Installing and Uninstalling Sensors
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
It is important that the entire sensor connector and cable connector be dry when installing, removing or replacing
sensors. This will prevent water from entering the port. Once a sensor is removed, examine the connector inside
the port. If any moisture is present, use compressed air to completely dry the connector or place directly in front
of a steady flow of fresh air. If you suspect port contamination, follow the port cleaning procedures listed under
Cleaning a Sensor Port.
Remove sensors upside down (facing the ground) to help prevent water from entering the port upon removal.
The instrument utilizes o-rings as seals to prevent water from entering the sensor ports. When the sensors are
removed, the o-rings that provide the seal should be carefully inspected for contamination (e.g. debris, grit, etc.)
and cleaned if necessary.
If no dirt or damage to the o-rings is evident, wipe the o-rings with a lint free cloth or lens cloth to remove the old
o-ring grease. Then, lightly apply new o-ring grease (provided in the maintenance kit) to the o-rings without
removing them from their groove. If there is any indication of damage, the o-ring should be replaced with an
identical o-ring. At the time of o-ring replacement, the entire o-ring assembly should be cleaned.
Do not over-grease the o-rings. The purpose of the o-ring grease it to keep the o-ring in good condition. Excess
grease may collect grit particles that can compromise the seal. Excess grease can also cause the waterproofing
capabilities of the o-ring to diminish, potentially causing leaks. If excess grease is present, remove it using a lens
cloth or lint-free cloth.
To remove the o-rings:
Use a small, flat-bladed screwdriver or similar blunt-tipped tool to remove the o-ring from its groove. Do not use a
sharp object to remove the o-rings. Using a sharp object could damage the o-ring groove which would allow
water to enter the port resulting in permanent damage to the port and sensor. Check the o-ring and the groove
for any excess grease or contamination. If contamination is evident, clean the o-ring and nearby plastic parts
with lens cleaning tissue or equivalent lint-free cloth. Alcohol can be used to clean the plastic parts, but use only
water and mild detergent on the o-ring itself. Using alcohol on o-rings may cause a loss of elasticity and may
promote cracking. Also, inspect the o-rings for nicks and imperfections.
Before re-installing the o-rings, make sure to use a clean workspace, clean hands, and avoid contact with
anything that may leave fibers on the o-ring or grooves. Even a very small amount of contamination (hair, grit,
etc.) may cause a leak.
To re-install the o-rings:
Place a small amount of o-ring grease between your thumb and index finger. Draw the o-ring through the grease
while pressing the fingers together to place a very light covering of grease to the o-ring. Place the o-ring into its
groove making sure that it does not twist or roll. Do no excessively stretch the o-ring during installation.
Use your grease-coated finger to once again lightly go over the mating surface of the o-ring.
Do not over-grease the o-rings. The excess grease may collect grit particles that can compromise the seal.
Excess grease can also cause the waterproofing capabilities of the o-ring to diminish, potentially causing leaks. If
excess grease is present, remove it using a lens cloth or lint-free cloth.
24