19
o
Protect the FD-80 from accidental impact damage. Secure the housing and
camera in a safe location on the boat or in any vehicle, so it does not bounce
around or bump into other cameras and housings. The insulated bag
mentioned above should be padded for this reason. Do not leave the camera
and housing in a camera rinse tank or bucket on the boat in route to the dive
site. Rough conditions can cause impact damage and photo gear can often
get tangled if too many systems are together in the tank.
o
Inspection of all user serviceable O-rings should be a routine pre-dive check.
Required maintenance for the main O-ring involves cleaning and
occasionally a small amount of silicone grease (if there is no damage
requiring replacement). Use the silicone grease supplied with the housing.
Use only enough grease to lightly cover the O-ring to reduce friction as it is
put into its place and the seal is made. Over-lubrication should be avoided
and can result in debris accumulating on the O-ring, and compromise the
seal.
o
It is highly recommended that the housing be immersed in the rinse tank or
in shallow water before every dive and all its controls operated to visually
confirm that it is watertight before descending to depth.
After a dive:
o
Rinse the housing with a strong stream of fresh water. Let it soak for about
20 minutes to allow the water to dissolve any salt residues under the controls
or in tight spaces.
o
Operate all the controls while the housing is soaking to help dislodge any
salt residue that may be caught under or around the controls.
o
Dip the housing vigorously several times to agitate the final remains of salt
from the narrow areas or around the controls.
o
Detach sync cords, arms & brackets for overnight storage. This will greatly
reduce the possibility of electrolysis and corrosion that can build up between
similar metals on the housing.
o
Dry with a clean towel or allow drying naturally in a cool shady place.
Traveling:
o
Use protective hard case when traveling to protect the camera and housing
from impact damage.
o
If possible, do not check camera and housing case on airlines. Use a hard
case that can fit under the seat or in the overhead compartment of aircraft,
and hand carry.
Annual Maintenance and Storage:
o
The housing’s main gasket and port O-ring should be replaced every year or
more often if used frequently. The frequency of replacement depends on the
user’s inspection of these seals and their condition at the time. If in doubt, it
