Lubrication
(All Aqua Lung Regulators)
