3
MAINTENANCE
– SERVICE PROCEDURE
WARNING:
BEFORE SERVICING BE SURE THE EXTINGUISHER AGENT CYLINDER IS NOT
PRESSURIZED. THIS PROCEDURE IS BEST ACCOMPLISHED WITH THE
EXTINGUISHER IN AN UPRIGHT POSITION AND ON A LEVEL SURFACE.
1.
Clean extinguisher to remove dirt, grease or foreign material. Check to make sure that the
instruction nameplate is securely attached and legible. Inspect the cylinders for corrosion,
abrasion, dents or weld damage. If any damage is found, hydrostatically test in accordance with
instructions in CGA C-1 and C-6 and NFPA 10.
Note: When cleaning, avoid use of solvents around the pressure gauge. They
could seriously damage the plastic gauge face.
2.
Inspect the extinguisher for damaged, missing or substitute parts. Only factory replacement
parts are approved for use on Amerex fire extinguishers.
3.
Weigh the extinguisher and compare with weight printed in the "Maintenance" section on the
nameplate (label). Recharge extinguisher if weight is not within indicated allowable tolerances.
4.
Check the date of manufacture printed on the extinguisher label (nameplate) or on the agent
cylinder dome. The agent cylinder must be hydrostatically tested every 12 years to the test
pressure indicated on the nameplate.
5.
Visually inspect the pressure gauge:
a. If bent, damaged or improper gauge, depressurize and replace.
b. If pressure is low, check for leaks.
c. If over pressurized (overcharged), depressurize the extinguisher and follow recharge
instructions.
6.
Check ring pin for freedom of movement. Replace if bent or if removal appears difficult.
7.
Inspect discharge lever for any dirt or corrosion which might impair freedom of movement.
Inspect carrying handle for proper installation. If lever, handle or rivets are damaged replace
with proper Amerex part(s).
8.
Install new tamper seal if broken and record service data on the extinguisher inspection tag.
9.
Remove nozzle or hose and horn assembly and visually inspect inside valve body. (Chemical in
the valve body may indicate that the extinguisher has been partially discharged and should
therefore be recharged). Inspect nozzle or the hose & horn assembly for damage
– replace as
necessary. Blow air through nozzle or hose and horn to insure passage is clear of foreign
material.
10.
Inspect the valve assembly for corrosion or damage to hose thread connection. Replace valve
assembly or component parts as necessary following the proper depressurization and recharge
procedures. If valve removal is necessary, complete all steps in the Recharge Procedure.
11.
Install nozzle or hose and horn assembly.
12.
Replace the extinguisher on the wall hanger or in the vehicle bracket making sure that it fits the
bracket properly and the bracket is securely attached
– replace the bracket if necessary.
