In this publication10 photos
After going overboard I needed to service the automatic lifejacket. It works with a gas cylinder and a firing cartridge: a water sensor triggers the piercing pin.
First, I deflated it by pressing the valve in the oral inflation tube with my finger. Removed and discarded the used cylinder and cartridge. Rinsed the fabric with running water and dried it. Once dry, check all reflective patches are present, then inflate by mouth and make sure it holds air. Ideally, leave it for at least twelve hours.
Meanwhile, I ordered a €25 rearming kit, chosen from the specifications printed on the jacket. Mine needed a 33g CO₂ cylinder and a cartridge for a UML MK5 mechanism.
Once it arrived, I fitted the parts and repacked the jacket. Take care: it opens rapidly under considerable pressure. Avoid complicated folds; aim for concertina folds. A second jacket makes a useful reference. I arranged the folds from the cover’s outside edge towards the centre, avoiding lumps once closed.
#maintenance
First, I deflated it by pressing the valve in the oral inflation tube with my finger. Removed and discarded the used cylinder and cartridge. Rinsed the fabric with running water and dried it. Once dry, check all reflective patches are present, then inflate by mouth and make sure it holds air. Ideally, leave it for at least twelve hours.
Meanwhile, I ordered a €25 rearming kit, chosen from the specifications printed on the jacket. Mine needed a 33g CO₂ cylinder and a cartridge for a UML MK5 mechanism.
Once it arrived, I fitted the parts and repacked the jacket. Take care: it opens rapidly under considerable pressure. Avoid complicated folds; aim for concertina folds. A second jacket makes a useful reference. I arranged the folds from the cover’s outside edge towards the centre, avoiding lumps once closed.
#maintenance
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