5-54
2050-DSS SIDE SCAN AND SUB-BOTTOM SYSTEM
0024048_REV_A
5.0
MAINTENANCE
The 2050-DSS Side Scan and Sub-Bottom System is ruggedly designed and built and therefore requires
little maintenance. However, to ensure long-lasting, reliable service, some periodic maintenance is
recommended.
Maintenance on the system should be performed regularly. Most of the maintenance is performed after
each deployment and recovery cycle.
5.1
Cleaning the Tow Vehicle and Cable After Use
After retrieving the Tow Vehicle from the water, use a hose to wash it down, along with the tow cable,
with clean freshwater. Thoroughly spray the transducers and the hydrophone arrays from underneath the
tow vehicle and remove any buildup of debris that may have been trapped inside. Inspect the inside of
the tow vehicle, especially the transducers, the hydrophone arrays, and the cables, for any damage and
any loose connectors. Also, inspect the tow cable and the connectors on each end.
After washing down the tow vehicle, clean the transducers and hydrophone arrays using a mild, non-
abrasive detergent and water. Do not use any abrasive detergents or ammonia-based cleaners. After
cleaning, thoroughly spray the transducers and hydrophones again with fresh water.
5.2
Inspecting and Cleaning the Underwater Connectors
Regularly inspect the contacts on each underwater connector's pins on the tow vehicle’s connector and
the tow cable connector for corrosion or oxidation. To remove any oxidation, rub the contacts lightly with
an 800 grit emery cloth cut into strips equal to or less than the width of a contact. A pencil eraser can also
be used for this purpose. The female sockets can be cleaned using a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. A
.22 caliber bore brush with only nylon bristles can be used to remove light oxidation.
To extend the life and increase the connectors' reliability, apply a thin film of silicone dielectric grease,
such as Novagard G624 general purpose silicone grease or an equivalent, to the entire surface of each
male pin. A small amount of grease should also be applied to the opening of each female socket.
NOTE:
Remember to always install dummy connectors on the tow cable's
connector and the Tow Vehicle's tow cable connector.
5.3
Tail Rudder Removal and Installation
The tail rudder can be removed if the towfish needs to be stored or shipped in a more confined space. To
do so, unthread the three bolt assemblies securing the three tail rudder brackets to the tow vehicle.
