SuperLite 27 Helmet

Operations and Maintenance Manual

SAN
TA B A R I F O R NIA
B A R A , CA L

Diving Systems International

425 Garden Street
Santa Barbara, California
United States of America
Postal Code 93101
Telephone (805) 965-8538
Fax (805) 966-5761
E-Mail: DivSysIntl@aol.com
Web Site: www.Divingsystems.com

DANGER: Diving with compressed breathing gas is a hazardous activity. Even if

you do everything right there is always the potential for serious injury or death. No one
piece of diving equipment can prevent the possibility that you may be injured or killed
any time you enter the water. We do not herein make any effort to teach the principles of
diving. It is our assumption the reader is a qualified diver.

Manual prepared by Marine Marketing and Consulting & Diving Systems International
Note: This manual is the most current manual for the SuperLite 27 Helmet.
Previous manuals may not reflect these updates.

SuperLite, Dive Control System-3, DCS-3, DCS-2A, and DCS-1 are trademarks of Diving Systems International.
Use of these terms to describe products that are not manufactured by D.S.I. is not permitted.
© 2001 Diving Systems International
Document number 010426002
 Record of Changes
It is the responsibility of the owner of this product to register their ownership with Diving Systems International
by sending in the warranty card provided. This card is to establish registration for any necessary warranty work and as
a means of communication that allows DSI to contact the user regarding this product. The user must notify DSI of any
change of address by the user or sale of the product.
All changes or revisions to this manual must be recorded in this document to ensure that the manual is up to
date.

Change No. Date Description of Change Page No.

 Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1.1 Operational Specifications ........................................................................................................... 3
1.2 Kirby Morgan Diving Helmets ............................................................................................................. 4
1.3 Features of the SuperLite-27 ................................................................................................................ 4
1.4 Material Specifications ......................................................................................................................... 4
1.5 General Description .............................................................................................................................. 5
1.5.1 Helmet Shell ................................................................................................................................ 5
1.5.2 Gas Flow Systems ....................................................................................................................... 5
1.5.3 Emergency Gas Supply System ................................................................................................... 7
1.5.4 Helmet Attachment to the Diver .................................................................................................. 7
1.5.5 Sealing Arrangement ................................................................................................................... 8
1.5.6 Reducing Carbon Dioxide ........................................................................................................... 8
1.5.7 Communications .......................................................................................................................... 8
1.5.8 Equalizing the Sinuses and Inner Ears ........................................................................................ 9
1.5.9 Face Port or Viewing Lens .......................................................................................................... 9
1.5.10 Locking Sealed Pull Pins ........................................................................................................... 9
CHAPTER 2.0 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ..................................................................................... 11
2.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 11
2.2 Design Purpose ................................................................................................................................... 11
2.3 First Use of Your Kirby Morgan Diving Helmet ................................................................................ 12
2.4 Initial Adjustments to Your SuperLite-27 ........................................................................................... 12
2.4.1 Head Cushion ............................................................................................................................ 12
2.4.2 Trimming the Neck dam ............................................................................................................ 13
2.4.3 Adjusting the Neck Pad ............................................................................................................. 14
2.5 Pre Dress-In Procedure ....................................................................................................................... 14
2.5.1 Pre-Dive Visual Inspection ........................................................................................................ 14
2.6 Preparing the Helmet for Diving ........................................................................................................ 15
2.6.1 Clean Face Port ......................................................................................................................... 15
2.6.2 Check Moving Parts .................................................................................................................. 15
2.6.3 Check Communications ............................................................................................................. 15
2.6.4 One Way Valve Check ............................................................................................................... 15
2.7 Emergency Gas System ...................................................................................................................... 16
2.8 Setting Up to Dive .............................................................................................................................. 17
2.8.1 Flushing Out the Umbilical ....................................................................................................... 17
2.8.2 Connecting the Umbilical to the Helmet .................................................................................. 17
2.8.3 Opening the Breathing Gas Supply to the Helmet .................................................................... 18
2.8.4 Fogging Prevention ................................................................................................................... 18
2.8.5 Donning the SuperLite-27 ......................................................................................................... 19
2.8.6 Testing the Breathing System .................................................................................................... 22
2.8.7 Sealing Integrity Check ............................................................................................................. 22
 2.9 Diving Procedures .............................................................................................................................. 23
2.9.1 Standing By to Dive .................................................................................................................. 23
2.9.2 Attaching the Umbilical to the Harness ..................................................................................... 23
2.9.3 Diver Dons Helmet .................................................................................................................... 23
2.9.4 Diver Checks Gas Flow Systems .............................................................................................. 23
2.9.5 Communications Check ............................................................................................................. 23
2.9.6 Diver Ready ............................................................................................................................... 23
2.9.7 Water Entry and Descent ........................................................................................................... 23
2.10 Emergency Procedures .................................................................................................................... 24
2.10.1 Flooding ................................................................................................................................... 24
2.10.2 Inhalation Resistance ............................................................................................................... 24
2.10.3 Gas Flow Stops ........................................................................................................................ 24
2.10.4 Demand Regulator Free Flow.................................................................................................. 25
2.11 Post Dive Procedures ........................................................................................................................ 25
2.11.1 Removing the Equipment ........................................................................................................ 25
2.11.2 Removing the SuperLite-27 ..................................................................................................... 25
2.11.3 Storage of the Helmet Between Dives ..................................................................................... 25
CHAPTER 3.0 TROUBLESHOOTING .......................................................................................................
3.1 General................................................................................................................................................ 27
3.2 Communications Malfunction ............................................................................................................ 27
3.3 One Way Valve Malfunction............................................................................................................... 28
3.4 Side Valve Malfunction ...................................................................................................................... 28
3.5 Water Leakage into Helmet ................................................................................................................ 28
3.6 Demand Regulator Malfunction ......................................................................................................... 29
3.7 Emergency Valve Malfunction ........................................................................................................... 29
CHAPTER 4.0 INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE TIMETABLE FOR SUPERLITE-27
4.1 Daily Maintenance ............................................................................................................................. 30
4.2 Monthly Maintenance ........................................................................................................................ 30
4.3 Every Six Months or 200 Operating Hours ....................................................................................... 30
4.4 Yearly or 400 Operating Hours .......................................................................................................... 30
CHAPTER 5.0 GENERAL PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
5.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 31
5.2 Required Tools, Cleaning Agents, Lubrication................................................................................... 31
5.2.1 Component and Parts Cleaning ................................................................................................ 32
5.2.2 Component and Parts Lubrication ............................................................................................. 32
5.2.3 Teflon Tape ................................................................................................................................ 32
5.2.4 RTV Sealant ............................................................................................................................... 32
5.2.5 Thread Locker ............................................................................................................................ 33
5.3 General................................................................................................................................................ 33
5.4 Daily Maintenance .............................................................................................................................. 33
5.5 Monthly Maintenance (Between Jobs) ............................................................................................... 34
5.5.1 Locking Collar Assembly and Helmet Ring .............................................................................. 34
5.5.2 Neck Dam Ring Assembly ........................................................................................................ 34
5.5.3 Head Cushion and Chin Cushion .............................................................................................. 35
 5.5.4 Communications Inspection ...................................................................................................... 35
5.5.5 Lubricate Nose Block O-Rings.................................................................................................. 36
5.5.6 Lubricate Water Dump Valve .................................................................................................... 36
CHAPTER 6.0 BREATHING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS
6.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 37
6.2 One Way Valve ................................................................................................................................... 37
6.2.1 Disassembly of the One Way Valve ........................................................................................... 37
6.2.2 Reassembly of the One Way Valve ............................................................................................ 37
6.3 Side Block Assembly .......................................................................................................................... 38
6.3.1 General....................................................................................................................................... 38
6.3.2 Side Block Assembly Removal ................................................................................................. 38
6.3.3 Separating the Side Block Assembly from the Helmet Shell .................................................... 39
6.3.4 Side Block Assembly Replacement ........................................................................................... 39
6.4 Defogger Valve ................................................................................................................................... 41
6.4.1 Disassembly of the Defogger Valve .......................................................................................... 41
6.4.2 Cleaning and Lubricating .......................................................................................................... 41
6.4.3 Reassembly of the Defogger Valve ........................................................................................... 41
6.5 Emergency Valve Assembly ............................................................................................................... 42
6.5.1 Disassembly of the Emergency Valve Assembly....................................................................... 42
6.5.2 Cleaning and Lubricating .......................................................................................................... 42
6.5.3 Reassembly of Emergency Valve .............................................................................................. 43
6.6 Bent Tube Assembly ........................................................................................................................... 44
6.6.1 General....................................................................................................................................... 44
6.6.2 Removal of the Bent Tube Assembly ........................................................................................ 44
6.6.3 Inspection of Bent Tube Assembly ............................................................................................ 44
6.6.4 Replacement of Bent Tube Assembly ........................................................................................ 45
6.7 Demand Regulator .............................................................................................................................. 45
6.7.1 Demand Regulator Test for Correct Adjustment, Fully Assembled .......................................... 45
6.7.2 Inspection of Regulator Body Interior ....................................................................................... 46
6.7.3 Adjustment System Lubrication ............................................................................................... 47
6.7.4 Reassembly of Adjustment System ........................................................................................... 47
6.7.5 Demand Regulator Assembly Removal ..................................................................................... 48
6.7.6 Disassembly of the Demand Regulator .................................................................................... 48
6.7.7 Inspection of Demand Regulator Parts ...................................................................................... 49
6.7.8 Cleaning and Inspection of Demand Regulator Parts ................................................................ 49
6.7.9 Reassembly of the Demand Regulator ...................................................................................... 50
6.7.10 Tuning the Regulator ............................................................................................................... 51
6.7.11 Regulator Steady Flows When Pressured Up; Special Tools Used ......................................... 52
6.7.12 Regulator Has Low or No Flow When Pressurized ................................................................ 54
6.7.13 Unexplained Demand Regulator Steady Flow When Underwater .......................................... 55
6.8 Oral Nasal ........................................................................................................................................... 55
6.8.1 Oral Nasal Removal.................................................................................................................. 55
6.8.2 Inspection of Oral Nasal .......................................................................................................... 56
6.8.3 Oral Nasal Replacement ........................................................................................................... 56
6.8.4 Oral Nasal Valve Replacement ................................................................................................. 56
 6.9 Whisker Exhaust ................................................................................................................................. 56
6.9.1 Whisker Removal ...................................................................................................................... 56
6.9.2 Whisker Replacement ................................................................................................................ 56
6.10 Water Dump Assembly ..................................................................................................................... 57
6.10.1 Water Dump Valve Removal ................................................................................................... 57
6.10.2 Water Dump Valve Replacement ............................................................................................. 57
6.10.3 Water Dump Body Removal .................................................................................................... 57
6.10.4 Main Exhaust Body Replacement ........................................................................................... 57
CHAPTER 7.0 CORRECTIVE MAINTENANCE
7.1 General................................................................................................................................................ 59
7.2 Port Retainer ....................................................................................................................................... 59
7.3 Face Port ............................................................................................................................................. 59
7.3.1 General....................................................................................................................................... 59
7.3.2 Face Port and Nose Block Device Removal .............................................................................. 59
7.3.3 Face Port and Nose Block Replacement.................................................................................... 60
7.4 Neck Dam ........................................................................................................................................... 62
7.4.1 Removal of the Neck Dam ........................................................................................................ 62
7.4.2 Neoprene Neck Dam Replacement............................................................................................ 62
7.4.3 Latex Neck Dam Replacement .................................................................................................. 65
7.4.4 Trimming a Latex Neck Seal ..................................................................................................... 66
7.5 Neck Dam Pull Strap .......................................................................................................................... 67
7.5.1 Neck Dam Pull Strap Removal .................................................................................................. 67
7.5.2 Neck Dam Pull Strap Replacement ........................................................................................... 67
7.6 Chin Strap ........................................................................................................................................... 67
7.6.1 Chin Strap Removal .................................................................................................................. 67
7.6.2 Chin Strap Replacement ............................................................................................................ 67
7.7 O-Ring Seal Replacement .................................................................................................................. 67
7.8 Helmet Ring ........................................................................................................................................ 68
7.8.1 Helmet Ring Repairs ................................................................................................................. 68
7.9 Sealed Pull Pins .................................................................................................................................. 68
7.9.1 Removal of Sealed Pull Pins ..................................................................................................... 68
7.9.2 Replacement of Sealed Pull Pins ............................................................................................... 68
7.10 Swing Tongue Catch ......................................................................................................................... 69
7.10.1 Disassembly of the Swing Tongue Catch ................................................................................ 69
7.10.2 Reassembly of the Swing Tongue Catch ................................................................................. 69
7.11 Locking Collar .................................................................................................................................. 70
7.11.1 Locking Collar Removal.......................................................................................................... 70
7.11.2 Locking Collar Disassembly.................................................................................................... 72
7.11.3 Locking Collar Reassembly ..................................................................................................... 72
7.12 Head Cushion & Chin Cushion ........................................................................................................ 73
7.12.1 Head Cushion Foam ................................................................................................................ 73
7.12.2 Chin Cushion Foam ................................................................................................................. 73
 7.13 Handle and Weights .......................................................................................................................... 73
7.13.1 Handle Removal ...................................................................................................................... 73
7.13.2 Handle Replacement ................................................................................................................ 74
7.13.3 Side Weight Removal .............................................................................................................. 75
7.13.4 Side Weight Replacement ........................................................................................................ 75
7.14 Rear Weight (Optional) ..................................................................................................................... 75
7.14.1 Rear Weight Removal .............................................................................................................. 75
7.14.2 Rear Weight Replacement ....................................................................................................... 76
7.15 Communications System .................................................................................................................. 76
7.15.1 General..................................................................................................................................... 76
7.15.2 Earphone Inspection ................................................................................................................ 76
7.15.3 Removal of Communications Assembly ................................................................................. 76
7.15.4 Replacement of Communications Assembly ........................................................................... 77
7.15.5 Microphone Replacement ........................................................................................................ 77
7.15.6 Earphone Replacement ............................................................................................................ 77
7.15.7 Waterproof Connector ............................................................................................................. 78
7.15.7.1 Connector Removal .............................................................................................................. 78
7.15.7.2 Connector Replacement ........................................................................................................ 79
7.15.8 Communications Posts ............................................................................................................ 79
7.15.8.1 Communications Post Removal ........................................................................................... 79
7.15.8.2 Communications Post Replacement ..................................................................................... 80
CHAPTER 8.0 ACCESSORIES
8.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 81
8.2 Hot Water Shroud Installation Procedures ......................................................................................... 81
8.3 Low Pressure Inflator Hose Installation on the Sideblock ................................................................. 83
8.4 Weld Lens Assembly Installation Instructions ................................................................................... 84
8.6 Use of Quick Disconnect .................................................................................................................... 86
8.7 Double Exhaust Installation................................................................................................................ 86
Appendix 1 Torque Specifications............................................................................................................ 89
Table of Conversions ................................................................................................................................ 90
 DEFINITION OF TERMS
Definitions of Signal Words Used in this Manual

For your protection, pay particular attention to items identified by signal words in this manual. These
terms are identified as, CAUTION, WARNING AND DANGER. It is especially important for you to
read and understand these signal words.

CAUTION: This word indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not

avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against
unsafe practices.

WARNING: This word indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not

avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

DANGER: This word indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which if not

avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

If English is not your native language and you have any difficulty understanding the language of any
warnings as they appear in the manual, please have them translated.

WARNING: Este é um aviso importante. Queira mandá-lo traduzir.

WARNING: Este es un aviso importante. Sirvase mandario traducir.

WARNING: Quest è un avviso importante. Tradurlo.

WARNING: Ceci est important. Veuillez traduire.

WARNING: Diese Mitteilung ist wichtig. Bitte übersetzen lassen.

If you have any questions regarding the information in this manual, or the operation of your helmet,
call Diving Systems International at (805) 965-853, fax (805) 966-5761 or e-mail:
Divsysintl@aol.com for technical assistance.
IMPORTANT: A Word about this manual. We have tried to make this manual as
comprehensive and factual as possible. We reserve the right however, to make changes
at any time, without notice, in prices, colors, materials, equipment, specifications, models
and availability. Since some information may have been updated since the time of printing,
please contact your local DSI dealer if you have any questions.
 IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

This Kirby Morgan diving helmet is only intended for use by trained divers who have successfully
completed a recognized training course in surface supplied diving.

WARNING: Follow all the instructions in this manual carefully and heed all safety
precautions. Improper use of this diving helmet could result in serious injury or death.

DANGER: Diving Systems International (DSI) warns all divers who use Kirby
Morgan helmets to be sure to use only DSI original spare parts from a DSI authorized
dealer. Although other parts, O-rings and fittings may appear to fit, they may not be
manufactured to the same standards maintained by DSI. The use of any parts other
than DSI original parts may lead to equipment failure and accidents.

DANGER: Diving in an environment that is chemically, biologically, or radiologi-

cally contaminated is extremely hazardous. Although the Kirby Morgan helmets and
masks may be adapted for use in some contaminated environments, special training,
equipment, and procedures are necessary. Do not dive in a contaminated environment
unless you have been thoroughly trained and equipped for this type of diving.

Read this manual before using or maintaining this equipment, even if you have experience with
other similar demand mode masks or helmets. If you have purchased this helmet new from a
dealer, be sure to send in the warranty registration card so we may keep you informed regarding
any safety notices that affect this product. If you resell or loan this helmet to another diver, be sure
this manual accompanies the helmet and that the person reads and understands the manual.

DANGER: Diving is a life threatening occupation. Even if you do everything right

there is still the potential for serious injury or death. Diving a Kirby Morgan Helmet or
Band Mask can not prevent accidents, injuries, or death.

WARNING: This helmet was completely checked and should be ready to dive as
it was shipped from the factory. However, it is always the diver's responsibility to check
all the components of the helmet prior to diving.
This manual is supplied to the original purchaser of this helmet. If you have any questions about the use
of the helmet or you need another copy of this manual, Part Number 100-027, contact Diving Systems
International or your nearest DSI dealer. If you have any questions regarding the use, maintenance, or
operation of this helmet, contact Diving Systems International at (805) 965-8538, fax: (805) 966-5761,
or e-mail: DivSysInt@aol.com.

DANGER: Kirby Morgan masks and helmets are not cleaned or lubricated for
oxygen service. Using this mask with oxygen percentages above 50% by volume may
lead to fire or explosions which can result in serious injury or death.

All Kirby Morgan helmets and masks must not be used with oxygen breathing mixtures in excess of 50% by
volume without first insuring all gas transporting components have been cleaned and lubricated for oxygen
service. Only oxygen compatible lubricants such as Krytox® and Christo lube® should be used. Lubricants
must be used sparingly.

The information contained in this manual is intended to aid the user in optimizing the performance of this
helmet. Some of the information will depend on the diving situation and the use of associated equipment.
Many countries have specific laws and rules regarding commercial diving. The operating and performance
specifications listed in this manual on page 3 is separated into two charts. These charts demonstrate differ-
ent operation requirements, which are required or imposed by countries or regulating bodies. It is important
for the user to understand the rules, regulations, and philosophy imposed by the governing regulating
bodies whenever using commercial diving equipment. These charts show the basic operating pressures,
depths, and umbilical configurations as required by some regulating bodies. Whenever Diving Systems
International helmets or masks are used in European Countries, which have adopted the C.E. certification
programs they must only be used with C.E. certified components. Diving operations should only be con-
ducted within the limits of the operational specifications, and in accordance with the rules and regulations
established by the governing authority in the specific country or geographical location where the diving
operations are being conducted. Please call Diving Systems International regarding any operational or
performance questions.
 Warranty Information

Diving Systems International warrants every new mask, helmet, or DCS (Dive Control System) to be free from defects in
workmanship for a period of ninety (90) days from date of purchase. This warranty does not cover rubber parts or commu-
nications components.
Should any part become defective due to workmanship during the warranty period, contact your nearest authorized DSI
dealer. If there is no dealer in your area, contact DSI directly at (805) 965-8538, Fax (805) 966-5761, or E-Mail:
DivSysIntl@aol.com. You must have a return authorization number (RAM #) from DSI prior to the return of any item.
Upon approval from DSI, return the defective part, freight prepaid to: DSI, 425 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101,
USA. The part will be repaired or replaced at no charge as deemed necessary by DSI.

This warranty becomes null and void if:

1. The product is not registered with DSI within ten (10) days of purchase.

2. The product has not been properly serviced and maintained according to the appropriate DSI manual.

3. Unauthorized modifications have been made to the product.

4. The product has been abused or subjected to conditions which are unusual or exceed the product's intended
service.
 Handle

Helmet Shell

Port retainer

Free flow knob

Port

Sideblock

Emergency Equalizing
valve knob device

One-way valve

Regulator
adjustment knob

Locking Pin Regulator

 SL-27 MANUAL
STOP!
BEFORE GOING FURTHER-

This manual will refer to location numbers in specific drawings or in the exploded view(s) which
are in the back of this manual. These numbers are called “location” numbers. They are used to
find the referred to parts in the drawings in this manual only. They are not the part number. Next
to the exploded drawing is a list of the “location” numbers that match the Kirby Morgan part
numbers along with what the part is called.

Always check the part number when ordering to make sure it is correct. When ordering, always
specify the helmet model number and serial number as well.

CHAPTER 1.0
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 INTRODUCTION

Diving Systems International, Inc. (DSI) is the

same corporation (with only a name change)
that started as the Kirby Morgan Corporation
in 1965. Kirby Morgan is a registered trade-
mark for our products.

Morgan started designing and making diving

equipment shortly after becoming a breath-
hold diver while working as a beach lifeguard
in the late 1940s. There was very little equip-
ment available in those early days so it was
necessary to make much of his own gear.

During the early 1950s he originated the Los

Angeles (California) Underwater Instructor
Program for teaching Scuba divers and in-
structors. A short time later, Bev started Dive
‘N Surf, one of the first diving equipment sup-
pliers that integrated Scuba diving instruction
into the same operation as sales and service Fig 1.2 Bev Morgan, Chairman of the board,
of equipment. He, along with his partners, Diving Systems International
Bill and Bob Meistrell, designed and manu-
factured diving equipment that set the stan-
dards for the diving industry today. The Kirby Morgan Corporation was formed and
began manufacturing commercial diving hel-
In 1957 Morgan sold Dive ‘N Surf to his part- mets. The copper and brass “heavy gear” or
ners and spent the next two years cruising the “Standard Dress” helmets were the first hel-
South Pacific aboard a 60 ft. ketch. After re- mets manufactured by the company. Over the
turning from the South Pacific, Morgan started years Kirby Morgan designed, manufactured
commercial diving as well as designing and and sold many different helmets and masks for
making diving equipment for the commercial commercial divers.
market.
1
SL-27 MANUAL
good divers, diving equipment engineers, div-
ing medical specialists, diving organization
administrators and their supporting personnel
has contributed to the current state of the art
of diving.

Each piece of gear we manufacture has in it

some of the thinking of those who have gone
before us. To all those people who give some-
thing of themselves to the men and women
who work underwater, we express a thank you.

Our extensive dealer network makes it easy to obtain

genuine Kirby Morgan replacement parts as well as
technical assistance world wide. We have a strong
commitment to providing the best diving equipment
and service possible.

Diving Systems has always concentrated on design-

ing and manufacturing diving equipment that allows
most repairs and routine maintenance to be per-
formed by the user. The SuperLite 27 is no exception.
Most routine preventative and corrective mainte-
nance can be accomplished by the user utilizing this
manual, the DSI Tool Kit and common hand tools.

Steve Kushner, Diving Systems President The SL-27 side block and regulator are of a U.S.
Navy approved design, engineered to provide an
Staying active in commercial diving has con- optimum flow of breathing gas even under heavy
tributed to the successful design innovations of DSI work conditions. The SL-27 has undergone a CE
products. This may be the primary reason for Type Examination and has been certified by a noti-
the acceptance of our designs by professional fied body. The helmet has been tested to a depth of
divers. 220fsw (67msw) using air as a breathing media in
the standard configuration (standard exhaust whis-
Morgan has designed more than thirty five ker assembly). The helmet in the standard configu-
diving helmets and thirty four diving masks. ration conforms to the requirements set forth by Eu-
Led by Steve Kushner, Diving Systems President, ropean CE. When the helmet is fitted with the double
all members of the DSI staff participate as part exhaust kit, and is used in countries that conform to
of the Kirby Morgan design team. It would CE regulations the helmet is limited to a maximum
not be possible for us to supply the commer- depth on air to 30 msw (100fsw). When the helmet
cial, military, scientific, and public service in the standard configuration is used for air diving in
diving industries with our equipment without the countries not regulated CE or by specific depth or
team of people that make up Diving Systems performance regulations it may be used on air in the
International, Inc. (DSI). standard configuration to 220fsw (67msw). For fur-
ther performance information on the double exhaust
We feel it is important for the reader to un- whisker configuration see section 8.7.
derstand that we at D.S.I. consider ourselves Performance of the helmet is dependent on many fac-
as only part of the process along the path in tors including type of breathing gas used, work rate,
diving equipment design. We welcome all in- delivery pressure, umbilical internal diameter, length
put from our customers. The thinking of many and number of connections, diving depth and capa-
2
 SL-27 MANUAL
bility of the gas delivery system to provide breath- The umbilical assembly should be composed of good
ing media at the required SCFM or LPM to maintain quality diving hose that meets industry standards.
the optimum static over bottom pressure. Perfor- Generally, gas hose will be married to the communi-
mance of this helmet is measured in volume aver- cations wire, pneumofathometer hose, and strength
aged pressure, resistive effort, formally called work member in a manner that will allow the strength
of breathing. Volume averaged pressure is the mea- member to receive all the strain. There are also good
surement of average pressures contributed by resis- quality umbilicals available that are assembled at the
tive components within the UBA. This value is nor- factory using a twisted method which does not re-
mally expressed in Joules/liter. The performance of quire marrying. Regardless of the system used, the
this helmet can be expected to be less than 3.0 J/L umbilical is the divers life line and should always be
when used within the following guidelines. of excellent quality and maintained carefully.

1.1.1 Operational Specifications The diving control station can be at the surface, in a
diving bell, or out of a submerged habitat. The diving
Operational Specifications and Limitations: control station is the center of the air/gas supply,
- Maximum depth on air - 220 fsw (67 msw) with communications with the diver, and diving proce-
the standard exhaust whisker assembly. dures.
- Maximum depth on air - 100 fsw (30 msw) when
equipped with the double exhaust whisker
assembly*. DANGER: Decompression diving al-
ways involves the risk of decompression
Work rate - moderately heavy - 62.5 lpm rmv. sickness. Omitted decompression due to
loss of gas supply or other accidents can
-Umbilical minimum I.D. 3/8” (9.5 mm) of one con- cause serious injury or death. Use of a Su-
tinuous length (no splice), total length not to exceed perLite 27 cannot prevent this type of injury.
600 feet (182m).

-Required over-bottom supply pressure, WARNING: Gas systems used to sup-

0-l00 fsw (0-30 msw), 115-135 psig (8-9.3 bar). ply Kirby Morgan helmets and masks must
100-150 fsw (30-50 msw),135-225 psig (9.3-15.5 bar). be capable of supplying gas to the diver at
100-220 fsw (30-67 msw),175-225 psig (12.0-15.5 bar). the required pressure and flow rates as
stated in the operational specifications. The
-Gas supply system capable of supplying 4.5 acfm use of unregulated gas sources is extremely
(127.4 BL/min) to the side block assembly at depth. dangerous. The use of standard SCUBA type
-Temperature limitations: Use at water temperatures regulators is unacceptable, as there are no
below 36o F (2oC) requires use of hot water shroud provisions for adjusting the intermediate
and hot water. pressure to the diver. Only proven systems
that allow for varying the gas supply pres-
sure to the diver should be used for umbili-
- Only equipment certified and tested according to cal diving.
EN 250/E DIN 58 642 may be used with the SL-27
helmet when conducting diving operations in
European EC compliant countries.

3
SL-27 MANUAL
1.2 KIRBY MORGAN DIVING HELMETS 5) The externally adjustable chin strap (146) helps
to secure the diver in the helmet, yet can be adjusted
All Kirby Morgan diving helmets are manufactured at any time during the dive.
by Diving Systems International, Inc. (DSI). Each
step of the manufacturing process is carefully con- 6) The head cushion (40) attaches just inside the
trolled to assure the customer a high quality, durable bottom of the helmet, keeping it in place when the
helmet that will function properly. diver dons the hat. The standard head cushion is made
from Polartec® material.
There are four different Kirby Morgan diving hel-
mets in production at this time. They are the Super- 7) When the neck dam/neck ring (148) is locked into
Lite-17, the SuperLite-17C, and the SuperLite-27, place on the helmet neck ring, it is located up inside
and the U.S. Navy MK-21 mod 1. The SuperLite-17 a protective metal receiving shroud (that the neck
was first developed in 1975 and quickly set a new ring O-ring seals to) which protects the neck ring
standard for diving helmet design. This design has and neck dam (148) from side impact damage dur-
been successfully used around the world by many
ing the dive.
large and small commercial diving companies, mili-
tary organizations, scientific divers, and public safety 8) The communications system (134) is a modular,
divers.
quick change design.
The SuperLite-27 was developed in 1992. It features
a unique locking collar design and an extremely low DANGER: Never use any aerosol pro-
volume. It shares a common breathing system with pelled sprays near the face port of any Kirby
both the SuperLite-17 and the SuperLite-17C. Morgan diving helmet. The Freon propellant
used in these aerosols can invisibly dam-
Other features common to all three helmets include: age the face port and cause it to shatter on
• the face port and retainer ring impact from any strong blow. If the face port
• communications components fails underwater the helmet will flood and
• the oral/nasal mask drowning may result.
• the nose block device
• the air train
• most demand regulator components 1.4 MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS
Many of the breathing system components on these
Weight 27 pounds
three helmets are also compatible with our Kirby
Construction
Morgan Band Mask, models 18A/B and 28B. This Helmet shell Fiberglass, polyester resin and carbon fiber
helps reduce the inventory of spare parts that must Hardware Stainless steel, chromed brass, polished brass
be carried by commercial diving companies. Control Knobs ABS plastic
Lexan
Lens/face port polycarbonate
1.3 FEATURES OF THE SUPERLITE-27 Neck dam Neoprene (latex neck dam optional)
O-rings Buna-N
1) Both latex and neoprene neck dams (140) are avail- Head Cushion
able for this helmet. Bag Polartec
Foam #4 Ester

2) The locking collar design helps to maintain a very Communications

Earphones Mylar cone speakers, 8 ohm
low volume in this helmet.
Microphone 8 ohm
Adjustable through head cushion and face cushion,
3) The adjustable neck pad (155) also provides fur- Adjustment of helmet fit
external chin strap and neck pad
ther customization for the fit of the helmet. Number of External
One
Weights
Recommended lubricants Dow
D owCorning
Corning 111
Msilicone
S4 Silicfor
onrubber
e, Kryt& , for
ox055 Halmetal
ocarbtoon
metal
4) The bottom end of the helmet is well protected Operating Pressure 115
115--2225psig
25 p.s.iover
. oveambient
r ambie(8-15),
nt see page three

against wear. The base of the helmet (58) is a ma- Flow requirements 44.5
.5 acfm
SCFM(127.4 Bl/min) at the diver
Breathinmode
g sysdiving,
tem maadjustable
n tested bdemand
y USN Eregulator
xperimen tal
chined brass ring that provides an excellent seal yet MaxDesign
imum Principal
Operating Demand
D ivingflow
Unitvalve
to 85for
0 Ffaceplate
SW and U
with
niversity of Pennsylvani
Depth steady clearing.
is less susceptible to damage. 1600 FSW

4
 SL-27 MANUAL
1.5 GENERAL DESCRIPTION current with a hose or fitting break on deck), but the
diver could suffer from a serious “squeeze” that
1.5.1 Helmet Shell could cause injury or death. Although we have se-
lected the valve for its reliability and quality, inspec-
The helmet shell (58) is fabricated of noncorrosive, tion and maintenance of this valve must be done regu-
rigid fiberglass which will not carry an electrical larly. It is very easy to disassemble and inspect. (A
charge. This shell is the central structure for mount- rebuild kit for this valve is available, DSI Part #525-
ing all the components that make up the complete 330).
helmet. It is designed to allow easy replacement of
parts when necessary. Any repair to the helmet shell WARNING: The one way valve must
must be done at an approved DSI repair center. be tested daily, prior to the commencement
of diving operations. Failure of one way valve
On the SuperLite-27, a machined, chrome plated, could cause serious injury or death. Follow
brass helmet ring is attached to the base of the hel- the procedures for testing the valve in chap-
met shell at the DSI factory. This chromed brass ter 2 (sec. 2.4.6) of this manual.
helmet ring must not be removed by anyone other
than the factory or a DSI approved repair center. The emergency gas comes from a tank of compressed
gas worn by the diver. It enters the system through
1.5.2 Gas Flow Systems the emergency valve (27) when the diver turns the
control knob (24) on. The flow then enters the side
The main gas supply flow from the umbilical enters block (12).
the system at the adapter (36) and flows through the
one way valve (37) to the interior of the side block CAUTION/WARNING: Never connect
(12). The one way valve or “non-return” is a very the main gas supply hose from the diving
important component. It prevents the flow of gas out station/umbilical to the emergency valve.
of the helmet to the umbilical in the event of a sud- There is no one way valve in the emergency
den lowering of pressure in the supply hose. This valve. If this mistake is made, any break in
can happen due to an accidental break in the hose or the supply hose could possibly result in a
a fitting near the surface. Not only would the emer- “squeeze”.
gency gas be lost if the one way valve failed (con-

Hinge Pin
Neck Pad
Fiberglass Shell
Pull Strap
UP
ERLIT Air Train
S

27
AN
KIR

B
G

Y MOR

Oral Nasal Mask

Comm Module
Neck Dam
Whisker Chin Strap
Locking Collar Pull Pin Water Dump Shroud

Fig 1.4 Front View SL-27 Fig 1.5 Bottom View SL-27

5
SL-27 MANUAL
Both sources of gas flow through the same passage range of incoming gas supply pressures. (Normally
in the side block body (12) to two exits. One exit is this would be from 115-225 psig (8-15.5 bar) over
always open to supply gas to the demand regulator ambient. When diving in relatively shallow water
assembly (113). The other exit is to the defogger (to depths of 100 fsw (30 msw) we recommend a
valve (free-flow valve) assembly (1-10). supply pressure of between 115-135 psig (8-9.3 bar)
over ambient. When diving deeper than 100 fsw (30
The diver controls the flow of gas through the de- msw), we recommend a supply pressure of between
fogger system with the control knob (3). The gas 175-225 psig (12.0-15.5 bar) over ambient.) The ad-
enters the helmet and flows through the air train (67) justment knob operates by simply increasing or de-
which directs the gas onto the face port (77) to help creasing the amount of spring bias tension on the
eliminate or clear fogging of the faceplate that forms demand regulator inlet valve. The adjustment knob
from the diver’s warm breath. The flow continues has a range of approximately 13 turns from full in to
out through the water dump (helmet exhaust) valve full out. The intent of this bias adjustment device is
(71-75), or into the oral nasal (50) by means of the strictly to allow the diver to make adjustments for
valve (52-53), then into the regulator (113) and out variations in umbilical supply pressure. This adjust-
through the regulator exhaust (112). The diver can ment device is not intended as a minimum-maximum
breathe from this flow of gas if the demand regula- device. Minimum and maximum applies to supply
tor malfunctions. pressure only. The adjustment knob should be ad-
justed by the diver to be at the easiest breathing set-
Returning to the side block assembly: the other pas- ting at all times. The exact number of turns required
sage for gas is to the demand regulator (113). It goes is dependent on the supply pressure. Diving a DSI
to a bent tube assembly (16) that connects to the in- helmet or bandmask with a bias setting greater than
let nipple (109) of the demand regulator. The flow that just necessary to keep the demand valve from
of gas in the demand regulator assembly is controlled free flowing increases the work of breathing and re-
by the inlet valve (111) that supplies gas to the diver duces the diver's ability to perform heavy work.
on inhalation “demand” only, and shuts off during
the exhalation cycle.
CAUTION: The regulator adjustment
The SuperFlow demand regulator senses the start of knob should be adjusted to the easiest
the divers inhalation and opens the inlet valve, match- breathing setting at all times. Adjusting the
regulator further in than necessary to keep
ing the diver’s need. The regulator continues to from free-flowing increases breathing re-
match the diver’s inhalation as the rate increases, sistance.
peaks, then ebbs and stops. When the diver exhales,
the supply gas stays off as the exhalation gas flows The side block (12) is drilled and tapped to accept
through the regulator body (113), out the regulator low pressure inflator hoses. This allows the diver the
exhaust valve (112), through the whisker (86), and capability to inflate variable volume dry suits or
out into the water. The whisker deflects the exhaust buoyancy compensators. It is tapped with a 3/8"-24
bubbles away from the thread, standard for American first stage Scuba
face port (77) to keep the regulator’s low pressure auxiliary fittings. The port
diver’s view clear. is shipped plugged (17) at delivery. It is important to
use only a good quality inflator hose that has an in-
All Diving systems Helmets tegrated flow restrictor built into the fitting at the
and Bandmasks are equipped side block end. This restrictor is used by most dry
with a multi turn demand suit manufactures to help reduce the flow of gas in
regulator adjustment knob. the event the hose fitting gets sheared off. If a stan-
This adjustment knob dard bore scuba hose is used the DSI restrictor adapter
(98) allows the PN# 555-7210 must be used. This DSI adapter is
Low pressure
diver to make ad- designed with a restriction built in and will allow a
inflator port
justments to com- sufficient flow of breathing gas to the diver to make
pensate for a wide a safe ascent in the event of a inflation hose failure.
6
 SL-27 MANUAL
The DSI Overpressure relief valve, part number 200-
WARNING: When using the side block 017 has been manufactured in two different flow
low pressure inflator port. The Operator rates. The original valve had a lower flow rate then
should only use high quality hoses with an the current valve. The current valve has been marked
integrated flow restrictor or a DSI flow in two ways, the first being a groove around the flats
restrictor PN# 555-720. All hoses must have of the hex. Currently the valve is marked with a
an in-line restrictor to reduce the gas flow groove around the top of the body. These are the same
in the event of hose failure. Do not use fit- valve, just different marks.
ting adapters, standard adapters do not pro-
vide an adequate flow restriction. The use 1.5.4 Helmet Attachment to the Diver
of many off the shelf adapters on the side
block assembly could expose the low pres- On the SuperLite-27, the neck ring on the base of
sure hose fittings to excessive stress. Any the helmet shell (58) has a machined O-ring sealing
failure of an inflation hose will subject the surface. The O-ring (138) that seals against this sur-
diver to a decreased supply pressure. face sits inside the neck dam ring assembly. The neck
dam ring is actually a two part ring, consisting of the
upper split ring (139) and the lower stepped ring
1.5.3 Emergency Gas Supply System (141). The neck dam (140) is captured (sandwiched)
between these parts.
All divers using Kirby Morgan surface supplied hel-
mets and masks must always have a diver worn 138

emergency gas cylinder fitted with a first stage regu-

139
lator and hose that is connected to the inlet of the
emergency supply valve. The size of the cylinder
140
should be such that will allow the diver to safely
ascend to the surface or to a point where the normal 141

gas supply can be restored. The first stage regulator 142

should always be fitted with the DSI overpressure 143 145 146

relief valve. 148 144

152
147
WARNING: Be sure the emergency 149
150

air/gas first stage regulator is fitted with an

overpressure relief valve. A leaky first stage
154
can overpressure the hose, bursting it and 151 158

causing a loss of the entire bailout supply 152

153 155

and possible physical injury to the diver as

156
the hose whips about. Do not use a high 157

pressure hose as the system on the helmet

is not designed for high pressure. Fig 1.7 - Neck Dam & Locking Collar components

The locking collar and neck pad assembly has a

smaller opening than a diver’s head so the helmet
cannot be accidentally dislodged on most divers. The
neck pad pushes against the neck dam and lower
portion of the head cushion firmly securing the hel-
met to the diver’s head. The neck pad also helps pre-
vent neck dam ballooning. Each diver must person-
Fig. 1.6 ally adjust the fit on his helmet by adjusting the neck
Shown are the three versions of the over pres- pad, as well as the head cushion. All of these parts
sure relief valve, current model on the far right. together help provide a good fit.

7
SL-27 MANUAL

CAUTION: The fit of the SuperLite-27 CAUTION/WARNING Pulling the neck

is partially determined by the adjustment dam over the diver’s head can be difficult.
of the neck pad. If the neck pad is not prop- The latex neck dam should be powdered if
erly adjusted it may be very uncomfortable dry. If wet, the diver should devise a system
on the diver’s neck. Take the time to adjust to get the seal over his head without exces-
the neck pad properly and check the fit prior sive force. Stretching (expanding) the seal
to each dive to ensure the adjustment has and placing part way over the head can help
not changed. reduce the force needed to install the seal.
Proper training is necessary to install the
neck seal over the diver’s head and onto his
neck. Although the possibility is very re-
On the SuperLite-27, both sides of the helmet lock- mote, injury might result if this procedure is
ing collar have a latch catch block to receive the lock- not done properly. If a diver does not know
ing sealed pull pins (130). If the sealed pull pins are how to don the neck seal he should seek
turned to the locking position while the locking col- proper instruction before proceeding.
lar is open, the locking collar will snap into the locked
position when it is pushed up into the helmet neck 1.5.6 Reducing Carbon Dioxide
ring. The sealed pull pin on each side must be pulled
It is important to reduce the volume of air/gas space
to release the locking collar to remove the helmet.
that the diver is breathing through. Carbon dioxide
This system provides an extremely secure method
(CO2) can build up if proper flushing does not oc-
of attaching the helmet to the diver.
cur. A rubber oral nasal mask (50) is located inside
the helmet to fit over the diver’s nose and mouth.
The head cushion (40) is made from layers of open
The oral nasal attaches to the regulator mount nut
cell foam inserted in a head shaped Polartec® bag.
(49). This separates the breathing gas flow from the
The fit of the head cushion can be adjusted by add-
larger gas space on the interior of the helmet, and
ing or subtracting foam layers from the bag. The head
this in turn reduces carbon dioxide buildup.
cushion must be adjusted correctly for the helmet to
fit properly.
WARNING: Always be sure the oral
nasal valve is properly mounted in the oral
The relationship between the locking collar assem-
nasal mask. If the valve is mounted improp-
bly, head cushion, face cushion, and helmet shell all
erly or is absent this can lead to a higher
affect the fit of the SuperLite-27.
CO2 level inside the helmet. A higher CO2
level can cause dizziness, nausea, head-
1.5.5 Sealing Arrangement
aches, shortness of breath, or blackout.
The neck dam (140), available in several sizes, is
1.5.7 Communications
fabricated in a cone shape. The neck dam on Super-
Lite-27 is made of foam neoprene. An optional latex
In the SuperLite-27, both earphones (132,133) and
neck dam is available.
microphone (131) are wired in parallel to the com-
munications module 116). This module allows for
The neck dam seals against the diver’s neck. The fit
rapid replacement of the entire communications sys-
of the neoprene neck dam may be made larger by
tem. The module can be equipped with either a wa-
stretching the neck dam over a Scuba cylinder over-
terproof connector, or binding posts for bare wire
night. The fit of the latex neck dam may be made
connection.
larger by trimming the neck dam. The neck dam
must fit snugly.
Electrical signals are sent to, and received from, the
surface through the umbilical wires. An amplifier
boosts the signals to the desired volume for the sur-
face and the diver.
8
 SL-27 MANUAL
1.5.8 Equalizing the Sinuses and Inner Ear 1.5.10 Locking Sealed Pull Pin

A nose block device (51) allows the diver to block A special locking sealed pull pin (130) filled with
his nose to provide an overpressure in his sinus and silicone fluid helps to prevent fine sand or mud from
inner ear for equalization. The blocking pad on the entering the mechanism and help to avoid jamming.
inside of the oral nasal mask is attached to a shaft
which passes through a packing gland to the outside
of the helmet. A knob attached to the end of the WARNING: This pin must only be re-
shaft can be pushed in to slide the pad under the paired or overhauled by an authorized DSI
diver’s nose. When not needed, the knob is pulled dealer or returned directly to DSI. This is not
out so the pad does not rub under the diver’s nose. a field serviceable item. Failure to properly
The pad may also be turned upside down (to provide service this pin could result in a failure of
more clearance under the diver’s nose) by rotating the locking collar latch system, which could
the shaft. cause the helmet to come off the diver’s
head. This could lead to drowning.
1.5.9 Face Port or Viewing Lens

The face port or viewing lens (77) is extremely strong

plastic which is easily removable for replacement of
the lens. An O-ring (76), located under the lens, seals
the lens to the fiberglass helmet shell.

DANGER: The port retainer screws

must be tightened to proper torque specifi-
cations per the instructions in this manual.
See Appendix 1 for proper torque specifica-
tions. Do not over tighten.

O-ring Seal

Face Port

Port Retainer

Weld Lens screw

Port Retainer
screw

Fig 1.8 - Face Port components

9
SL-27 MANUAL

NOTES

10
 SL-27 MANUAL

CHAPTER 2.0
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: This manual is our effort to explain the operation, maintenance and use of the Kirby
Morgan SuperLite-27™. We do not herein make any effort to teach the principles of diving. It is our
assumption the user is a qualified diver. We highly recommend that all divers train in the use of any
model of commercial diving helmet, under controlled conditions, that they have not previously used or
trained in prior to use on the job.

2.1 INTRODUCTION

This section provides the manufacturer’s advice on The umbilical is usually composed of at least a gas
how to use the Kirby Morgan SuperLite-27. The use or air supply hose and communication wire, as-
of this diving helmet will vary with the type of work sembled with waterproof tape (and in some umbili-
and environmental conditions. The basic procedures cals wound similar to strands in a rope) to form a
of donning and removing this helmet will be similar single unit. Some umbilicals also have included a
for every job. hose for hot water, a pneumofathometer hose, and a
strength member, such as a cable or strong line. It is
A proper training program in a calm, clear body of strongly recommended that the air/gas umbilical be
water should be undertaken, if possible. If the diver married to a strength member in a manner that al-
has not used the SuperLite-27 before, he must not
dive with that helmet without proper training. How-
ever, divers that are familiar and trained in the use of
previous Kirby Morgan masks; i.e., KMB 8, 9, 10,
18, 28, the Navy Mk. 1 mask, Navy MK. 21 helmet,
or the Navy Mk. 22 mask or the SuperLite-17 hel-
met, will find that all Kirby Morgan diving helmets
have the breathing system controls located in the
same position and the operation of this helmet will
be similar.

2.2 DESIGN PURPOSE

All Kirby Morgan diving helmets are designed for

use with an umbilical.

WARNING: Only under very controlled

conditions, i.e., non-moving water (such as
swimming pools or calm lakes), should Kirby
Morgan diving helmets be used with a self
contained gas supply. There is no provision
for surface swimming once the Scuba air
supply is depleted. Adequate support per-
sonnel for the conditions must be assisting
the diver to assure his safety.

Fig. 2.1 The diver must be tended at the surface at all times
by a trained, qualified commercial diving tender.
11
SL-27 MANUAL
lows the strength member to receive the strain. This The helmet demand regulator and side block assem-
will help reduce the possibility of umbilical and bly have been designed to operate with a supply pres-
umbilical fitting fatigue and possible failure. The sure from 115 psig (8 bar) over ambient pressure to
umbilical is the divers lifeline to the diving control 225 psig (16 bar) over ambient pressure. This wide
station. operating range allows flexibility when using vari-
ous gas supply systems. For maximum breathing
The diver must be tended at the surface at all times performance it is desirable to maintain an over bot-
by a trained, qualified commercial diving tender. tom supply pressure of 135 psig (9.3 bar) when div-
Never dive without a qualified tender holding your ing to depths of 100 fsw (30 msw), and 175-225 psi
diving hose. (12.0-15.5 bar) over bottom when diving to depths
in excess of 100 fsw (30 msw). With the many dif-
The diving control station can be at the surface, in a
ferent gas supply console configurations in use, it is
diving bell, or in a submerged habitat. The diving
important to insure that the gas supply system used,
control station is the center of the air/gas supply, com-
is capable of supplying the helmet with the neces-
munications with the diver, and diving procedures.
sary pressure and flow of gas to allow the diver to
The station can be as simple as a tender with a set of
work safely and efficiently. In countries that have
“phones” (communication amplifier), or as complex
adopted C.E. standards only C.E. certified supply
as a control van in the midst of a saturation system.
systems and components may be used in conjunc-
tion with the helmet.
DANGER: Decompression diving al-
2.3 FIRST USE OF YOUR KIRBY MORGAN
ways involves the risk of decompression
DIVING HELMET
sickness. Omitted decompression due to
loss of gas supply or other accidents can
cause serious injury or death. The use of the When you first receive your Kirby Morgan diving
SL-27 cannot prevent this type of injury. helmet, carefully unpack it and examine it for any
damage that may have occurred during shipment. Use
Diving Systems International manufactures two com- the inspection sheet provided to ensure that no dam-
plete Dive Control Systems, the DCS-2A™ with in- age has occurred. The purchaser must contact the
tegrated communications and pneumofathometer, freight carrier and/or the DSI dealer if the helmet
and DCS-3™, with integrated pneumofathometer. has been damaged in shipment.
These portable systems can be operated on either a
high pressure air supply or on a low pressure com- Be sure to complete the enclosed warranty card and
pressor. Both Dive Control Systems have specially return it to DSI immediately. No warranty claims
designed high pressure regulators that reduce high will be honored without a correctly completed war-
pressure air and provide an adequate flow to support ranty card on file at DSI.
divers to a depth of 130 fsw (40 msw)
CAUTION: DSI must have your current
address to assure that you receive all safety
WARNING: High pressure supply notices and other important information con-
regulators and associated piping systems cerning the helmet. Please notify DSI of any
for surface supplied diving with Kirby Mor- change of address.
gan helmets and masks must be capable of
delivering a minimum of 3.2 acfm to the diver
at depth. Only systems that can deliver the 2.4 INITIAL ADJUSTMENTS TO YOUR SU-
required gas flow should be used. PERLITE-27

Before using the helmet for the first time, it must be

checked and adjusted for proper fit. There are sev-
eral adjustments that must be made to provide a more
comfortable fit when wearing the helmet.
12
 SL-27 MANUAL
2.4.1 Head Cushion Trim only 1/4 inch off the neck dam at a time. When
you are done, the neck dam must be just tight enough
The fit of the helmet is primarily determined by the so that it does not leak. This may feel a bit snug out
layers of open cell foam that fill the head cushion of the water, but will be very comfortable underwa-
bag (40). ter.
The center top/rear foam in the SuperLite-27 is very If you have a neoprene neck dam, it may also need
dense to reduce compression and spring-back. This to be stretched for it to fit properly. Trim the neck
reduces the tendency of the helmet to ride up when dam until it is still snug, then stretch it by sliding it
underwater. Do not replace this rigid foam with a over a Scuba tank and allowing it to sit overnight. If
soft foam. A softer foam is used on the sides and you still cannot get the proper fit by stretching the
around the bottom of the head cushion. neck dam, it must be trimmed further. Do not trim
more than 1/4 inch at a time.
The diver’s head can be moved forward into the oral
nasal mask (50) by adding layers of additional foam CAUTION: Avoid trimming neoprene
at the rear of the head cushion. The diver’s head can neck dams too much. Neoprene neck dams
be moved up or down in the helmet by decreasing or will loosen over time as they are used and
increasing the foam pads at the top of the head cush- the cells of the foam neoprene break down.
ion. Usually, a diver with a small head will require If you trim the neck dam too much it will be
all the foam that comes with a new hat. A diver with too loose and will leak. Trim the neck dam
a larger head will need to remove a layer of foam in until it is snug, then stretch it before use.
the center top and back of the head cushion. The foam
may be cut with scissors to provide a better fit, or
more foam can be added to give a tighter fit.

The chin cushion (41) on the SuperLite-27 can also 138

be adjusted if necessary. 139

2.4.2 Trimming the Neck dam 140

If your helmet is new, or any time you replace the 141

neck dam (140), it must be adjusted to fit you. New 142

neck dams are cone shaped and will probably be too 143 145 146

tight if not properly trimmed. 148 144

152
147
149
150
WARNING: Never dive with a neck
dam that is too tight. A neck dam that is too
tight could cause the diver to pass out due 151
154
158

to pressure on the carotid artery in the neck. 152

153 155

156
157
The latex neck dam must be trimmed to fit your neck.
To trim the neck dam, have your tender hold the neck Fig 2.2 - Neck Dam & Locking Collar components.
dam opening so that the two “edges” of the neck dam
are parallel. The neck dam must be under slight ten- A neoprene neck dam that is too large may be tight-
sion but must not be stretched beyond its normal ened up by cutting a wedge out of the open end.
length. Trim the neck dam with the largest, sharpest Glue the cut edges back together using wet suit ce-
scissors available, in order to make as few cuts as ment. Be sure to allow the modification of the neck
possible. There must be no jagged edges on the neck dam at least 24 hours to dry.
dam or it may tear.
13
SL-27 MANUAL

DANGER: Be sure to use adequate locked up into its closed position. The locking sealed
ventilation when using wet suit cement. Wet pull pins must snap into place on the locking collar.
suit cement fumes are toxic and can lead to
unconsciousness or death if the cement is Lift your head back up and slide the neck pad for-
used in an enclosed space. Wet suit cement ward until it is snug but comfortable. Mark the posi-
fumes can also cause long term damage to tion of the neck pad on the locking collar using an
body tissues if you are exposed to it at low indelible marker. Open the locking sealed pull pins
levels on a frequent basis. and let the locking collar open. Tilt your head for-
ward and open the locking collar so the screws can
As the neoprene neck dam ages, it will become looser, be tightened. Position the neck pad plate on the lock-
due to a natural breakdown of the cells. This is par- ing collar at the marked position and tighten the
ticularly true if the helmet is locked in and out of a screws on each side. After the adjustment screws are
bell or saturation system. As the neck dam becomes tightened, tilt your head forward and lock the lock-
worn it will need replacement to ensure that it seals ing collar/neck pad assembly. Move your head in
properly. various positions making sure the pad is adjusted for
comfort.
2.4.3 Adjusting the Neck Pad
The helmet is now adjusted for your head. It should
Another component that controls the fit of the Su- need no further adjustment unless another diver uses
perLite-27 is the adjustable neck pad (155). The neck the helmet.
pad, which is mounted on the locking collar, slides
back and forth along the locking collar body for ad- 2.5 PRE DRESS-IN PROCEDURE
justment to fit different divers. Two screws (157) and
mount nuts (154) lock the neck pad plate to the lock- Before dressing in for a dive, inspection of the hel-
ing collar. Loosening these screws from the mount met system must be made to be sure it is in proper
nuts allows the neck pad to be adjusted. working order. This must be done well in advance of
the dive so any problems can be fixed without de-
The following procedure requires a diver and ten- laying the dive. The following steps are part of the
der. You do not need to have the air on to the helmet recommended daily maintenance.
if you do not use the neck dam ring assembly. If the
neck dam assembly is used, the diver must have air 2.5.1 Pre-Dive Visual Inspection
to the helmet to breathe.
Visually inspect the exterior and interior of the hel-
With the helmet face down on a suitable surface, pull met.
and turn each of the sealed pull pins (130) until they
are clear of their locking notch and the pins are fully 1) The demand regulator cover assembly (101)
extended. Open the locking collar/neck pad assem- should not be dented.
bly (153-155) fully by lifting it away from the base
of the helmet. Slightly loosen the screws until the 2) The neck dam (140) must not be torn or punc-
neck pad and plate can slide back and forth. Be sure tured.
the head cushion snaps are attached to the bottom of
the helmet. WARNING: There must be no holes
in the neck dam. If there are any holes in the
Pick up the helmet and pull the nose block device neck dam the helmet could leak or flood. In
(51) out fully. Position the helmet on your head so addition, the demand regulator will not op-
the oral nasal (50) is in the proper position on your erate properly. Drowning could result.
face, covering your nose and mouth. Turn the sealed
pull pins to the locking position with the ridge on 3) Inspect the O-ring (138) on the neck dam ring
the pins engaging the notch in the sleeve and the pins assembly (148). The O-ring must be in place and
fully retracted. Tilt your head forward so the locking undamaged.
collar/neck pad assembly may be swung forward and
14
 SL-27 MANUAL

DANGER: The O-ring on the neck dam DANGER: All parts on Kirby Morgan
ring assembly on the SuperLite-27 must be diving helmets must be adjusted to their
in place and in good condition. It must be proper torque specifications. See Appendix
properly lubricated for smooth operation. 1 for a complete listing of torque specifica-
Without a proper functioning O-ring the hel- tions for each part. Failure to adjust parts to
met will leak and possibly flood. Drowning the recommended specifications could lead
could result. to helmet failure and accidents. This could
be fatal.
4) Inspect the bent tube (14) that supplies breathing
gas to the regulator. There must be no dents or kinks 2.6 PREPARING THE HELMET FOR DIVING
in the assembly.
2.6.1 Clean Face Port
5) Inspect the face port (77). It must be in good con-
dition. Thoroughly clean the face port with a soft cloth and
a mild liquid detergent solution. DO NOT USE ANY
6) Be sure the communications wires are hooked up AEROSOL SPRAYS ON THE LEXAN PORT!
and there are no loose connections. 2.6.2 Check Moving Parts
7) Inspect the oral/nasal mask (50). Make sure it is Check all moving parts, such as the regulator adjust-
on the regulator mount nut properly. ment knob (98), the defogger control knob (3), emer-
gency knob (24), and the nose block device knob
8) Inspect the sealed pull pin (130) on each side of (85) to ensure smooth and proper operation.
the helmet. They must engage and disengage prop-
erly. 2.6.3 Check Communications

9) Make sure the head cushion (40) and chin cush- Check the communications system for proper opera-
ion (41) are properly fastened inside the helmet. tion. Put the helmet on and talk to an assistant on the
amplifier. If you are by yourself, with the helmet off
take the helmet near the amplifier and tap on each
earphone (132,133) and the microphone (131), lis-
tening to the taps on the amplifier/speaker. Talk into
the amplifier/speaker feeling the vibration on each
earphone and the microphone with your fingertips.

2.6.4 One Way Valve Check

There are two ways to check the one way valve (37).
Check both ways if possible.

1) Leaving the emergency valve knob open (on) (24)

and not hooked up to the supply hose, try to suck air
Fig 2.3 - Installing the head cushion. out of the adapter (36). If any air comes out, the one
way valve must be rebuilt or replaced.
10) Check the screws (80) on the port retainer (78).
They must be adjusted to the proper torque setting
specifications noted in Appendix 1 (page 88) of this WARNING: the one way valve must be
manual. Binder head screws are used in this applica- tested daily, prior to commencement of div-
tion for their self locking characteristics. Overtight- ing operations. Failure of the one way valve
ening may strip out the threaded inserts in the hel- could cause serious injury or death.
met shell (58).

15
SL-27 MANUAL

Fig 2.4 - Checking the one way valve.

2) Prior to attaching (or pressuring up) the umbili-

cal, close the emergency valve knob (24), attach and
pressure up the emergency hose. Shut off the defog-
ger control knob (3) and screw in the adjustment knob
on the regulator (98) all the way. With the emergency
hose pressurized, turn on the emergency valve knob.
If any gas escapes out the end of the adapter, the one
way valve is faulty and must be rebuilt or replaced.
A one way valve repair kit is available for rebuild- Fig 2.5 - Diver donning a complete bail out system.
ing these valves (DSI Part # 525-330).

WARNING: Never dive if the one way an attachment point where the umbilical can be se-
valve is not operating properly. If the hose cured to the diver and a secure lift point when re-
or breathing gas/air fitting breaks near the moving an injured or unconscious diver from the
surface a serious injury could result to the water.
diver’s lungs and/or eyes. In extreme cases
this could be fatal. The one way valve must An emergency bail out cylinder must be used for all
be tested daily prior to the commencement diving operations. In some cases, a very small emer-
of diving operations. gency bail out cylinder is mounted horizontally
across the lower rear or front of the torso. Selection
of the size of the cylinder is usually determined by
2.7 EMERGENCY GAS SYSTEM the hazards associated with the diving job. When
determining the size of the emergency gas cylinder
If the divers, main gas supply fails, the diver must
to use, several factors must be considered. The divers
have another source of gas that will enable a safe
depth, the length of time the diver may be without
return to the dive station or to a point where a normal
the main gas supply, and the gas consumption rate.
gas supply can be reestablished. For this reason, an
Regardless of the cylinder used, it should be of suf-
emergency gas supply (bail out) cylinder must be used
ficient volume to allow the diver to ascend at a nor-
on all dives. The bail out cylinder is normally worn
mal rate or transit to a point where a normal gas sup-
on the back using a combination backpack and lift-
ply can be reestablished.
ing harness. In some cases divers wear a lifting har-
ness with a independent backpack for securing the In European countries that have adopted C.E. certi-
emergency gas cylinder. Regardless which configu- fication, only C.E. certified cylinders are allowed to
ration is used, a good quality lifting harness should be used and must have a minimum charged capacity
always be worn by the diver. The harness provides available to the diver of 1400 N/l (50 scf). The emer-

16
 SL-27 MANUAL
gency gas supply must be fitted with a good quality If the first stage develops a leak, the full pressure of
first stage regulator that has an intermediate pres- the tank could be placed on the low pressure hose.
sure adjusted to between 135-150 psig (9.3-10.5bar). This could cause the hose to burst. The overpressure
The regulator must be C.E. approved and have a DSI relief valve will bleed off any leak.
over pressure relief valve installed (Part # 200-017).
The relief must be adjusted to start lifting at approxi- WARNING: A standard Scuba sub-
mately 20 psig (1.4bar) above the regulator interme- mersible pressure gauge must be connected
diate setting. The purpose of the relief valve is to to the high pressure port on the first stage
allow pressure to vent off in the event the first stage so that the diver can monitor his emergency
regulator develops a leak or creeps. Without a pres- supply.
sure relief valve, the hose could rupture and the emer-
gency gas supply would be lost. WARNING: Never connect the main
gas supply hose from the diving control sta-
Most commercial divers wear a harness (separate tion to the emergency valve assembly. If this
from the weight belt) that is used for several pur- is done there is no one way valve protection
poses. The harness is fitted with large metal rings for the diver in the event of damage to the
(usually brass or stainless steel). The umbilical is umbilical or related equipment. The diver
hooked into one of these rings to keep any strain off could be exposed to a serious “squeeze”.
the helmet. In addition, the rings on the harness are The diver, at a minimum, must have his suit,
used to hang tools and other equipment. Usually the harness, and tank of emergency gas in place
harness is also designed to provide a means of lift- prior to connecting the quick disconnect
ing an unconscious diver from the water. This har- hose for the emergency supply.
ness is the best method of securing the emergency
breathing gas to the diver.
Make sure the emergency valve knob is turned off,
A small tank can be mounted horizontally on the otherwise the emergency gas supply will be used up
lower rear or front, while larger tanks are usually without the diver’s knowledge. Once the emergency
mounted vertically in the center back similar to a supply hose is connected, the tank valve is turned on
Scuba diver’s tank. Some harness designs incorpo- to pressurize the hose. In the event of an emergency
rate a cloth enclosure into which the tank fits. The due to a loss of the main gas supply, the emergency
entire tank, valve, and regulator are enclosed in fab- valve knob located on the side block is turned on
ric. This helps to prevent snagging. supplying gas to the side block assembly and the
demand regulator assembly.
The compressed air/gas tank must be fitted with a
regulator to reduce the pressure to less than 225 psig 2.8 SETTING UP TO DIVE
(16 bar) ambient diver pressure. The helmet cannot
properly handle more pressure without modification. 2.8.1 Flushing Out the Umbilical
The D.S.I. SuperFlow® first stage Scuba regulator
(Part #305-161) is the best device for this use. These Before connecting the umbilical to the helmet, the
regulators reduce the tank pressure to approximately umbilical must be flushed out to remove any dirt,
145 psig (9.9 bar). Connect the first stage hose with moisture, or other debris.
a set of quick disconnecting locking sleeves to the
emergency valve assembly located on the side block. Connect the topside umbilical end to the topside diver
Other good quality high performance Scuba regula- control console. Insure there is no pressure in the
tors may also be used. divers umbilical. Carefully uncap the helmet end of
the umbilical and hold securely while pointing in a
The first stage regulator must have at least two low safe direction, then slowly bring up gas pressure to
pressure ports. One port is used for the connector approximately 25-40 psig (1.7-2.7 bar). Allow the
hose to the emergency valve and the second is used gas to flow for at least l5 seconds, then secure. If the
to install an overpressure relief valve (Part #200-017). helmet is not going to be used immediately, it should
be recapped.
17
SL-27 MANUAL
2.8.2 Connecting the Umbilical to the Helmet If you are using waterproof connectors for your com-
munications, take extra care in handling these pieces.
When you connect the hose to the helmet be sure to To connect the male and female parts, align the large
use a wrench to hold the adapter, or inlet fitting, and pin on the male connector with the yellow mark on
a second wrench to turn the swivel fitting on the hose. the female connector. Press the two connectors to-
If this is not done, the adapter will turn inside the gether until you hear a distinct “pop”. Do not twist
one way valve. If this happens repeatedly the threads the connectors. Tape the two connectors with a bit
will wear and the valve will need to be replaced. The of electrical tape to prevent them from pulling apart.
connection between the hose and the helmet must
only be made up “snug”. Excessive force will de-
form and ruin the adapter. A second wrench must be
used when the helmet is disconnected as well, other-
wise the adapter and/or the one way valve assembly
may become loose and fail to make a seal.

Fig 2.7 - Connecting the waterproof connectors.

To separate the connectors remove the tape, grasp

them at the thickest part, place your thumbs against
each other, and push apart until the connectors are
disconnected. Do not twist the connectors. Do not
pull them apart while holding onto the thinner part
of the wire that is away from the connectors.

2.8.3 Opening the Breathing Gas Supply to the

Fig 2.6 - Connecting the umbilical to the helmet. Helmet

Prior to turning on the air supply for the helmet,

DANGER: If the one way valve or the check to see that the free flow valve is closed and
adapter is loosened this will allow breathing the regulator adjustment knob is all the way in.
gas to leak out of the breathing system. This Slowly bring up the gas pressure to the helmet to
could also result in a loss of all pressure to between 115-135 (8-9.3 bar). Slowly back out on
the helmet, leaving the diver with nothing to the regulator adjustment knob (98) until a slight
breathe. free flow develops, then turn the adjustment knob
in (clockwise) until the free flow just stops.

18
 SL-27 MANUAL
To properly check the breathing system on all of the
Kirby Morgan diving helmets you must completely
don the helmet.

2.8.4 Fogging Prevention

A thin film of anti-fogging solution may be applied

to the interior of the Lexan® face port prior to the
dive to help prevent fogging during the dive. A mild
liquid dish washing detergent, or other commercially
available anti-fogging solutions, may be applied with
a soft rag or paper towel to the interior of the port.
The diver should use a solution which has been found
satisfactory in the past. However, do not use an aero-
sol spray on the Lexan™ lens. The propellants in
some aerosol dispensers cause damage to the Lexan™.

DANGER: Never use any aerosol pro-

pelled sprays near the face port of the Su-
perLite-27. The Freon propellant used in
these aerosols can invisibly damage the
Lexan™ face port and cause it to shatter
Fig 2.8 - Donning the neck dam.
upon impact from any strong blow. If the face
port fails underwater the helmet will flood
and drowning may result.
To don the neck dam, hold the neck dam/ring as-
sembly (148) vertically, in front of your chest, so
2.8.5 Donning The Super Lite - 27 that the large end of the assembly where the pull strap
All donning procedures must be done by the diver (142) is mounted is on top. The pull strap and chin
until he is thoroughly at home with the helmet. This strap (146) should both be facing your chest. Spread
will train for familiarity. the neck dam opening by pulling against the palms
of both hands while supporting the weight of the as-
To dress in, the neck dam ring assembly must first sembly by grasping the sides of the rings with your
be pulled down over the diver’s head. Prior to don- thumbs. Do not press the tips of your fingers into the
ning the neck dam ring assembly it must first be prop- latex neck dam material or you may tear it.
erly lubricated if you are using a latex neck dam.
Use only pure talcum powder to lubricate the neck Lift the neck dam over your head. Both the pull strap
dam. Never use scented powders, such as baby pow- and the chin strap should be on the underside of the
der. These contain oils that will damage the latex. neck dam ring assembly, closest to your head. Care-
fully pull the neck dam ring assembly down over
Be sure to loosen the chin strap (146) prior to don- your head and adjust the neck dam.
ning the neck dam. To loosen the strap, hold the neck
dam/ring assembly with your right hand, place your The neck dam (140) is always turned up. This is
thumb under the rounded end of the plastic buckle very important! With the neck dam turned down,
and lift away from the neck dam. the helmet will vent air from the neck dam causing
the regulator to free flow. This will make the helmet
very uncomfortable. Always keep the neck dam
turned up!

19
SL-27 MANUAL

Fig 2.10 - Donning the helmet.

Fig 2.9 - Adjusting the neck dam. Now, the neck dam/ring assembly (148) is resting
directly under the hat on the diver’s shoulders. The
The neck dam ring assembly must be oriented so the diver inserts the tongue on the neck dam/ring assem-
brass “tongue” on the front of the neck dam ring as- bly into the swing tongue catch on the bottom front
sembly is pointed to the front of your body, in front of the helmet. Grasp the base of the helmet on either
of and below your chin. You should be able to look side with your fingers and push the neck dam/ring
down and see the brass tongue sticking out from up into the neck ring on the base of the helmet . The
underneath the neck dam ring assembly when you neck dam ring fits very snugly in the neck ring. The
are wearing the assembly and it is oriented properly. diver then tilts his head and the helmet forward and
swings the locking collar up over his shoulders.
With the diver holding the helmet, the tender should
now connect the quick disconnect fittings for the
bailout supply. Open the regulator adjustment knob
and the defogger control knob for a steady flow from
both just prior to the diver dressing into the helmet.

With the helmet face down, pull the sealed pull pins
and open the locking collar/neck pad assembly fully.
Be sure the head cushion is attached to the bottom of
the helmet. Pull the nose block device knob out all
the way. With the locking collar/neck pad assembly
fully open, lift the helmet and place it over your head.
Lower the helmet onto the back of your head first,
then pivot it forward until your face is in position
against the oral nasal mask. The locking collar/neck
pad assembly must be open and hanging down be-
hind your shoulders.

Fig. 2.11 - The diver inserts the tongue on the neck dam/ring
20 assembly into the swing tongue catch.
 SL-27 MANUAL

Fig. 2.12 - Push the neck dam/ring up into the neck ring on
the base of the helmet . Fig. 2.13 - Both sealed pull pins must properly click into
position on the base of the helmet.

The sealed pull pins must be in the locking position. Adjust the chin strap by pulling on the free end of
If they are in the open position, rotate until they snap the strap until it is comfortably snug.
into the locking position. Grab the neck ring on the
helmet with your fingers on the outside of the ring
and using your thumbs, push the locking collar/neck
pad assembly up into position until it locks with the
sealed pull pins. If you have not positioned the sealed
pull pins into the locking position you may do it now
with the locking collar/neck pad assembly in place.

DANGER: Both sealed pull pins must

properly click into position on the base of
the helmet. If the pins are not engaged cor-
rectly the neck dam/ring assembly may not
seal and the helmet could flood. The diver
could drown as a result. Do not dive the
helmet unless the pins are operating cor-
rectly.

Fig. 2.14 - Adjust the chin strap

21
SL-27 MANUAL
2.8.6 Testing the Breathing System
DANGER: Do not perform this test
without an assistant stationed at the gas
Test the defogger system by turning on and off the
supply console. Do not perform this test un-
defogger control knob (3). The regulator (113) should
less the diver is stationed immediately adja-
be adjusted by turning the adjustment knob (98) out
cent to the diver’s air manifold and you are
until a slight steady flow starts, then back in until
certain the air is on to the manifold. If the
the flow just stops. Next, the demand regulator sys-
diver is unable to flow air to the helmet, ei-
tem is checked for proper function: breathe in and
ther through the umbilical or the bailout, he
out. Inhalation and exhalation effort should be nearly
may not be able to remove it easily. To break
unnoticeable. Press in on the purge button in the regu-
the seal in this situation, the diver must put
lator cover (101). This should produce a strong burst
his hand between the neck dam and the
of breathing gas.
neck, and pull the neck dam away from the
neck. A tender must be standing by to as-
2.8.7 Sealing Integrity Check
sist the diver in removing the helmet if
needed.
If there is any doubt that the helmet is sealing prop-
erly, perform the following test prior to diving. To remove the SuperLite-27, start by pulling out (for-
ward) on each sealed pull pin and turning so each
Turn the supply gas off at the dive control system remains in the open position. Tilt your head, and the
and bleed the umbilical. helmet, forward and swing the locking collar assem-
bly back behind your shoulders. Tilt your head up-
To perform this test, the diver must have an assistant right again and push the swinging tongue catch (126)
standing by. The assistant should be in control of the forward with one hand and hold it in this position.
gas supply console so that the air may be turned on Insert the four fingers of your hand between the chin
instantly, or the diver must be ready to run a hand strap (146) and the neck dam (140). Grasp the chin
between his neck and the sealing neck dam inorder strap and pull down on it, towards your chest. This
to pull the neck dam away from the neck to allow will break the seal between the neck dam/neck ring
breathing. With the neck dam ring on the diver’s and the helmet neck ring on the base of the helmet.
head, the helmet is installed and the locking collar Once the seal is broken the neck ring assembly will
closed. When the diver attempts to inhale, a suction come loose from the helmet.
on the neck dam is formed, indicating he is achiev-
ing a good seal. The diver must then turn the air on
immediately so that he can breathe. If the diver does
not turn the air on he will not be able to breathe,
unless the neck dam is pulled away from his neck.

Fig. 2.15 - Push the swinging tongue catch forward.

22
 SL-27 MANUAL
2.9.2 Attaching the Umbilical to the Harness
The umbilical must now be hooked to the diver’s
harness by means of a suitable clip that is bound to
the umbilical. Some divers and companies prefer a
quick release clip and others prefer a clip that is
screwed together so the diver cannot easily remove
it from his harness. The securing of the umbilical
keeps the pull of the hose at the diver’s harness and
not on the helmet.

WARNING: Never dive without attach-

ing the umbilical to some type of harness or
clip on the diver’s body. Never allow the um-
bilical to pull on the helmet directly or the
diver could suffer a neck injury.

2.9.3 Diver Dons Helmet

The diver dons the helmet as per Section 2.8.5 for

the SuperLite-27.

2.9.4 Diver Check Gas Flow Systems

The diver must check out the breathing system him-

Fig. 2.16 - Grasp the chin strap and pull down on it. self as the tender finishes dressing him. Operate the
defogger valve, the demand regulator, and the purge
button to assure yourself of proper operation before
entering the water.
Pull the nose block device knob (85) away from your
face and lift the helmet off of your head. A good ten- 2.9.5 Communications Check
der will be prepared to help the diver with the re-
moval of the helmet as required. The communications system, sending and receiving,
should be checked at this point.
Reach in and spread the neck dam, pulling against
2.9.6 Diver Ready
the sides of the neck dam (140) with the palms of
both hands. Slide the neck dam/neck ring assembly The diver is now ready to enter the water. He should
(148) forward so your chin will clear the chin strap. be assisted to the water if needed. If a welding lens
Lift the neck dam over your head. is being used, make sure it is hinged up all the way if
the diver is making a jump entry. We do not recom-
2.9 DIVING PROCEDURES mend jump entries. A quick overall inspection by
2.9.1 Standing By to Dive the tender is done and the diver is given the OK.

The diver may wear the neck dam ring assembly 2.9.7 Water Entry and Descent
without discomfort if he is standing by to make a
dive. However, the helmet itself must always be the The tender must make sure there is a sufficient length
last thing put on before the diver enters the water. of umbilical clear if the diver is using a jump entry.
Everything else must be ready to go before the diver There must be no chance of the umbilical hanging
puts the helmet on so he won’t have to support the up when the diver jumps. Also, the defogger valve
weight of the helmet while out of the water. should be turned on to overpressure the helmet to
prevent the possibility of water pressure from invert-
ing the helmet exhaust valve when hitting the water.
23
SL-27 MANUAL
The diver must report to the surface immediately After clearing, cautiously check for additional flood-
after the entry. It is a good policy to descend 10 or 20 ing. If the helmet continues to take on water, return
FSW (3-6 MSW), pause and check the regulator to the diving station, swimming with the water dump
adjustment knob to ensure adjustment for the least valve positioned at the lowest part of the hat: that is
breathing resistance. (The purpose of this adjustment with the diver’s face forward and slightly tilted to
knob is to allow the diver the ability to compensate the left. Keep the free flow knob on. This increases
for variations in umbilical supply pressure. This the air/gas pressure slightly inside the hat and keeps
adjustment device operates by simply increasing or the water out. Any incoming water is automatically
decreasing the amount of spring bias tension on the purged.
demand regulator inlet valve. The intent of this bias
adjustment device is strictly to allow the diver to 2.10.2 Inhalation Resistance
make adjustments for variations in umbilical supply If breathing becomes difficult, adjust the demand
pressure. This adjustment device is not intended as a regulator adjustment knob (47), for easier breathing
minimum-maximum device. Minimum and maximum by rotating the adjustment knob counter clockwise.
applies to supply pressure only. The adjustment knob If the breathing does not get noticeably better, press
should be adjusted by the diver to be at the easiest the purge button in the regulator cover (101). If a
breathing setting at all times. Diving a DSI helmet or surge of gas does not flow with this action, open the
band mask with a bias setting greater than that just emergency valve (27). If the flow is noticeably bet-
necessary to keep the demand valve from free flowing ter, immediately notify topside that you are on emer-
increases the work of breathing and reduces the gency gas. Insure your umbilical is clear and return
diver's ability to perform heavy work.) to the stage or decent line. The diver should stay in
Then the diver checks in with the surface before communication with topside personnel and make
descending to the job. If a closed bell is being used, preparations to abort the dive. The console operator
the diver enters the water from the bell and pauses for should check to ensure the supply pressure to the
a short time outside the trunk until he is sure all diver is at the proper pressure.
systems are operating properly.

During the decent the communications must be 2.10.3 Gas Flow Stops
checked again and the diver supply pressure should
be adjusted as necessary to maintain the required A stop of flow in the demand regulator system (113)
over-bottom pressure. It may be necessary for the usually indicates the main gas supply has stopped.
diver to readjust the demand regulator by means of The diver should first open the emergency valve (27)
the adjustment knob (47) once at the work site to by turning the knob (24). If there is still no flow from
compensate for the variation in umbilical supply the demand regulator, the defogger valve (1-10)
pressure. should be opened. Keep in mind that if the defogger
valve is left open, the bail out bottle will drain very
2.10 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES quickly, particularly if the diver is deep.

2.10.1 Flooding Immediately notify topside, check to insure your um-

bilical is clear and return to the diving station using
In the event of partial or complete flooding, the diver the emergency breathing supply. Avoid making a
may clear the helmet quickly by tilting the helmet to rapid ascent if at all possible.
the left and activating the defogger control knob (3)
or by pressing in on the manual purge button in the
center of the regulator cover (101).

The water dump valve (71-75) is located on the lower

left side of the helmet. The opening in this valve is
much larger than the opening in the regulator ex-
haust valve. By placing this valve in the lowest posi-
tion water will exit the helmet more easily.
24
 SL-27 MANUAL
behind your shoulders. You will need to pull down
DANGER: Rapid ascent is dangerous. on the chin strap and the swing tongue catch to break
It can lead to air embolism or decompres- the seal between the neck dam ring and the helmet
sion sickness. Air/gas embolism can cause ring and to disengage the neck ring from the swing
immediate loss of consciousness and/or tongue catch. A good tender will be prepared to help
death. Even on a no decompression dive, a the diver with the removal of the helmet as required.
rapid ascent may cause decompression
sickness. A diver must only make a rapid The emergency gas supply hose may be disconnected
ascent when he is in immediate danger of while the diver leaves the helmet on or while he holds
death by drowning or asphyxiation. the hat after removal. The quick disconnect makes
this procedure very easy. The tender should then
Once at the surface, or inside the bell, the diver may unfasten the umbilical from the harness and take the
remove the helmet if needed. helmet from the diver and set it aside. (Closing the
locking collar/neck pad assembly onto the helmet
2.10.4 Demand Regulator Free Flow before setting the hat down on a rough deck will help
protect the helmet neck ring from damage). The har-
If the demand regulator free flows, adjust the knob
ness and bailout bottle is then removed.
(98) in (clockwise) until it stops. If the free flow can-
not be stopped, the dive should be aborted. Even if
2.11.3 Storage of the Helmet Between Dives
there is no serious problem to the diver, the dive
should be aborted and the problem with the regula-
If the helmet is not going to be used for a period of
tor corrected.
time, the head cushion (40), should be removed. The
head cushion should be dried and replaced in the hat
2.11 POST DIVE PROCEDURES before storage. The regulator adjustment knob (98)
should be unscrewed all the way out (counterclock-
2.11.1 Removing the Equipment
wise) until the next dive. When the helmet is com-
After the diver is well clear of the water he may re- pletely dry, or the diver is ready to leave the job, the
move the helmet. If the diver is working out of a helmet should be stored in the carrying bag to pro-
stage he must not remove the helmet until the stage tect it.
is on deck.
If the head cushion becomes wet it may be dried out
WARNING: Never remove the diving by removing it from the helmet, squeezing excess
helmet while you are in the stage. If you fall water out, and letting the head cushion hang dry or
out of the stage with the helmet off but still putting it in a clothes drier.
attached to your harness it may be very dif-
ficult to swim. Drowning may result.
WARNING: Use only the air dry set-
ting when drying head cushion foam in a
2.11.2 Removing the SuperLite-27 drier. Use of a higher setting could cause the
foam to melt or start a fire.
Remove the helmet by pulling the sealed pull pins
out (forward) and turning them until they are locked
open in the extended position. Tilt your head and
the helmet forward and swing the locking collar back

25
SL-27 MANUAL

NOTES

26
 SL-27 MANUAL

CHAPTER 3.0

TROUBLESHOOTING
3.1 GENERAL
The SuperLite-27 is a highly reliable diving helmet which should not malfunction if proper preventative main-

tenance procedures are followed. Most problems encountered in using the helmet can be easily remedied. The

following information covers most potential operating difficulties.

3.2 COMMUNICATIONS MALFUNCTION

Symptoms Probable Cause Remedy

No sound at either com box or Activate switch and adjust

Communication box not on.
helmet. volume.
Communications incorrectly
Switch terminal wires.
hooked up.
Plug into terminals.
Communications not hooked up.

Communicator not functional. Replace communicator.

Clean terminal (136) with
Communications weak or Terminals in helmet covered
wire brush to bright, shiny
broken up. with corrosion.
metal.
Communications only work Splice wire if damage is minor.
Break in diver's communication
when wire is wiggled back and Replace wire if damage is
wire.
forth. major.
If connector is suspect,
Communications only work
Break in waterproof remove from line and test line
when connector (137) is
connector. for integrity prior to replacing
wiggled back and forth.
connector.
Diver speech weak or not Replace microphone as per
Microphone in helmet dead.
working. manual. (Section 7.15.5)
No sound at either
Communicator not functional. Replace communicator.
communicator or helmet.

27
SL-27 MANUAL

3.3 ONE WAY VALVE MALFUNCTION

Symptoms Probable Cause Remedy

One way valve (37) allows Disassemble valve, clean, and
Foreign matter in valve.
back flow. rebuild. (Section 6.2)
Disassemble valve, clean, and
One way valve doesn't flow any
Foreign matter in valve. rebuild.
g as .

3.4 SIDE VALVE MALFUNCTION

Symptoms Probable Cause Remedy

Defogger valve can't be shut
off. Helmet free flows through Seat assembly (10) damaged. Replace seat assembly.
defogger.
Defogger valve will not flow Turn air on to diver's supply
No air in umbilical.
g as . topside.
Defogger valve will not flow Foreign matter in side block Disassemble side block and
gas. (12), or one way valve (37). clean.
Defogger valve knob (3) hard to
Valve stem (9) bent. Replace valve stem.
turn.

3.5 WATER LEAKAGE INTO HELMET

Symptoms Probable Cause Remedy

Water dump valve (73)
Water leakage into helmet. Seat or replace valve.
damaged or stuck open.

Exhaust valve (112) damaged or

Seat or replace valve.
stuck open.

Communication module O-
Replace O-ring.
ring (115) extruded or
damaged.
Diaphragm (100) damaged or
Seat or replace diaphragm.
not seated properly.

O-ring (138) in neck dam ring Replace O-ring.

damaged or missing.

Port retainer screws (80) loose. Tighten screws.

Neck dam (140) torn. Replace neck dam.

Hair caught between O-ring Remove hair from this space

(138) and base of helmet (58).

28
 SL-27 MANUAL

3.6 DEMAND REGULATOR MALFUNCTION

Symptoms Probable Cause Remedy
Regulator (113) continuously Adjustment knob (98) not
Screw in adjustment knob.
free flows. screwed in.

Supply pressure too high. Dirty Adjust supply pressure lower

or damaged inlet valve or seat. than 225 P.S.I. (15 bar) o.b.

Regulator out of adjustment. Adjust regulator. (see sec. 6.7.10)

Regulator (113) continuously
free flows when underwater Neck dam (140) turned down. Neck dam must be turned up.
only.
Hair caught between O-ring
Clear hair out.
(138) and base of helmet (58).
Neck dam torn or too loose. Repair or replace neck dam.
Adjustment knob screwed too
Regulator is hard breathing. Screw adjustment knob out.
far in.
Increase supply pressure to
Regulator does not supply gas. Gas supply pressure too low. minimum of 115 PSI (8 bar)
o.b. over ambient.
Regulator is out of adjustment. Adjust regulator. (see sec. 6.7.10)
Turn diver's gas supply on
No gas in umbilical.
topside.
Disassemble regulator, clean,
Blockage in breathing system.
and adjust. (see sec. 6.7.6 - 6.7.10)

3.7 EMERGENCY VALVE MALFUNCTION

Symptoms Probable Cause Remedy

Bail out bottle drained
Stem (20) fails to seat in valve
without diver opening valve Replace valve body.
body (19).
(27).
Leaking over-pressure valve on
Service valve. (Sec. 6.5)
bail-out regulator.
Leaking bail-out regulator on
Service regulator.
bottle.
Stem (20) difficult to turn. Stem (20) bent. Replace stem.
Disassemble, clean,
Valve (27) will not flow gas. Foreign matter in valve.
reassemble. (Sec. 6.5.1 - 6.5.3)

29
SL-27 MANUAL

CHAPTER 4.0

INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE TIMETABLE
FOR SUPERLITE-27

Routine and preventative maintenance is critical and must be done on a routine basis. All parts and
components of the helmet have a useful service life and eventually will require replacement. Some items
when properly maintained can go many years before replacement is necessary. It is mandatory that a routine
and periodic schedule of maintenance, inspection, and testing be carried out. Section 4.0 delineates the
recommended minimum maintenance intervals. Helmets used in contaminated waters or in welding, burning
and jetting operations must be serviced and inspected more frequently. If a situation arises that casts any
doubt as to the serviceability of a part or component it should be replaced. If the user is in doubt about the
servicability or just has questions in general contact your local DSI authorized repair facility or DSI at Tel-
805-965-8538.

4.1 DAILY MAINTENANCE 3) Rebuild one way valve (order One Way
See Section 5.4 for details of daily Valve Repair Kit, DSI Part #525-330.
maintenance. See Section 6.2.

4.2 MONTHLY MAINTENANCE 4) Replace communications set (134).

See Section 5.5 for details of monthly See Section 7.15.
maintenance.
5) Replace whisker rubber (86) and water
dump shroud (74). See Section 6.9.2.
4.3 EVERY SIX MONTHS OR
200 OPERATING HOURS 6) Replace water dump valve (73).
See Section 6.10.2.
1) Replace inlet valve (111) and nut (104).
See Section 6.7. 7) Replace waterproof connector (137).
See Section 7.15.7.
2) Replace communications set (134).
See Section 7.15. 8) Replace O-rings (81, 82, 48, 76, 115, 138).

4.4 YEARLY OR 9) Replace oral nasal valve (52).

400 OPERATING HOURS See Section 6.8.

1 ) Rebuild side block assembly 10) Replace oral nasal (50). See Section 6.8.
(order Side Block Repair Kit,
DSI Part # 525-311). 11) Replace neck dam (140). See Section 7.4.
See Section 6.3.

2) Rebuild demand regulator assembly

(order Regulator Repair Kit,
DSI Part #525-309).
See Section 6.7.

30
 SL-27 MANUAL
CHAPTER 5.0

GENERAL PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

5.1 INTRODUCTION

This section covers the preventative mainte-

nance necessary on the SuperLite-27 diver’s
helmet. A helmet that is kept clean and in good
repair will offer far better service to the user.
This helmet is designed for easy access to all
areas for proper inspection and servicing. Num-
bers appearing in parenthesis below are “loca-
tion” numbers that are used in the blow apart
illustration at the rear of this manual.

5.2 REQUIRED TOOLS, CLEANING AGENTS,

LUBRICATION
Fig. 5.1 - Tools required to do proper maintenance on the
All Diving Systems Internal Helmets and Masks are SuperLite-27.
designed with the professional diver in mind. Most
maintenance can be performed by the diver using Torque screwdriver with the following attach-
common tools and this manual. There are some ments:
repairs however, that must be accomplished only by 1/8, 1/4, and 3/8 inch flat blade screwdrivers
DSI authorized repair facilities. This includes fiber- #2 Phillips blade screwdriver
glass and helmet neck ring repairs, face port inserts 7/64 inch Allen wrench driver
and sealed pin overhauls. For technical assistance 9/64 inch Allen wrench driver
please telephone your nearest authorized dealer or 5/32 inch Allen wrench driver
call Diving Systems International at (805) 965 8538.
Open end wrenches in the following sizes:
Every diver should carry sufficient tools and 3/8 inch
spare parts to maintain his/her helmet in top 7/16 inch
working condition. It is very important to use 9/16 inch
wrenches of the correct size rather than adjust- 3/4 inch
able wrenches when possible. Adjustable 7/8 inch
wrenches tend to slip and can round the edges of 1 inch
soft brass parts. The following wrenches and
tools are required to maintain the SuperLite-27: Two adjustable wrenches, 6 & 8 inches in length.
3/8 inch flat blade screwdriver with a notch in
Torque wrench with the following attachments: the center of the tip.
1 3/8 inch crows foot 1/4 inch flat blade stubby screwdriver
7/16 inch open end wrench 2 needle nose pliers
9/16 inch open end wrench diagonal cutting pliers
5/8 inch open end wrench slip joint pliers
11/16 inch open end wrench 3/32 inch punch
3/4 inch open end wrench putty knife
13/16 inch open end wrench O-ring removal tool
7/8 inch open end wrench DSI regulator repair tools: DSI Part #525-620
1 inch open end wrench ball peen hammer
31
SL-27 MANUAL
tie wraps: DSI Part # 520-042
DANGER: Never use any aerosol pro-
Silicone grease
pelled sprays near the face port of the Su-
Loctite™ 222 Thread locker
perLite-27. The Freon propellent used in
#320, 400, 600 wet/dry sandpaper
these aerosols can invisibly damage the
rubbing compound
polycarbonate face port and cause it to shat-
automotive wax
ter upon impact from any strong blow. If the
clean rags
face port fails underwater the helmet will
5.2.1 Component and Parts Cleaning flood and drowning may result.
The helmet and components should only be cleaned
using a mild solution of dishwashing detergent such DANGER: The standard SuperLite-27
as JOY ™ or Dawn ™ hand dishwashing detergent. is not intended for oxygen service as it
Parts that have corrosion should be washed and comes from the factory. If the user intends
scrubbed with a nylon bristle brush and then soaked to use this helmet for such service, all parts
in a solution of 50% white vinegar and water for 30- must be cleaned for oxygen safety, oxygen
60 minutes followed by a light brushing and a good compatible O-rings must be installed, and lu-
fresh water rinse. Helmet liners and rubber compo- brication with an oxygen safe lubricant must
nents should be cleaned using a mild soapy solution be maintained. Only lubricants such as Kry-
followed by a good rinsing and air-dried. DO NOT tox or Christo lube™ are acceptable for oxy-
use hair dryers or high heat to dry the rubber or fabric gen service.
components, high temperatures will severely reduce
the serviceability of these components. To clean DANGER: In-water decompression
parts heavily encrusted with salt we recommend with oxygen is a specialized procedure. All
a dilute solution of white vinegar and a tooth- parts of the diving system must be oxygen
brush. compatible and cleaned for oxygen service.
Any part of the system (i.e., manifolds,
5.2.2 Component and Parts Lubrication hoses, fittings, etc.) which are exposed to
All parts on the helmet that require lubrication must compressed air must be considered con-
be lubricated sparingly with food grade silicone taminated and must not be used again until
grease. DSI recommends Dow corning 111 or equiva- cleaned for oxygen service.
lent. If the helmet is intended to be used with breath- 5.2.3 Teflon Tape
ing mixtures greater than 50% oxygen, it should be All pipe thread fittings used on the DSI helmets,
cleaned for oxygen service, and components requir- masks and components require sealing with Teflon
ing lubrication should be lubricated with a suitable tape. DO NOT USE LIQUID SEALANT. When
oxygen compatible lubricant such as Krytox ™ or installing Teflon tape on pipe threads, apply the
Christo lube ™. DO NOT USE AEROSOL SPRAY tape starting two threads back from the end of the
LUBRICANTS. Many aerosol propellants will dam- fitting. Apply the tape in a clockwise Direction
age plastic. Avoid lubricant contact with plastic parts. under tension, 11/2 wraps is all that is needed.
Applying more than 11/2 wraps of tape is not
recommended. The use of more than 11/2 wraps
DANGER: All parts on the SuperLite- could cause excess Teflon tape to travel into the
27 must be adjusted to their proper torque breathing system.
specifications. See Appendix 1 for a com-
plete listing of torque specifications for each DANGER: Do not allow any excess
part. Failure to adjust parts to the recom- Teflon tape to cover the end of the pipe
mended specifications could lead to helmet thread fittings. Loose pieces of Teflon tape
failure and accidents. This could be fatal. can interfere with the performance of hel-
met components and may block the diver's
air supply. This could lead to death
through suffocation.
32
 SL-27 MANUAL
5.2.4 RTV Sealant
Certain Components used in almost all DSI helmets WARNING: Never disconnect any
and masks use RTV adhesive / sealant to provide hose from the helmet unless all gas has been
bonding and sealing. DSI recommends Dow Corn- vented from the hose first. If the hose is dis-
ing ™ RTV 732 multi purpose sealant. When seal- connected with pressure in the line the fit-
ant is applied the user must use care to insure excess tings may be damaged. In addition, the hose
sealant is wiped clean so as not to interfere with other can whip about causing injury to anyone
components. Sealant should be allowed to cure for standing nearby.
24 hours before equipment is used.

5.2.5 Thread Locker

DSI recommends Loctite ™ 222 as the thread lock-
ing compound that should be used on components
that call for a thread locker. Threads should be clean
and dry prior to applying thread locker. Ensure that
all excess thread locker has been removed. Allow
thread locker to cure for at least 3 hours prior to us-
ing the component.

5.3 GENERAL
Each diver must establish his own minimum
standards for the care of his helmet. We offer
recommendations here with the suggestion that
the diver establish for himself what is necessary
to provide a good working unit. Use of the
helmet in fresh water will require a timetable
for maintenance procedures different from that
when the helmet is used in salt water. Using the
helmet in sea water while jetting in sand will
necessitate increased maintenance. Use of the
helmet in a heavy oil and/or chemical environ-
ment may make it necessary to replace rubber
parts to assure proper function.
Fig. 5.2 - Cover the air inlet and emergency valve openings
5.4 DAILY MAINTENANCE with dust caps when not in use.

The following steps must be performed daily at 2) Place a protective cap over both the air inlet
the completion of diving operations. (36) and the emergency valve inlet (19) to pre-
vent foreign matter from entering the valves.
1) Disconnect the helmet from the diving hose
and bail-out bottle. Make sure the air is off and 3) If the head cushion is wet, remove it from the
the breathing system of the helmet is unpressur- helmet and rinse it with fresh water. The head
ized. To vent the system, open the free flow cushion is fastened into the helmet with snap
valve knob (3) and emergency valve knob (24) tabs and pulls out easily. To ensure that the
until all gas flow stops. head cushion is dry for future use you may want
to remove the head cushion foam. However, do
not remove the foam unless it is absolutely
necessary. It will dry properly without remov-
ing the foam.

33
SL-27 MANUAL
4) If the head cushion is wet, the chin cushion dealer or Diving Systems International for ser-
(41) is probably wet, too. Like the head cush- vice. Do not attempt to service these mecha-
ion, the chin cushion is fastened into the helmet nisms by yourself.
with snap tabs. Remove it from the helmet,
rinse it with fresh water, and allow it to dry.
DANGER: The sealed pull pins must
5) Remove the communications assembly (135) operate smoothly with a positive action. If
from the helmet so it can dry completely. Avoid the pins do not release properly the diver
getting water on the oral nasal microphone and may not be able to remove the helmet
earphones. Remove the earphone covers from quickly if necessary. If the pins do not lock
the earphones so they can dry completely. with a positive action the locking collar as-
sembly will not lock properly and the hel-
6) Rinse the helmet thoroughly with fresh wa-
met may come off the diver’s head. If this
ter. Turn the free flow valve knob (3), emer-
happens underwater, drowning could result.
gency valve knob (24), and regulator adjust-
ment knob (98) while rinsing to prevent salt
from accumulating under these valves. Run
water under the regulator cover (101), and in 5.5.2 Neck Dam Ring Assembly
the regulator body (90) through the air delivery Inspect the neck dam (140) carefully. There
tube located in the oral nasal (50). Operate the must be no holes in the neck dam. If you are
sealed pull pins (130) as you run water over using a latex neck dam, the latex must be firm,
them. not sticky. If there is any damage to the latex
the neck dam must be replaced. Do not patch a
Wipe the inside of the helmet out with a clean, latex neck dam. Apply talcum powder to the
damp rag. Do not depress the purge button neck dam prior to storage and to prepare it for
while rinsing the regulator as this action will the next dive.
permit foreign matter back into the inlet valve
and seat.
7) Screw the demand regulator adjustment knob
(98) all the way out. This will prolong the life of
the inlet valve seat (111) and keep the internal
adjustment correct.
8) Lubricate the shaft of the nose block device
(51) with silicone grease.
9) Rinse the neck dam assembly (148) and allow
to dry. Remove the O-ring (138) from the neck
dam ring, clean and lubricate.
10) If the neck dam is damaged (140) it must be
replaced.

5.5 MONTHLY MAINTENANCE

(OR BETWEEN JOBS)

5.5.1 Locking Collar Assembly and Helmet Ring

Check the two sealed pull pins (130) to make
sure they operate smoothly and engage the pins
on the locking collar properly. If the sealed pull
pins (130)stick or do not provide adequate ten-
sion it is essential to return your helmet to your Fig. 5.3 - Check the neck dam for holes.
34
 SL-27 MANUAL

DANGER: Never patch a torn or punc- 5.5.4 Communications Inspection

tured neck dam. If the patch comes off un- Visually inspect the earphones (132, 133), mi-
derwater the helmet could flood and/or the crophone (131), wires, lugs, and communica-
demand regulator assembly may not func- tions posts (136). Test each component for
tion properly. A damaged neck dam must be proper operation. Connect to the deck amplifier
replaced. and talk back and forth. Replace any weak ear-
phone or microphone.
Inspect the O-ring (138) on the neck dam ring
Open the earphone rubber covers and remove
assembly. It must be in good condition with no
the protectors. Allow to dry thoroughly. Re-
nicks, tears, or cracking. Replace the O-ring if
it shows signs of wear. place defective earphones.

Fig. 5.5 Uncover the earphones so they may dry.

Fig. 5.4 - Removing the head cushion.

5.5.3 Head Cushion and Chin Cushion

Remove the foam from the head cushion (40)
and inspect it for wear. If the foam is worn or
crumbling it must be replaced (order DSI Part
#510-623).

Inspect the chin cushion (41). It, too, must be in Fig. 5.6 The nose block O-rings must be regularly
good condition. Replace it if the foam is worn or lubricated.
has started to crumble.

35
SL-27 MANUAL
5.5.5 Lubricate Nose Block O-Rings
Tools Required:
7/16 inch Open End wrench

1) Unscrew the nose block device packing nut

(84) and lubricate the two O-rings (82) and
main shaft (51). Retighten the nut just to the
point where the nose block device will still
slide, but requires a firm push or pull.

2) Test the shaft to ensure that it will still slide

freely at this time. If it does not, loosen or
tighten the nut (84) just enough to permit the
shaft to slide properly.

5.5.6 Lubricate Water Dump Valve

1) Remove the tie wrap (75) from the water

dump shroud (74) by cutting it off. Take care Fig. 5.7 - Removing the water dump shroud will expose the
not to damage the shroud. water dump valve. Lightly lubricate it with silicone grease or
replace as needed.
2) Inspect the water dump valve and lubricate
with a small amount of silicone grease. Rub the
grease into the valve thoroughly leaving no
excess lubricant to collect sand or other debris.
Replace the shroud and install a new tie wrap.
Cut the tail off the end of the tie wrap.

36
 SL-27 MANUAL
CHAPTER 6.0
BREATHING SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS

6.1 INTRODUCTION

This chapter covers the maintenance and repair of To disassemble and inspect the one way valve as-
all components of the breathing system. The breath- sembly (38):
ing system includes the one way valve, the emer-
gency valve, the side block, the bent tube assembly, 1) The one way valve assembly must be removed
the demand regulator, and the oral/nasal mask. All from the side block (12). Use the open end wrench
parts disassembled should be thoroughly cleaned to remove it.
using the methods described in chapter 5 section 5.2.
Components that require the use of lubricants, seal- 2) After the one way valve has been removed, use
ing and thread locking compounds should also be two wrenches or hold the hex part of the body (29)
done see chapter 5 section 5.2. Most fasteners have in a soft jaw vise while removing the seat (35) with
a torque value, it is imperative that all fasteners which a wrench.
have a torque value be tightened to the torque speci-
fications as outlined by the procedure, or as listed in As the seat is removed, the wiper (34) and the O-
appendix 1. If in doubt as to what the proper torque ring (33) slide out in place in a groove on the seat.
setting is, contact your local authorized repair facil- The poppet (31) and the poppet O-ring (32) usually
ity or DSI. come out in the seat being followed by the spring
(30). The only functional part remaining in the valve
6.2 ONE WAY VALVE body is a non-moving, pressed-in cage. The func-
tion of the cage is to prevent the poppet O-ring from
6.2.1 Disassembly Of The One Way Valve blowing out of place during high flows.

Tools Required: 3) Inspect the body interior for foreign matter of

Soft Jaw Vice any type and clean, if necessary.
1 inch Open End Wrench Attachment on Torque
Wrench 4) Inspect the seat, wiper, O-ring, poppet O-ring
(If no vise is available use a backup 1 inch open end and poppet for wear, replace if necessary. Be sure
wrench) each part is clean. A repair kit is available for re-
placement parts. (DSI Part #525-330)
CAUTION: Do not use pliers on the
main body of the one way valve. You may 5) Place silicone lubricant on the components, then
damage the valve if pliers are used. wipe clean with a non-lint producing cloth. Be care-
ful to wipe the poppet and poppet O-ring thoroughly,
removing nearly all silicone to prevent foreign ma-
terials from sticking to these components.

6) Inspect the spring and clean or replace if neces-

sary.

6.2.2 Reassembly of the One Way Valve

1) Slide the new O-ring (32) over the poppet (31).

Fig 6.1
37
SL-27 MANUAL
6.3 SIDE BLOCK ASSEMBLY

6.3.1 General
Fig 6.2 - Correct assembly order of the one way valve.

2) Insert the new spring (30) into the valve body (29), The side block assembly is held in place on the hel-
followed by the poppet (31). met shell by a stud, flat washer, lock washer, nut,
and a machine screw. The screw does some secur-
3) Next, install the new O-ring (33) and new wiper ing but its main function is to prevent rotation of the
(34) on the seat (35). Thread the seat (35) into the side block. The stud also extends into the interior of
valve body (29) . the helmet shell far enough to secure the air train by
means of the washer and nut. The air train cup that
4) Tighten the seat to 240 inch lbs. (270 kg. cm). fits over the stud is made of soft brass and cannot be
with a torque wrench while holding the body in a used for a bearing surface to mount the side block.
soft jaw vice or wrench. RTV silicone rubber compound is used to form a gas
tight seal between the side block and the exterior of
CAUTION: Use two wrenches or hold the helmet shell.
the hex part of the body in a vise while re-
moving or turning the seat with a wrench.
Do not use pliers on the main body of the 6.3.2 Side Block Assembly Removal
one-way valve. You may damage the valve if
pliers are used. Tools Required:
7/16,11/16, and 7/8 inch Open End Wrenches
5) If the adapter (36) has been removed, it must be 11/16 and 7/8 inch Open End Wrench Attachment
cleaned and wrapped with Teflon tape. on Torque Wrench
1/4 inch Flat Blade Stubby Screwdriver
DANGER: Do not allow any Teflon tape
to cover the end of the adapter, or to enter The bent tube assembly must be entirely removed
the one-way valve. Loose pieces of Teflon before removal of the side block assembly is started.
tape can interfere with the performance of
the one-way valve or the regulator and may 1) Completely unscrew the bent tube assembly nut
block the diver’s air supply. This could lead (14) from the side block. (Fig. 6.4)
to death through suffocation.

6) Test the operation of the valve.

7) Place the new O-ring (28) on the end of the one

way valve assembly and reinstall the valve assem-
bly in the side block (12). Tighten to 240 inch lbs.
(270 kg.cm.) with a torque wrench.

Fig. 6.4 - Loosening the Bent Tube from the Side Block.

2) Using two wrenches, hold the nut at the regulator

end of the bent tube assembly with the first wrench.
Fig. 6.3 - Tighten to 240 inch lbs. (270kg.cm) with a torque With the other wrench, loosen the jam nut (108) by
wrench. turning the wrench DOWN.
38
 SL-27 MANUAL
3) Unscrew the nut until it comes free, then pull the
bent tube assembly straight out of the regulator inlet
nipple (109).

4) The side block assembly (39) is ready to start re-

moval.

6.3.3 Separating the Side Block Assembly from

the Helmet Shell

Tools Required:
Putty Knife
7/16 inch Open End Wrench
1/4 inch Flat Blade Stubby Screwdriver

1) Removal of the side block assembly requires re-

moving the air train (67).

2) Remove the nut (69) and washer (68), then the air Fig. 6.6 - A thin putty knife can be pushed between the side
train. block and the helmet shell
faces before reassembling. Acetone helps remove
this, but must be used sparingly since it will also
remove the flat black finish inside the helmet.

6) If you plan to rebuild the side block assembly, it

should be done at this time, while the side block is
off the helmet.

6.3.4 Side Block Assembly Replacement

If a new side block is being installed, make sure it

aligns correctly in the holes of the helmet shell be-
fore applying RTV silicone sealant.

Fig. 6.5 - Loosening the Air Train. 1) A generous application of silicone sealant must
be applied to the side block (12) prior to installation
3) The stud nut (66) is removed next, with the lock on the helmet shell. Use only Dow Corning™ RTV
washer (65) and flat washer (64). 732 Multi Purpose sealant. Care must be taken to
avoid sealant entering the air opening in the side
4) Next, the screw (70) is removed. block. Be sure to remove all excess silicone sealant
before it sets up. Lacquer thinner can be used to
5) The side block assembly is now unfastened, but dissolve unset sealant.
held in place by the rubber sealing compound (sili-
cone sealant) that acts as a glue. It may be necessary WARNING: Do not dive the helmet un-
to rock just slightly, or pry the side block from the til the sealant has had time to cure. Check
helmet shell. A thin putty knife can be pushed be- the directions on the tube of sealant for cur-
tween the side block and the helmet shell to help ing time. If the helmet goes into the water
free it. Do not use a screwdriver or chisel as dam- before the sealant has cured it could leak
age to the shell could result. Be sure to peel or scrape through the side block mounting stud hole,
the old silicone sealant away from both sealing sur- screw hole, or air flow hole.
39
SL-27 MANUAL
2) Thread the screw (70) through the helmet shell
(58) and lightly tighten into the side block body.

3) Slide the flat washer (64) and the lock washer

(65) onto the stud (11). Run the stud nut (66) down
the stud and tighten. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN.
See Appendix 1 for torque specs.

4) Tighten the screw (70) to the correct torque. See

Appendix 1 for torque specs.

5) Slip the air train (67) over the stud. Align the air
train with the upper edge of the view port opening
in the helmet shell.
Fig. 6.7 - A generous application of silicone sealant must be
applied to the side block prior to installation on the helmet
6) Place the washer (68) on the stud and tighten the
shell. Use only Dow Corning™ RTV 732 Multi Purpose sealant.
nut (69) until the washer lays flush on the air train.
DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN. DANGER: If silicone sealant is block-
ing the air flow into the helmet it must be
7) Test the side block prior to diving to ensure that cleaned out. If it is not, the diver may not be
no silicone sealant is blocking the air flow to the able to properly defog the helmet or clear a
helmet. If it is, it must be cleaned out prior to div- flooded helmet quickly. In addition, if the
ing. demand regulator is not delivering air prop-
erly, the diver cannot use the free flow sys-
tem as a source of breathing air.

39

38

36
35
34 37
33
32
31
30

29
28
KIRBY MORGAN
11
12

19 10
20 9
21 8
22 7
23 13 6
24 18 5
25 15 4
26 27 17 3
14
2
1

16

Fig. 6.8 - Components of the Side Block

40
 SL-27 MANUAL

6.4 DEFOGGER VALVE 6.4.2 Cleaning and Lubricating

6.4.1 Disassembly of the Defogger Valve 1) Clean all the metal parts in a 50/50 dilute solution
of white vinegar/water. Rinse in fresh water.
Tools Required:
3/8 inch Slotted Flat Blade Screwdriver
13/16 inch Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench

The defogger valve components are disassembled

as follows:

1) First, unscrew the lock nut (1) and remove the

spring (2), control knob (3), and washer (4).

Fig. 6.11 - Clean all the metal parts to remove salts .

Fig. 6.9 - Remove the defogger control knob.

2) Next, unscrew the bonnet (5). Its O-ring (6) will

come off with it. The valve stem (9), O-ring (8), and
Fig. 6.11 - The seat should be removed for inspection.
washer (7) usually come out with the bonnet and can
be pushed out of the bonnet once removed from the 2) Check the Teflon™ seat (10) for wear, and replace
side block body. if necessary.

3) The Teflon™ washer and O-ring (8) must be re-

placed if worn.

4) Be sure to place a light coating of silicone grease

on all internal moving parts, O-rings, and washers.

6.4.3 Reassembly of the Defogger Valve

Tools Required:
Fig. 6.10 - The valve stem usually comes out with the bonnet. 3/8 inch Slotted Flat Blade Screwdriver
13/16" Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench
3) If the stem remains in the side block body it can
1) Screw in the new seat assembly (10) until it is
be lifted out after the bonnet is removed.
even with the front of the side block body (12).
4) The seat assembly (10) can be unscrewed from
2) Next, install the new Teflon washer (7) and new
the side block body with the stem or a screwdriver.
O-ring (8) onto the stem (9).
41
SL-27 MANUAL
3) Insert the proper end of the stem (9) into the seat
assembly (10) and turn clockwise until the seat (10)
lightly bottoms out. Leave the stem in place.

4) Lubricate the new O-ring (6) and install on the

bonnet (5).

5) Slide the bonnet (5) over the stem (9) and thread
the bonnet (5) into the side block (12).

6) Tighten the bonnet (5) with a torque wrench to Fig. 6.13 - Remove the lock nut, spring and knob.
100 inch lbs.

7) Place the new Teflon™ washer (4) and the control

knob (3) on the stem (9) and rotate the stem coun-
terclockwise until the seat assembly (10) tops out
fully open. The control knob (3) must turn smoothly
without any binding. Binding (or “hard spots”) in
the rotation could be an indication of a bent stem (9)
that must be replaced.

8) Install the new Teflon™ washer (4), new knob

(3), and the spring (2), and locknut (1). Screw on
the locknut (1) until it is flush with the knob (3). Fig. 6.14 - Undo the packing nut.

6.5 EMERGENCY VALVE ASSEMBLY

The emergency valve assembly is not built into the

side block. It is a separate component that can be
removed and replaced, or disassembled in place on
the side block assembly. The Emergency valve con-
trol knob is not interchangeable with the defogger
valve control knob.

6.5.1 Disassembly of the Emergency Valve

Fig. 6.15 - Remove the valve stem.
Assembly
3) Remove the packing nut, packing (22), and washer
Tools Required:
(21) from the stem (20).
11/16 inch Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench
1 inch Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench 6.5.2 Cleaning and Lubricating
3/8 inch Slotted Flat Blade Screwdriver
8 inch Adjustable Wrench 1) Clean all the metal parts in a 50/50 dilute solution
1) Remove the lock nut (26), spring (25), and knob of white vinegar/water. Rinse with fresh water. Clean
(24). all parts. See the cleaning instructions in 5.2.1

2) Undo the packing nut (23). When the packing nut 2) Inspect the packing (22) and washer (21) for wear
is free of the threads of the emergency valve body and replace if necessary.
(19), back out the stem (20) until it is free of the 3) Inspect the stem seat (20) for unevenness or wear
emergency valve body. and replace if necessary. It must also be replaced if
the stem is bent.

42
 SL-27 MANUAL

Fig. 6.16 - Inspect the packing (22) and washer.

Fig. 6.17 - Installing the valve stem in the emergency valve.
4) Check the seat in the emergency valve body (19)
for wear or unevenness. Replace the body if neces-
sary. 5) Thread the packing nut (23) onto the body (19).
Run the nut in and tighten slightly with a wrench.
5) To remove the emergency valve body from the
side block (12) the one way valve assembly (38) must
6) Place the knob (24) onto the stem and rotate the
first be removed.
stem all the way out, then back again. The rotation
6.5.3 Reassembly of Emergency Valve must be smooth. If “hard spots” or unevenness are
felt during the rotation, the stem may be bent and
Tools Required: could need replacement.
11/16 inch Open End &1 inch Open End Attachments
on Torque Wrench 7) Tighten the packing nut (23) with a wrench until
3/8 inch Slotted Flat Blade Screwdriver moderate resistance is felt when turning the knob.
Soft jaw vice
NOTE: 8) Place the spring (25), and locknut (26) onto the
The emergency valve does not have to be removed stem (20) securing the knob (24).
from the side block to be rebuilt. If the valve is to be
removed, the one way valve must be removed first, 9) Tighten the locknut until it is flush with the knob.
allowing the emergency valve to be rotated. The assembly is now complete and ready for test-
ing.
1) With the exception of the tapered pipe thread end
of the emergency valve body (19), lubricate all com- 10) Test the valve by attaching it to an emergency
ponents with a light coating of silicone grease. air supply source. There must be no leakage of gas
past the stem or through the packing nut. Turn on
2) Place the new Teflon washer (21) and new pack- the bailout bottle and leave the supply on for several
ing (22) on the stem (20). NOTE: There are two hours. There must be no drop in pressure in the sys-
different packings and washers supplied in the kit, tem if the valve is operating properly.
for rebuilding both the older style and the newer
high flow emergency valve. Match the removed 11) If the emergency valve had been removed from
packing and washer to the new ones supplied and the side block, ensure the pipe threads are clean and
discard the others. retape with teflon tape. Wrap the pipe threads start-
ing two threads back, under tension, clockwise with
3) Holding these components in place on the stem, 11/2 wraps. Reinstall the emergency valve in the side
screw the stem into the emergency valve body. block then reinstall the one way valve and torque to
240 inch lbs.
4) Rotate the stem until it is seated all the way in.

43
SL-27 MANUAL

WARNING: A leaking emergency valve

assembly can cause the diver to exhaust his
entire emergency air supply (bailout) with-
out his knowledge. This may lead the diver
to mistakenly assume his bailout supply is
available when it is not. This could lead to
panic or drowning in an emergency. Any
worn component that causes an emergency
valve to leak must be replaced.

6.6 BENT TUBE ASSEMBLY

6.6.1 General Fig. 6.19 - Loosening the jam nut.

The bent tube assembly (16) provides for breathing 2) The regulator end has a jam nut (108) that locks
gas flow to the side block assembly. Breathing gas the mount nut in place. With one wrench, hold the
flows through the inlet nipple of the demand regula- bent tube mount nut. With another wrench, turn
tor assembly. Both ends of the bent tube assembly DOWN the jam nut, backing it away from the mount
disconnect for complete removal. nut. The mount nut can then be rotated until free of
the regulator inlet nipple (109) threads. It can be
pushed up the bent tube.

3) With the two mount nuts free, the bent tube as-
sembly can be pulled straight out of the regulator
inlet nipple. The bent tube assembly can be rotated
back and forth to aid removal.
Be careful to only rotate and pull straight out on the
inlet nipple. DO NOT BEND THE TUBE.

6.6.3 Inspection of Bent Tube Assembly

The O-ring at the regulator end (15) is inspected and

replaced if necessary. The Teflon™ O-ring (13) at
the side block end is inspected and replaced if nec-
Fig. 6.18 - Always start removal at the side block end. essary.

6.6.2 Removal of the Bent Tube Assembly

Tools Required:
11/16 inch Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench
7/8 inch Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench
7/8 inch Open End Wrench

1) Always start removal at the side block end. The

free swiveling mount nut on this end of the bent tube
can be unthreaded completely and can slide down
the tube.
Fig. 6.20 - Replace the O-ring on the bent tube if it is
worn or damaged.

44
 SL-27 MANUAL
6.6.4 Replacement of Bent Tube Assembly If the regulator does not breathe easily, the diver can-
not work hard and will tire rapidly. Simply put: If the
The bent tube must be free of dents. If the helmet demand regulator does not work properly the diver
has been used for burning (underwater cutting) jobs, cannot work properly. This makes the maintenance
carefully check for erosion of the metal. Replace if of the demand regulator assembly essential.
necessary. If a new bent tube is being installed of the
side block has been removed, refer to the manual for For the gas inlet valve and adjustment system to op-
installation. erate properly, the components in the demand regu-
lator MUST be in good condition and MUST be pe-
Tools Required: riodically adjusted internally.
11/16 inch Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench
7/8 inch Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench Four special tools, the inlet valve holder (DSI Part
7/8 inch Open End Wrench #525-616), the regulator adjustment wrench (DSI Part
#525-611), the socket wrench (DSI Part #525-612),
1) Replace the O-ring (15) at the regulator end and and the castle wrench (DSI Part #525-618) should be
the Teflon washer (13) at the side block end with the used to work on the regulator.
new ones supplied.

2) Push the O-ring end of the bent tube assembly

into the regulator inlet nipple (109). Slide it in until
the side block end is aligned with the threads for the
mount nut.

3) Be sure the Teflon O-ring is in place.

4) Tighten the bent tube assembly onto the side block

(12). See Appendix I for torque specifications.

5) Start the regulator to bent tube mount nut onto the

inlet nipple. Run it in HAND TIGHT ONLY.

6) Hold the nut on the end of the bent tube with a

wrench and tighten the jam nut (108) against it with
another wrench. The bent tube nut must not be bot-
tomed out against the nipple. Fig. 6.21 - Tool Kit with pouch - DSI Part #525-620.

Disassembly, assembly, and adjustment can be done

without these tools, but the work is much easier and
6.7 DEMAND REGULATOR
the adjustment is better if these tools are used. The
above 4 tools are available together along with a tool
The regulator system on all Kirby Morgan helmets
pouch. The “Tool Kit with pouch” is DSI Part #525-
is simple and highly reliable. Even if the components
620.
are not in good condition, the regulator will prob-
ably continue to function. However, inhalation re- 6.7.1 Demand Regulator Test for
sistance could be extremely high if the demand regu- Correct Adjustment, Fully Assembled
lator is not maintained properly. There is always the
backup supply of steady flow gas from the defogger Check the regulator for adjustment and proper func-
valve in the event the demand regulator functions tion with the assembly complete and the breathing
too badly. The point here is that the demand regula- gas supply on.
tor must receive regular maintenance to assure the
best possible performance.
45
SL-27 MANUAL
1) Press the purge button in the cover (101) to check for leaks. A finger must be held over the inlet nipple
flow. There should be between 1/16 inch (1.5 mm) (109) during this check.
and 1/8 inch (3.0 mm) free travel in the button, then
the gas must start flowing. When the button is fully 7) When no supply pressure is going to be on the
depressed, a strong surge of gas must result. helmet for several hours or more, the regulator con-
2) Run the adjustment knob (98) out until a steady trol knob (98) must be backed all the way out. This
flow of gas is present. will prolong the life of the inlet valve.

3) Run the adjustment knob (98) in until the free flow

just stops. Depress the purge button several times to 6.7.2 Inspection of Regulator Body Interior
ensure that the regulator has stabilized. If the flow
does not stop, check the supply pressure. If it is Tools Required:
correct, the regulator will require internal adjust- 1/4 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque Screw-
ment. See sec. 6.7.10 or 6.7.11. driver
4) With an assistant ready to assist, and both persons
1) Remove the demand regulator clamp (103) by
stationed adjacent to the air manifold, don the mask
removing the clamp screw (102).
and test breathe the mask to check for resistance. If
the adjustment knob (98) has been set in accordance
with Step #2 above and the regulator breathes hard,
internal adjustment is necessary.
5) Check the exhaust valves by turning the defog-
ger control knob (3) and the emergency control knob
(24) off. Stand next to the manifold and turn the air
supply off to the helmet. Drain the supply hose but
be sure the air is on to the manifold. Don the neck
dam ring and helmet, close the locking collar as-
sembly, and try to inhale. If any leakage is present it
could be from the regulator exhaust, neck dam, or
other component leakage.
Fig. 6.22 - Remove the demand regulator clamp.
DANGER: Do not perform this test un-
less the diver is stationed immediately ad- 2) Lift off the demand regulator cover (101) and dia-
jacent to the diver’s air manifold and you are phragm (100).
certain the air is on to the manifold. If the
diver is unable to flow air to the helmet, ei- 3) Clean the diaphragm and check it for holes.
ther through the umbilical or the bailout, he
may not be able to remove it easily. To break 4) Inspect the interior of the demand regulator body
the seal, the diver must reach up and pull (90) for foreign objects and cleanliness.
the neck dam away from his neck. This will
allow air to enter the helmet. A tender must 5) Clean the interior of the regulator body if neces-
be standing by during this test to assist the sary. Make sure the diaphragm has no signs of wear
diver if required. or aging. Do not reassemble yet. Use only replace-
ment diaphragms supplied from Diving Systems In-
6) Start by visually checking the regulator exhaust ternational, Inc. as others may not stay securely in
valve (112) and the main exhaust (water dump) valve place.
(73) for correct seating. If the leak cannot be lo-
cated in the other components, and the regulator is 6) Reinstall the diaphragm, cover, and clamp. Tighten
still suspect, it can be removed, (see Section 6.7). the clamp screw to the recommended torque. See
With no gas supply connected, attempt to inhale di- Appendix I for the proper torque value.
rectly from the mount tube to check the regulator
46
 SL-27 MANUAL
6.7.3 Adjustment System Lubrication 4) Remove the washer (95) and O-ring (96).
Tools Required: 5) Inspect the O-ring (96) for cuts. Replace if neces-
3/4 inch Open End Wrench Attachment on Torque sary.
Wrench
3/32 inch Punch 6) Inspect the washer (95) for wear. Replace if nec-
Small Block of Wood essary.
Ball Peen Hammer
7) Turn the helmet on its side, side block at the top,
Go to the adjustment knob end of the regulator: and shake out the spacer (93), spring set (92), and
piston (91).
1 ) Unscrew the knob (98) until it stops and a wrench
can be placed on the nut (97).

2) Remove the nut. The adjustment shaft (94) and

the knob are unscrewed along with the nut.

Fig. 6.23 - Screw the regulator adjustment knob

out for removal.
3) Punch out the retaining pin (99) with a 3/32"
punch. While driving the pin through, support the
adjustment end with a block of wood to avoid bend-
ing the shaft. Be careful or damage may result to Fig. 6.24 - Shake out the spacer, spring set, and piston.
the adjustment shaft.
8) Clean and lubricate generously with silicone
grease.

9) Inspect the inside of the adjustment tube to be

sure there is no corrosion and the adjustment assem-
bly can travel freely.

6.7.4 Reassembly of Adjustment System

1) Place the piston (91) back in the regulator adjust-

ment tube, followed by the spring set (92), and spacer
(93).

2) Place the washer (95) and O-ring (96) on the shaft

Fig. 6.25 - Inspect the O-ring & washer. (94).
47
SL-27 MANUAL
3) Slip the packing nut (97) over the shaft followed
by the adjustment knob (98).

4) Drive the pin (99) back into place until it is flush

with the surface of the adjustment knob.

5) Screw the shaft back into the regulator body (90).

6) Thread the packing nut onto the regulator body.

Rotate the adjustment knob all the way in using the
torque wrench and a 3/4 inch open end attachment
torqued to 40 inch lbs after it is seated (46 kg.cm).

6.7.5 Demand Regulator Assembly Removal

Tools Required:
1 3/8 inch Socket on Torque Wrench
1/4 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque Screw-
driver
11/16 Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench
13/16 Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench
2 ea. 7/8 inch Open End Attachment on Torque
Wrench
Fig. 6.26 - The regulator mount nut is removed with the
1) To remove the regulator (113) from the helmet, proper wrench.
the bent tube (16) must be removed first. The bent
tube assembly must be removed entirely before regu- 3/4 inch Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench
lator removal. 3/32 inch Punch
7/8 inch Open End Wrench
2) Remove the whisker (86) from the port retainer Small Ball Peen Hammer
(78) by removing the screws (89).
1) Remove the cover clamp screw (102) and cover
3) The regulator mount nut (49) is removed with the clamp (103).
sealing O-ring (48).
2) Lift the cover (101) off and take out the diaphragm
4) Now the regulator assembly can be pulled out of (100).
the helmet.
3) Adjustment knob (98) removal is started by un-
5) The whisker (86) is held in place at the regulator screwing the adjustment knob until it stops.
body (90) by being stretched over the regulator ex-
haust flange. To remove the whisker from the regu- 4) The packing nut (97) is now exposed enough to
lator body stretch it off. use a wrench on it for removal. As the nut is backed
off, unscrew the knob, also.
6.7.6 Disassembly of the Demand Regulator
5) The O-ring (96) and washer (95) remain on the
Tools Required: shaft.
1/4 inch Flat Blade Screwdriver Attachment on
Torque Wrench 6) Tilt the helmet so that the spacer (93), spring set
DSI Regulator Tool Kit, DSI Part #525-620 (92), and piston (91) fall out of the adjustment shaft
7/8 inch Open End Attachment on Torque Wrench tube.
48
 SL-27 MANUAL
7) Place the adjustment knob (98) on a block of wood
and drive the retaining pin (99) out with the punch. 1) Inlet valve: Check condition of rubber for wear
and/or deep grooves.
8) If not already done, remove the bent tube assem-
bly (16). 2) Diaphragm: Check to determine if rubber has
separated from the metal part. Inspect for cracks,
9) Remove the inlet nipple (109) from the regulator pin holes, and pinching of outer edges.
body.
3) O-rings: Check for irregularities in the rubber.
10) Inside the regulator body, remove the nut (104)
from the inlet valve (111). The castle wrench may 4) Exhaust valve: Be sure there is no curling or
be used to hold the inlet valve while the nut is being deformation and that the rubber is in good shape.
unscrewed. Insert the castle wrench into the inlet
nipple tube of the regulator and press it onto the 5) Whisker: Inspect the whisker. Replace the whis-
inlet valve. Also, the inlet valve holding tool may be ker if it shows wear or aging. Replace the whisker
used to hold the inlet valve by inserting it into the if it allows bubbles to interfere with visibility.
hole in the balance tube until it wedges the inlet valve,
preventing rotation. These tools are included in the 6.7.8 Cleaning and Inspection of Demand Regu-
lator Parts
DSI Tool Kit, DSI Part #525-620.
Clean all metal parts in a sonic cleaner or in white
11) Remove the nut completely. The DSI socket
vinegar and blow off with air. Inspect all parts care-
wrench can be inserted into the adjustment tube for
fully. Replace any that are worn or damaged as well
removal of the nut.
as all that are supplied in the repair kit.
12) Tilt the regulator and drop out the inlet valve
(111).

13) The spacer (105), lever (106), and washer (107)

will now fall out of the regulator body. 113a
98
6.7.7 Inspection of Demand Regulator Parts 97
96
95
After the regulator has been disassembled, inspect 94
the parts. If the parts show signs of wear or deterio- 93
ration they must be replaced, even if it is prior to the 92 99
recommended replacement interval.
91
90
Fig. 6.27 - The complete regulator assembly.

100

112 101
102
103
-N
SI A

111
D

VY
350 R

110 104
r
to

e g ula

105
109
106
108 107

49
SL-27 MANUAL
All regulator parts must be free of damage, dirt, and straight edge and align them if necessary by care-
corrosion. All rubber components must be in excel- fully bending them with pliers. Now, with the inlet
lent condition. valve depressed insert the lever legs between the
washer (107) and spacer (105).
6.7.9 Reassembly of the Demand Regulator
6) Holding the inlet valve (111) with the castle
1) Install the new exhaust valve (112) into the regu- wrench, tighten the nut (104) until two threads are
lator and trim off any excess stem that may interfere visible past the nut and then remove the castle
with the movement of the lever or inlet valve. wrench.
7) While holding the lever down, install the inlet
nipple (109) with it’s O-ring (110) into the regula-
tor body (90). Tighten inlet nipple to 40 inch lbs.
(46 kg. cm.)

8) Lightly lubricate the piston (91) and spacer (93).

Install the piston, spring set (92) and spacer into the
adjustment tube of the regulator body in the order
shown in Fig 6.27.

9) If you have disassembled the adjustment knob

assembly (113a), next slide the washer (95) and O-
Fig. 6.28 - The Castle Wrench and Inlet Valve.
ring (95) onto the adjustment shaft (94).
2) Press the head of the inlet valve (111) into the 10) Slide the packing nut (97) onto the adjustment
castle wrench (DSI Part #525-618). With the inlet shaft, then slip the knob (98) onto the end of the
valve securely held insert it into the inlet tube in the shaft. Hold the shaft and rotate the knob until the
regulator body (90). pin holes line up. Use the inlet valve holder from
the regulator tool kit to accurately align these holes.
3) Reach a finger into the inlet mount tube and de-
press the inlet valve so the stem extends into the in- 11) Install the retaining pin (99) by tapping it in with
terior of the regulator body. Place the washer (107) a light hammer until it is flush.
and the spacer (105) over the end of the inlet valve
12) Lubricate the threads lightly, then thread the ad-
stem. The washer and spacer may be placed in the
justment shaft (94) into the tube until the packing
recess in the regulator body before inserting the in-
nut (97) can be started. Tighten the packing nut to
let valve.
40 inch pounds. Make sure that the adjustment knob
(98) is run in simultaneously.
4) Place a new nut (104) into the socket wrench from
the DSI tool kit and insert it through the adjustment 13) Check the adjustment knob for free rotation.
shaft tube. NOTE: A new nut (104) must be used.
Once this locking nut has been used, it cannot be 14) Stretch the exhaust whisker (86) onto the ex-
reused. The nylon friction that keeps the adjustment haust flange of the regulator.
will lose its holding capability and the regulator might
not stay in proper adjustment. With the inlet valve 15) Mount the regulator to the mask or helmet. Lu-
depressed, run the nut onto the inlet valve stem about bricate and install the sealing O-ring (48) and thread
2 turns, leaving enough slack to allow installation of on the regulator mount nut (49).
the lever (106). With the inlet valve depressed the
16) Install the bent tube assembly (16) before tight-
washer and spacer must be loose on the inlet valve
ening the regulator mount nut. Lubricate the O-ring
stem.
(15) on the bent tube assembly. Slide the O-ring end
5) The lever (106) is installed next. The lever legs of the bent tube assembly into the regulator inlet
MUST be parallel to each other. Check them with a nipple (109) until the side block end is aligned with

50
 SL-27 MANUAL
the threads for the bent tube mount nut. Insure that
the Teflon O-ring is in place and tighten the mount
nut to 100 inch lbs. (112 kg.cm.).

17) Now tighten the regulator mount nut (49) to 100

inch pounds. Thread the large nut on the bent tube
assembly onto the inlet nipple. Run this nut on until
it just bottoms on the shoulder on the bent tube. Do
not tighten further. Using two wrenches, hold the
large nut on the regulator end of the bent tube and
tighten the jam nut (108) to 100 inch lbs. (112kg.cm.),
Fig. 6.29 - Insert the inlet valve holding tool into the balance
18) Attach the whisker (86) to each side of the face hole on the inlet tube.
port retainer (78) using the screws (89), plates (88) 7) Place the diaphragm and cover in place, depress-
and spacers (87). Carefully torque these screws to ing the cover tightly to simulate a properly tightened
12 inch lbs (13kg.cm.). clamp.

19) Adjust the regulator following instructions in Sec- 8) Depress the purge button in the center of the cover
tion 6.7.10. Adjustment instructions are also included (101).
in the regulator tool kit.
9) There must be l/8 of an inch (3.0 mm) of free
20) Install the diaphragm (100), cover (101), clamp travel before the button comes in contact with the
(103) and screw (102). Torque the screw to 8 inch diaphragm (100). The lever (106) must now be ad-
lbs. (9 kg.cm.). justed to this proper height if it is not already cor-
rect. The nut (104) can be loosened no more than l/8
21) Check the regulator for proper operation and fine of a turn to lower the lever height. The lever must be
tune the adjustment if necessary. bent if more adjustment is necessary.

6.7.10 Tuning the Regulator

1) Remove clamp (103), cover (101) and diaphragm

(100).

2) Screw (clockwise) the adjustment knob (98) all

the way in, towards the regulator body (90).

3) Pressurize the regulator to between 120 - 150 psig

(8 -10 bar) of supply pressure.
Fig. 6.30
4) Screw the adjustment knob out until the regulator
starts to free flow. Screw the adjustment knob in un-
til the free-flow just stops and then in one more turn. 10) To bend the lever (106) up, grip the lever from
the side with a pair of long nosed pliers and bend the
5) Insert the inlet valve holding tool into the balance roller end up with your thumb. NOTE: Be very care-
hole on the inlet tube (Fig. 6.29). Push forward and ful to not place undo stress on the lower arms of
left on the tool to stop the inlet valve (111) stem from the lever as this will disfigure the lower blades
turning. Adjust the nut (104) until there is 1/16 inch and cause spongy operation.
(1.5 mm) to l/8 inch (3.0 mm) of free play at the end
of the lever (106). 11) To bend the lever down, place the disk end of the
DSI 1/4 inch wrench onto the flat area of the adjust-
6) Remove the inlet valve holder tool. ment tube within the regulator. (see fig. 6.31) Next
51
SL-27 MANUAL
d) Normally, if the regulator leaks breathing gas, the
nut (104) is too tight, and must be loosened until the
lever (106) has 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch (1.5-3.0 mm)
of play at the end.

e) If the regulator continues to leak either the inlet

valve (111) must be changed or the inlet nipple (109)
must be inspected for a damaged sealing surface. If
the leak continues, the regulator must be disas-
sembled, thoroughly cleaned, inspected, lubricated,
and reassembled.

6.7.11 Regulator Steady Flows When Pressured

Fig. 6.31 Up: Special Tools Used

Tools Required:
slide the disk, as far as possible, under the lever (106).
Small flat blade screw driver.
With your finger, bend the lever down over the disk
Small jewelers screw driver or metal scribe.
to the desired height. Be careful not to bend the le-
Needle nose pliers.
ver too far!
DSI regulator tool kit if available.
12) Replace the diaphragm (100) and the cover (101).
Test the purge button. Continue until proper toler- A few words about the demand regulator. The de-
ances are reached. mand regulator is very rugged and reliable. How-
ever, to maintain optimum performance it should be
IMPORTANT NOTES checked prior to each diving day in accordance with
ON REGULATOR ADJUSTMENT: the brief procedure 6.7.1 Demand Regulator Test
for Correct Adjustment, Fully Assembled.
a) It is permissible to loosen the nut (104) no more If after completing the demand regulator test as out-
than l/8 of a turn to adjust the lever height. If the nut lined in 6.7.1 adjustment is necessary and the spe-
is loosened beyond this amount, the regulator will cial DSI tool kit is not available proceed as follows.
not flow to its maximum rate due to insufficient le-
verage between the lever (106) and the inlet valve 1) Remove the regulator clamp (103), cover (101)
stem. If the nut is adjusted too tight, the regulator and diaphragm (100).
will leak.
2) Adjust the regulator adjustment knob (98) all the
b) If a new inlet valve is installed, allow the regula- way in. Finger tight only.
tor to sit for 24 hours with the adjustment knob (98)
turned in all the way, before adjusting. This will al- 3) Pressurize the regulator to between 120-150 psig
low the rubber in the inlet valve stem (111) to take a (8.5-10 bar).
set against the inlet nipple (109). If the regulator is
to be used immediately, be aware that the rubber seat 4) Slowly back out on the adjustment knob until a
will take a set, changing the adjustment and the regu- slight free flow is heard and then rotate the adjust-
lators performance. This requires the readjustment ment knob in (clockwise) 1/4 turn and depress the
of the regulator after the first day of use following purge button momentarily. Repeat this procedure
the proper setting time and procedure until the gas flow stops. Usually at this point the regu-
lator adjustment knob will be between 5 and 7 turns
c) The two opposing blades on the bottom of the le- out. Note: If when backing the adjustment knob out
ver (106) must be in perfect alignment with each from the full “in” position, the regulator starts free
other and be free of nicks or burrs. flowing at less than five turns, then this usually in-
dicates insufficient free play at the lever.

52
 SL-27 MANUAL
5) Upon completion of step 4. Check the free play at play and “Out” (counterclockwise) to increase lever
the lever (55). The lever should have between 1/16- play. Only turn the adjustment nut 1/8 turn at a time.
1/8 inch (1.5-3.0 mm) play. If adjustment is neces- Depress the lever momentarily after each adjustment
sary, adjust using the DSI tools as explained in step and observe the lever play. It may be necessary to
5, or the alternative method described below. complete this procedure several times, as the proce-
dure requires estimating the proper position of the
nut. If the regulator free flow did not stop after this
procedure, refer to regulator disassembly and clean-
ing 6.7.6, 6.7.7, and 6.7.8.

8) When adjustment is complete, place the diaphragm

(100) and cover (101) in place, and press tightly down
on the cover to simulate the action of the clamp.

Fig. 6.32 - Insert the inlet valve holding tool into the balance
hole on the inlet tube.

6) DSI tools: Using the inlet valve holding rod, (L

shaped rod), insert the end of the rod into the bal-
ance hole as shown in FIG. 6.29. Lightly apply force
by pushing on the rod making it act as a lever to put
friction against the inlet valve shaft. At this point,
the DSI wrench can be used to rotate the lever nut
(104). Rotate the nut “In” (clockwise) to reduce le-
ver play or “Out” (counter clockwise) to increase
lever play. Only rotate the nut 1/8 turn at a time. Fig. 6.33 Press the cover over the diaphragm.
Remove the tools and depress the lever several times
after adjusting to ensure the correct play is achieved. 9) With the cover pressed tight against the diaphragm,
It may be necessary to repeat this procedure several if the regulator starts to free flow, the lever may need
times, as the method requires estimating the correct to be bent down slightly. If the regulator does not
position of the nut. Note: if there is little (less than free flow, slowly depress the purge button (101c) until
1/16 inch /1.5 mm) or no lever play, the regulator a slight free flow develops. The purge button should
will free flow. If there is too much free play, (more depress no further than 1/8 inch (3.0 mm) before the
than 1/8 inch / 3.0 mm) the regulator will not be ca- regulator develops a flow. If the regulator does not
pable of full demand flow potential. develop a slight free flow when the purge button is
depressed in 1/8 inch (3.0 mm), then the lever will
7) If the free flow did not stop after this procedure, require slight upward bending. Note: Before bend-
refer to regulator disassembly and cleaning 6.7.6, ing the lever, double check the adjustments. It is
6.7.7, and 6.7.8. rare that the lever requires bending in a regulator
Alternative method: If a DSI tool kit is not avail- that has been in service. Usually levers only require
able, a small jewelers screwdriver or metal scribe bending in new installations or because of damage
can be inserted in the slot on the end of the inlet during disassembly.
valve (111) to keep it from rotating, and needle nose
pliers may be used to rotate the lever nut (104). Hold- 10) Install the clamp (103) and clamp screw (102).
ing the slot of the inlet valve from rotating, carefully Tighten the screw to the correct torque (see appen-
rotate the nut (104) “In” (clockwise to remove lever dix 1 for torque specifications).
53
SL-27 MANUAL
6.7.12 Regulator has Low or No Flow When Pres-
surized

Tools Required:
DSI Regulator Adjustment Tools,
DSI Part #525-620
1/4 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque Screw-
driver

If there is no flow when the regulator is pressur-

ized, and the lever (106) is very loose (travels more
than 1/8 inch (3.0 mm) at the roller end), the nut
(104) must be tightened.
Fig. 6.34

1) Turn off the breathing gas (or air) supply.

11) Again, press on the purge button in the cover. It
2) Bleed the regulator so no pressure is present. If
must have 1/16 inch (1.5 mm) minimum and 1/8 inch
the lever is so loose that it cannot be used to bleed
(3.0 mm) maximum free travel before it contacts the
the system, the next step will do so.
diaphragm. If there is more than 1/8 inch (3.0 mm)
travel, the lever must be bent upward (see Section
3) Back the adjustment knob (98) all the way out.
6.7.10). If the button has only slight or no free travel,
the lever must be bent down.
4) Install the inlet valve holder into the lower equal-
izing hole of the regulator and press up or down to
12) If the purge button travel is correct, the adjust-
prevent rotation.
ment is complete.
5) Run the adjustment knob all the way in.
CAUTION: The nut must not be loos-
ened more than 1/8 turn to lower the height
6) Pressurize the system to between 120 and 150
of the lever. If more adjustment is necessary
psig (8-10 bar). There must be no steady flow.
the lever should be bent downward. If the
nut is loosened more than 1/8 turn the lever
7) Back out the adjustment knob counter clockwise
will not have enough travel for proper flow
until a slight free flow starts, this should be between
rates.
5 and 8 turns. Then slowly rotate the knob in clock-
wise, while intermittently depressing the lever until
the flow just stops and the regulator is stable.
WARNING: The lock nut must always
be replaced if removed from the inlet valve.
8) Tighten the nut (104) until the loose lever has
The plastic material that locks the nut is not
about 1/8 inch (3.0 mm) of play at the roller end.
designed for multiple reuse. If the nut comes
The adjustment wrench is the best tool for this.
loose during a dive the regulator would free
flow heavily. In the situation where the diver
9) Replace the diaphragm (100).
is using bottled breathing gas this would
result in a rapid consumption of breathing
10) Press the cover (101) over the diaphragm. Hold
gas.
the cover tightly against the diaphragm.

54
 SL-27 MANUAL

11) Press the purge button in the cover. There must

51 53
be 1/16 inch (1.5 mm) to 1/8 inch (3.0 mm) travel
before the purge button pushes against the diaphragm
52
against the lever. A flow of gas will start when the
lever is depressed. If there is no travel, or more than
1/8 inch (3.0 mm) travel in the purge button, it may
be necessary to bend the lever to its proper height by
the method explained in Section 6.7.10. If the purge
button travel seems to be correct, proceed with as- 50
sembly.

12) Install the clamp (103) and clamp screw (102).

Fig. 6.35
Tighten the screw to correct torque (see appendix).

13) Again, press on the purge button in the cover. It

6.8 ORAL NASAL
must have 1/16 inch (1.5 mm) minimum and 1/8 inch
(3.0 mm) maximum free travel before pushing the 6.8.1 Oral Nasal Removal
diaphragm in contact with the lever causing the start
of gas flow. If there is more than 1/8 inch (3.0 mm) Tools Required:
travel, the lever must be bent upward (see Section 7/16 inch Open End Wrench
6.7.10). If the button has only slight or no free travel,
the lever must be bent down. The oral nasal mask is easily replaced.

14) If the purge button travel is correct, the adjust- 1) The nose block device (51) MUST be removed
ment is complete. first. See Section 7.3.2.

2) Remove the microphone (131).

6.7.13 Unexplained Demand Regulator Steady
Flow When Underwater
3) The oral nasal mask can then be pulled off the
regulator mount nut (49). It is held on by a snap fit.
Any leak in the neck dam when the diver is face down
will cause gas to vent out into the water from the
6.8.2 Inspection of Oral Nasal
inside of the helmet. This causes the demand regula-
tor to steady flow, making up for the vented gas. Even
1) Inspect the oral nasal mask. If it is torn or aged
if the adjustment knob is turned in, the leak may con-
badly it must be replaced.
tinue.
CAUTION: The nose block device
One method to check this is for the diver to place the
MUST be removed and replaced when install-
demand regulator above the neck dam by looking
ing a new oral nasal. Simply stretching the
up. The steady flow will stop and water may leak in
oral nasal over the nose block device can
through the neck dam leak. (see Sections 6.7.10 for
cause the oral nasal to tear.
detailed instructions on demand regulator adjust-
ment.)
2) Inspect the oral nasal valve (52). If it is torn or
damaged it must be replaced.

55
SL-27 MANUAL
6.8.3 Oral Nasal Replacement

1) Snap the oral nasal over the regulator mount

nut (49).

2) Reinstall the microphone (131).

3) Reinstall the nose block device (51).

6.8.4 Oral Nasal Valve Replacement

1) Remove the valve body (53) by pushing it out

of the oral nasal.
Fig. 6.36
2) Remove the old valve (52) by pulling it out.
3) Before removing the regulator exhaust valve, care-
3) Install the new valve body by feeding the thin fully inspect the area around the edges to assure the
tail through the valve body and pulling on it until rubber exhaust valve is in contact with the regulator
the valve is seated. body. The metal cross area of the body under the
valve could be slightly bent out resulting in the rub-
4) Install the valve body in the Oral Nasal. The ber valve (112) not sealing. If the exhaust valve is
valve MUST be on the inside of the Oral Nasal. high and not sealing, lightly press in on the metal
(see fig. 6.31) cross. The exhaust valve can remain in place during
this. Bend the metal in slightly until the rubber valve
6.9 WHISKER EXHAUST seats.
6.9.1 Whisker Removal 4) The rubber exhaust valve (112) is removed by pull-
ing it out.
Tools Required:
1/4 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque Screw- 6.9.2 Whisker Replacement
driver
1) Replace the regulator exhaust valve.
NOTE: It is necessary to remove the regulator
from the helmet to replace the whisker and ex- 2) Stretch the whisker onto the exhaust flange of the
haust valve. See Section 6.7.5. regulator (90).
1) The rubber whisker (86) is removed by stretching 3) Replace the regulator onto the helmet. (See Sec-
and pulling the rubber away from the back of the tion 6.7.5).
regulator (90). A metal cup called the exhaust flange
surrounds the regulator rubber exhaust valve. The 4) Attach the screws (89), spacers (87) and plate (88),
whisker is held in place at the regulator body by be- on each side of the port retainer and torque (see Ap-
ing stretched over the exhaust flange. pendix).
2) The whisker is also held on each side of the hel- DANGER: Always be sure to use a
met at the port retainer (78). Two screws (89), stand torque screwdriver to check the tension of
off spacers (87) and one plate (88) hold each side. the port retainer screws. Overtightening can
Complete removal of the whisker is done by remov- cause damage to the threaded inserts in the
ing these screws, spacers and plate. Take care not fiberglass shell and cause them to loosen.
to lose the four spacers. (Fig 6.36) Without the correct tension the port retainer
may come loose and the helmet could flood.
This could lead to drowning.
56
 SL-27 MANUAL
6.10 WATER DUMP ASSEMBLY

The main exhaust assembly (71-75) is held in place 2) Carefully pry the water dump body (72) away from
by the three screws (71) that are installed from the the helmet shell (58). A thin putty knife can be used
inside the helmet shell. RTV silicone sealant is used to slide between the body and the helmet to ease
to seal the main exhaust body (72) to the helmet shell. seperation.DO NOT USE A SCREWDRIVER OR
CHISEL TO REMOVE THE BODY! DAMAGE
6.10.1 Water Dump Valve Removal TO THE HELMET SHELL COULD RESULT.

Tools Required: 3) Clean off any silicone sealant on the main exhaust
Diagonal Cutting Pliers body or helmet shell.
Slip Joint Pliers
Tie Wraps 4) Remove the shroud and valve if they need
replacement as per Section 5.5.6.
1) The main exhaust shroud (74) can be removed by
cutting off the tie wrap (75). 6.10.4 Main Exhaust Body Replacement

2) The main exhaust valve (73) must be replaced at 1) Apply a bead of silicone sealant to the base of the
the slightest sign of deterioration or aging of the rub- exhaust body (72). Take care not to block the open-
ber. Simply grasp the valve and pull to remove. ing for the main exhaust valve (73).

3) The main exhaust body (72) must be clean with

no sand or other debris.

6.10.2 Water Dump Valve Replacement

1) The rubber main exhaust valve (73) installs by

inserting the center stem through the main exhaust
body (72), and then pulling from inside the helmet
shell (58) until it snaps into place.

2) Replace the main exhaust shroud (74) and secure

it with a new tie wrap (75). Remove the excess tail
from the tie wrap.
Fig. 6.37 Apply a bead of silicone sealant to the base
6.10.3 Water Dump Body Removal of the exhaust body

Tools Required:
1/4 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque 2) Position the water dump body (72) on the helmet
Screwdriver shell (58) and install the screws (71). Tighten the
Diagonal Cutters screws to 18 inch pounds of torque. Wipe off any
Slip Joint Pliers excess sealant taking care not to block the opening
Tie Wraps for the water dump valve.

1) Unscrew the 3 screws (71) inside the helmet shell 3) When the RTV has cured for 24 hours, install the
(58). new valve (73) and shroud (74).

57
SL-27 MANUAL

NOTES

58
 SL-27 MANUAL
CHAPTER 7.0
CORRECTIVE MAINTENANCE

7.1 GENERAL 7.3 FACE PORT

This section covers the maintenance and repair of
all non-breathing system components of the Super- 7.3.1 General
Lite-27 Diver’s Helmet. Correct repairs will result The face port (77), or viewing lens, is made of poly-
in better communications and improved overall diver carbonate. Small scratches on the exterior are not im-
comfort and performance in getting the job done. portant as they tend to disappear underwater. How-
Numbers appearing in parentheses below are “loca- ever, the faceport is easily replaced by removing the
tion” numbers that are used in the blowapart draw- port retainer (78) and dropping in a new faceport.
ing at the rear of this manual.

WARNING: Use only Diving Systems 7.3.2 Face Port and Nose Block Device Removal
International original replacement spares
when repairing your helmet. The use of other Tools Required:
manufacturer’s parts will interfere with the 7/16 inch Open End Wrench
performance characteristics of your life sup- 1/4 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque Screw-
port equipment and may jeopardize your driver
safety. Additionally, any substitutions will Slip Joint Pliers
void all warranties offered by DSI.
1) First remove the nose block device knob (85) then
All the spare parts in our catalog were specifically the packing nut (84).
manufactured for Kirby Morgan designed helmets
and masks. When ordering spares, insist on DSI origi- 2) Slip the O-rings (82) off the nose block shaft (51)
nal parts. and pull the nose block device out through the inte-
rior of the oral nasal mask (50).
DANGER: All parts on the SuperLite-
27 must be adjusted to their proper torque
specifications. See Appendix 1 for a com-
plete listing of torque specifications for each
part. Failure to adjust parts to the recom-
mended specifications could lead to helmet
failure and accidents. This could be fatal.

7.2 PORT RETAINER

The port retainer (78) is made of chrome plated brass.
The nose block guide (83) is threaded into the port
retainer, and is easily replaced if damaged. Under
normal use, the port retainer should never need re-
placement.
Fig. 7.1 - Removing the nose block O-rings.

59
SL-27 MANUAL
3) Remove the handle (59) as per Section 7.13. 5) Be sure not to lose the O-ring (81) that is
located on the back side of the port retainer at
4)Next, unscrew the remaining twelve port re- the nose block device packing.
tainer screws (80, 89). Pull the retainer (78)
clear of the helmet shell (58). 6) The four whisker spacers (87) must not be
misplaced. They will usually be found lodged in
the whisker (86).

whisker
spacer

Fig. 7.2 - Removing the port retainer screws.

Fig. 7.5 - Don't misplace the whisker spacers.

7) Remove the old port (77) and sealing O-ring

(76).

7.3.3 Face Port and Nose Block Replacement

1) Clean the O-ring groove that is in the helmet

shell (58).

2) Coat the O-ring (76) with DC111 lubricant

and replace in the helmet shell (58).

Fig. 7.3 - Removing the port retainer.

Fig. 7.6- Clean the O-ring groove

Fig. 7.4 - Be sure to install the O-ring on the back of
the port retainer.
60
 SL-27 MANUAL
Place the entire port retainer onto the helmet
shell (58), holding it in place against the port
(77) and face port O-ring (76) while the twelve
screws ( 80, 89) are all run in loose. Replace the
handle (59) as per Section 7.13.2.

6) Slightly tighten each screw, one after an-

other, until they are all snug (12 inch pounds of
torque) and the O-ring (76) has completely sealed
the face port (77).

DANGER: Always be sure to use a

torque screwdriver to check the tension of
the port retainer screws. Overtightening can
cause damage to the threaded inserts in the
Fig. 7.7 - Lubricate the port O-ring and install in the
O-ring groove. fiberglass shell and cause them to loosen.
Without the correct tension the port retainer
WARNING: The O-ring on the face port may come loose and the helmet could flood.
of the SuperLite-27 is made from a special This could lead to drowning.
compound and has unique dimensions. It is
a softer durometer O-ring than is commonly
available. There are no equivalent O-rings
manufactured by other vendors. This O-ring
must be replaced with a D.S.I. O-ring. Fail-
ure to do so could lead to seal failure.

3) Place the new face port (77) into the helmet

shell (58) making sure the O-ring (76) is in its
proper groove.

4) Clean and lubricate the small O-ring (81).

5) Slip the O-ring (81) on the small tube that

protrudes from the rear of the port retainer (78). Fig. 7.9 - Always use a torque screwdriver to check the
tension of the port retainer screws.

7) Install the nose block device (51) from the

interior of the oral nasal mask (50) and out
through the lower packing fitting on the port
retainer (78).

8) Slide the two lubricated O-rings (82) onto the

shaft of the nose block device (51).

9) The packing nut (84) is threaded into place

followed by the nose block device knob (85).

10) Tighten the packing nut (84) until some

resistance is felt when the nose block device
Fig. 7.8 - Place the new face port into the helmet shell knob is pushed in and out. Tighten the nut until
61
SL-27 MANUAL
7.4 NECK DAM
There are two neck dams that may be used with
the SuperLite-27; a neoprene neck dam, which
is standard, and an optional latex neck dam.
Instructions for both types will be found here.

7.4.1 Removal of the Neck Dam

Tools required:
7/64 inch Allen wrench attachment on torque
screwdriver
#2 Phillips head attachment on torque screw-
driver
X-acto® knife or razor blade
Needle nose pliers
Small punch

1) Remove the O-ring (138) from the groove on

the outside of the neck ring assembly (148).

2) Use the hex key and unscrew all the screws

(145) from the stepped neck dam ring (141),
along with the 2 flat head (Phillips) screws
Fig. 7.10 - Install the nose (144) that secure the strap plate (143) and the 4
block device through the
flat head screws (147) that secure the chin strap.
interior of the oral nasal
mask.
3) Separate the split neck dam rings (139) and
neck dam (140) from the stepped neck dam ring
the shaft (51) will no longer
(141).
slide, then back the nut off until the shaft begins
to slide again. If this nut is too tight the nose 4) Discard the old neck dam.
block device cannot slide in and out.
5) Clean all parts as needed.
11) The nose block device knob (85) should be
tightened with a padded pair of pliers, while 7.4.2 Neoprene Neck Dam Replacement
holding the nose block pad on the inside of the Tools Required:
helmet. 7/64 inch Allen wrench attachment
on torque screwdriver
#2 Phillips attachment
WARNING: The polycarbonate mate-
on torque screwdriver
rial used In the face port (113) Is very strong.
Small, sharp punch
However, certain chemicals will attack the
port and weaken It. Some solvents used
CAUTION: DSI neoprene neck dams
for grease removal will attack the polycar-
come in a variety of sizes. Be sure to obtain
bonate . Use only mild detergents or organic
the right size neck dam for your neck. A neck
soaps to clean the face port. Never allow
dam that is too tight will be very uncomfort-
overspray of silicone lubricant to get on the
able and can cause you to pass out.
face port. Although the silicone's lubricant
is non-injurious, the propellent is usually
New neck dams (140) are supplied with no holes
Freon (chlorinated hydrocarbon) that will
punched in them for the mounting screws. As
damage the port.. This could cause the face
the screws are inserted and tightened they cut
port to fail after a minor impact.
their own holes in the neck dam.
62
 SL-27 MANUAL
Before starting installation, note the index Fig. 7.12 - The base of
marks, "notches" on the neck dam. These will the neck dam will be
marked and notched for
line up with the ends of the two split rings (139). alignment with the joints
You may find it useful to use a small piece of on the split rings.
tape to hold the split rings in alignment.

1) Lay the split neck dam ring on a flat level

work table with the two mating edges lined up to
face each other. Tape the two rings together
with a small bit of duct tape. Then flip the rings
over so the tape is on the bottom.

Fig. 7.13 - Place the neck dam on top of the split rings.

Fig. 7.11 - Tape the two rings together with a small bit of
duct tape.

2) Position the neck dam on top of the split rings

so the small opening is "up" or on top and the
large opening is "down" or on the bottom. The
neck dam will be inside out, with the seam tape
that covers the diagonal seam on the outside of
the neck dam. The base of the neck dam will be
marked and notched for alignment with the joints
on the split rings. Fig. 7.14 - Place the stepped neck dam ring on top of the
neck dam.

3) Place the stepped ring (141) over the neck

dam. The countersunk holes must be on top
while the step must be on the bottom. The tongue
on the front of the stepped ring will stick up
above the ring, too.

4) The alignment marks on the neck dam must

be positioned directly over the joints in the split
rings. The neck dam must also be properly
aligned from side to side with the curvature of
both the split rings and the stepped ring.

5) Using a small, sharp punch, push through the

neoprene and align the holes on either side of Fig. 7.15 - Use a small, sharp punch to locate the
the groove for the pull strap. bottom hole.

63
SL-27 MANUAL
6) Apply a small amount of DC111 lubricant to
the tip of the screws (145) that will secure the
neck dam. This keeps them from binding in the
neoprene on installation.

7) Insert the Allen head screws into the aligned

holes on either side of the pull strap groove and
start the screws. You must apply enough pres-
sure to penetrate the neoprene. Once the threads
engage continue tightening the screws three
turns.

8) Use the punch to align the two screw holes at

the base of the tongue on the stepped ring and Fig. 7.16 - Tighten all the screws to 14 inch pounds
start the screws in these holes. Tighten the (16 kg.cm.) of torque.
screws three turns. 17) Re-torque all screws after 24 hours to 14
inch lbs (16 kg cm).
9) Press down on the stepped ring midway be-
tween the two ends of the ring. Pull the edge of 18) Trim the excess neoprene that sticks out
the neck dam through the gap between the two beyond the stepped ring. Use a sharp razor to
sets of rings. The neck dam should protrude an start the cut. Once the cut is started, pull on the
equal distance all along the length of the ring neoprene and maintain tension on it as you
between the two ends. continue cutting. The cutting edge of the blade
should follow the outside rim of the split rings.
10) Install a screw at the widest diameter of the The point of the blade should be directed inside
stepped ring on one side and tighten three turns against the corner where the top of the stepped
once you have penetrated the neoprene. ring meets the step. You must have a clean cut
with no loose strips of neoprene hanging from
11) Install another screw directly across from the neck dam that could interfere with the seal
the one installed in Step #10, at the widest of the O-ring.
diameter of the stepped ring. Be sure that the
neck dam protrudes from between the rings the
same distance all the way around.

12) Install the remaining screws (145) as previ-

ously explained.

13) Install the pull strap assembly as per Section

7.5.2.

14) Install the chin strap assembly as per Sec-

tion 7.6.2.

15) Tighten all the screws to 14 inch pounds (16 Fig. 7.17 - Trim the excess neoprene using a sharp razor
kg cm) of torque.

16) Allow the neck ring assembly to sit for 24 19) Check the torque adjustment on the neck
hours. This will give the neoprene time to com- ring assembly on a regular basis to help prevent
press and take a set. failure of the neck seal.

64
 SL-27 MANUAL
20) New neoprene neck dams may need to be
stretched to fit the diver's neck properly. The
best method is to stretch the neck dam over a
scuba cylinder and allow it to sit overnight.

7.4.3 Latex Neck Dam Replacement

Tools Required:
7/64" Allen Wrench.
#2 Phillips Screwdriver
Torque Screwdriver with a 7/64" Allen wrench
attachment and #2 Phillips head screwdriver
attachment. Fig. 7.19 - Center the split rings by pressing on the dam and
Silicone Grease. feeling the inside edge of the stepped ring and the split rings.
Felt Tip pen. 4) Lubricate the tips of the neck dam mounting
Sharp Razor Blade screws (145) with silicone grease. This will
prevent them from grabbing and twisting the
New neck dams are supplied without mounting rubber.
screw holes punched in them. As the mounting
screws are inserted and tightened they cut their 5) Use the punch to align the holes, if necessary,
own holes in the neck dam. and start mount screws into each one of the split
rings, one on either side of the groove where the
1) Install the split rings inside the trimmed outer pull strap is mounted. This will help hold and
lip of the neck dam (140). Turn the neck dam align everything while the other screws are be-
over and lay it flat on the work surface. The split ing put in. Use a torque screwdriver with a 7/64"
rings will now be hidden by the neck dam. Allen wrench attachment. Press down and turn
the screw at the same time. This will punch the
hole in the neck dam and start the mount screw
into the split ring.

Fig. 7.18 - Install the split rings inside the trimmed

outer lip of the neck dam.

2) Place the stepped neck dam ring (141) on top

of the neck dam.

3) Align and center the stepped ring to the split

rings by looking at both ends. Feel the inside Fig. 7.20 - Use the screw to punch through the neck dam.
edge of the stepped ring and the split rings by
pressing on the dam. This will help you center
the split rings. NOTE: The neck dam, stepped ring and split
rings MUST be properly aligned in order to
get the screws to thread correctly.

65
SL-27 MANUAL
7) Tighten the screws to 10 inch lbs (12 kg cm) tension a little bit at a time, until 14 inch pounds
of torque. (16 kg cm) is reached on each individual screw.

NOTE: The center screws cannot be torqued

with a torque screwdriver, "hand torquing"
these with a 7/64" Allen wrench is sufficient.

10) Use a sharp razor blade to trim the excess

latex off the outside flap on the neck dam.

7.4.4 Trimming a Latex Neck Seal

Tools Required:
Large, sharp scissors

Anytime you replace the neck dam, it may need

to be adjusted (trimmed) to fit properly. New
neck dams are cone shaped and may be too tight
if not properly fitted to the diver's neck.
Fig. 7.21 - Tighten the screws to 10 inch pounds (12kg.cm.)
of torque.
WARNING: Never dive with a neck dam
that is too tight. A neck dam that is too tight
8) Install a second set of screws in the two holes could cause the diver to pass out due to pres-
immediately adjacent to the tongue on stepped sure on the carotid artery in the neck.
ring.
1) To trim the neck dam, have your tender hold
9) Once the 4 "holding" screws are in place, the neck dam open so that the two "edges" of the
screw the rest of the neck dam mount screws in neck dam are parallel. The neck dam should be
until snug. Then torque the neck dam mount under slight tension but should not be stretched
screws in a staggered pattern, taking up the beyond its normal length.

Fig. 7.23 - Trim latex neck dams with the largest,

sharpest scissors available.

2) Trim the neck dam with the largest, sharpest

scissors available in order to make as few cuts
as possible. There should be no jagged edges on
the neck dam or it may tear. Trim only 1/4 inch
(6.0 mm) off the neck dam at a time, trying it on
after each trim.
Fig. 7.22 - Use a sharp razor blade to trim the excess latex.

66
 SL-27 MANUAL
3) When you are done, the neck dam should be 2) Install the four screws (147) that hold the
just snug enough that it does not leak. This may chin strap in position.
feel a bit snug above water, but will be very
comfortable under water. 3) Tighten the screws until they are flush with
the mounting plates.
7.5 NECK DAM PULL STRAP
7.7 O-RING SEAL REPLACEMENT
7.5.1 Neck Dam Pull Strap Removal
Tools Required: The O-ring (138) on the neck dam ring assembly
#2 Phillips attachment on torque Screwdriver (148) must be replaced annually, or whenever it
shows signs of wear. The O-ring makes the seal
The neck dam pull strap (142) may become between the helmet ring on the base of the
worn through use. If it is only slightly frayed it helmet (58) and the neck dam ring assembly
is possible to singe the nylon with a match to (148).
help prevent further deterioration.
To replace the O-ring (138), simply stretch it
1) Unscrew the two screws (144) that secure the over the bottom of the sides of the neck dam ring
strap plate (143) to the stepped neck dam ring assembly (148). The O-ring must be lubricated
with a light coating of silicone grease before
7.5.2 Neck Dam Pull Strap Replacement each diving day.
1) Position the strap plate (143) over the pull
strap (142).

2) Screw the two screws (144) through the strap

plate and pull strap and into the stepped neck
dam ring (141) until the heads of the screws
bottom out against the strap plate. Do not over-
tighten.

7.6 CHIN STRAP

7.6.1 Chin Strap Removal

Tools Required:
7/64 inch Allen wrench attachment on torque
screwdriver
Fig. 7. 24 - Lubricate the O-ring with a light coating of
The chin strap must be replaced as a complete silicone grease before each diving day.
unit with its mounting plates.

1) Remove the four screws (147) that secure the

WARNING: The O-ring on the neck
chin strap (146) to the stepped ring (141).
dam ring of the SuperLite-27 is made from a
special compound and has unique dimen-
2) Remove the worn chip strap and discard.
sions. It is a softer durometer O-ring than is
7.6.2 Chin Strap Replacement commonly available. There are no equivalent
O-rings manufactured by other vendors. This
1) Position the new chin strap (146) on the O-ring must be replaced with a D.S.I. O-ring.
stepped neck dam ring. The buckle must be Failure to do so could lead to seal failure.
oriented so that the smallest side of the triangu-
lar shaped metal rings face the large end of the
stepped ring.
67
SL-27 MANUAL
7.8 HELMET RING
WARNING: The sealed pull pins must
7.8.1 Helmet Ring Repairs operate properly. If they do not lock prop-
erly the helmet could come off the diver un-
The metal ring on the base of the helmet (58) is derwater and drowning could result. If they
permanently installed at the DSI factory. The do not release when needed, they could
helmet ring is not designed to be removed by the make it impossible to remove the helmet in
diver. If the ring is damaged, such as damage to an emergency situation. Do not use the hel-
the sealing surface, or the ring is bent, the met unless the pins are operating correctly.
helmet must be returned to DSI through your
authorized dealer for repair or replacement. 7.9.1 Removal of Sealed Pull Pins

Tools Required:
7/64 Hex Key on Torque Screwdriver

1) Unscrew the hex head screws (54) from the

helmet ring on the base of the helmet (58).
54

127a

128
124
130 129 125
126a 124a Fig. 7.26 - Unscrew the hex head screws
127 126
2) Remove the sealed pull pins (130) by pulling
Fig. 7. 25 - The SL-27 Helmet Shell, Bottom Ring, Locking them out of the helmet ring.
Pin & Swing catch components.
3) Return the pins to your authorized dealer
replacement.
7.9 SEALED PULL PINS
7.9.2 Replacement of Sealed Pull Pins
The sealed pull pins (130) that lock the helmet
on the diver cannot be serviced in the field. If 1) Insert the pin(s) (130) into the helmet ring on
these pins do not work properly the pins must be the base of the helmet. The cam angle must be
returned to an authorized dealer for replace- correct for the pins to work.
ment. DSI recommends that these pins be ser-
viced annually. Your DSI dealer can provide 2) Apply a small amount of Loctite® 222 small
you with either new pins (DSI part # 505-110) or screw thread locker on the ends of the screws
factory refurbished ones (DSI part # 505-115). (54).
Refurbished pins are hand engraved with a "
S/R" on the body. 3) Insert the screws into the helmet ring and
tighten to 34 inch lbs (39kg.cm.) of torque.

68
 SL-27 MANUAL

Fig. 7.27 - The cam angle must be correct for the pins to
work.

7.10 SWING TONGUE CATCH

The swing tongue catch (126) assembly helps to
provide alignment for the front of the neck ring
assembly (148), as well as making it easier to
remove the helmet. The swing tongue catch should
rarely need attention or service, unless damaged
accidentally.
Fig. 7.28 - Tighten the screw (127a) to 24 inch pounds
(27kg.cm.).
7.10.1 Disassembly of the Swing Tongue Catch

Tools Required:
Screw driver

1) Remove the screw (129) on the right side of the

swing tongue catch.

2) Remove the spring spacer (128). Take care not

to lose the Teflon™ washer that is attached to the
inside of the swing tongue catch. If it comes loose
it must be glued back in place. (A quick dry rubber
cement works well).

3) Remove the screw (124) from the left side of the

swing tongue catch.

4) Remove the washer (124a) and the spacer (125).

The swing tongue catch should disengage from the Fig. 7.29 - Make sure you have not dislodged the Teflon®
washer.
spring now.

5) If the spring needs to be replaced this requires the

removal of the regulator and whisker in order to 7.10.2 Reassembly of the Swing Tongue Catch
remove the screw (127a). See Section 6.7.5 for in-
structions on how to remove the regulator and whis- Note: A drop of Loctite should be used on all
ker. screws.

69
SL-27 MANUAL
1) Insert the hooked end of the spring (127) into the 7.11 LOCKING COLLAR
small hole in the swing tongue catch (126). Slip the
swing tongue catch over the tongue of the helmet ring Proper function of the locking collar is essential
on the base of the helmet. The spring end goes on the since this device helps hold the helmet on the
right side. Make sure you have not dislodged the diver's head.
Teflon™ washer (126a).
7.11.1 Locking Collar Removal
2) Insert screw (129) and spring spacer (128) into the
spring and thread the screw into the tongue on the
helmet ring. Run the screw in until it is just snug.

3) Place the washer (124a) and spacer (125) on screw

(124) and insert the screw through the hole on the left
end of the swing catch.

4) Tighten screw (124) while insuring that the

spacer (125) fits through the hole in the swing
catch and no binding occurs.

5) Place the looped end of the spring on the top

side of the helmet ring and insert the screw
(127a) through it.

6) Tighten all three screws to 12 inch lbs (13kg cm)

of torque.

7) Test the function of the swing catch. Also, test Fig. 7.31 - Remove the two bolts from the hinge pin
prior to diving with the system to ensure proper
operation.

Fig. 7.30 - The Locking Collar components

152
149
150

154
151 158

152
153 155

156
157

70
 SL-27 MANUAL
Tools Required:
9/16 inch Open End Attachment on Torque
Wrench
9/16 inch Open End Wrench

If the locking collar is damaged through care-

less handling it may need to be replaced.

1) Use the open end wrench and torque wrench

to remove the two bolts (152) from the hinge pin
(151) and the two washers (149).

Fig. 7.34 - Prior to disassembly of the locking collar,

mark the position of the washers.

Fig. 7. 32- Slide the hinge pin out from the hinge.

Fig. 7.35 - Unscrew the two screws that hold the neck
pad.

Fig. 7.33 - Take care not to lose the two Teflon washers

2) Slide the hinge pin out of the hinge. Take care

not to lose the two Teflon washers (150) that sit
between the locking collar and the rear hinge on
the helmet.

3) Turn the sealed pull pins (130) until they are

disengaged and lift the locking collar away.

4) Clean all parts that will be reused. Fig. 7.36 - Slide the neck pad off the locking collar.

71
SL-27 MANUAL
7.11.2 Locking Collar Disassembly 7) Thread one of the bolts (152) onto the hinge
pin (151) finger tight.
Tools Required:
3/8" Slot blade attachment on torque screw- 8) Insert this assembly through one of the wash-
driver ers (149) and through the locking collar hinge
7/8" Open end wrench just far enough so that the tip of the hinge pin
shows at the first bolt hole on the locking collar
1) Prior to disassembly of the locking collar, mark the hinge.
position of the washers (158) so that it will be easy to
reinstall the neck pad. 9) Slide one of the Teflon ® washers (150) be-
tween the locking collar and hinge block on the
2) Unscrew the two screws (157) that hold the neck rear of the helmet ring.
pad. Take care not to lose the T-washers (156) or
washers (158). 10) Push the hinge pin (151) through the open-
ing in the washer and all the way through both
3) Slide the neck pad (155) off the locking collar hinge blocks until the tip of the bolt just pro-
(153). trudes from the opening in the second hinge
block.
4) If the neck pad needs replacement, remove
and save the screws (157) and washers (156, 11) Slide the second Teflon® washer (150) be-
158) for reuse. tween the hinge block and the locking collar.

7.11.3 Locking Collar Reassembly 12) Push the hinge pin (151) through the open-
ing in the second Teflon® washer (150) and the
1) Inspect the Teflon® washers (150) for wear. locking collar until it protrudes from the lock-
Replace if necessary. ing collar.

2) Inspect the neck pad (155). Replace if dam- 13) Install the second washer (149) onto the protrud-
aged. ing hinge pin.

3) Install the washers (158) and T-washers (156) 14) Apply Loctite® 222 to the second bolt (152) and
in the recesses in the neck pad. screw into the hinge pin finger tight.

4) Slide the neck pad onto the locking collar

(155). The neck pad must be oriented so that the
groove for the pull strap (142) will be on the
inside of the helmet. The large flange on the
neck pad must be on the outside of the locking
collar.

5) Align the neck pad using the previous posi-

tion of the mount nuts. Insert the screws (157)
and tighten them with the mount nuts (154).

6) With the helmet resting face down, place the

locking collar in position on the hinge on the
bottom of the helmet ring, but do not close the
catch mechanism.

Fig. 7.37 - Apply Loctite™ 222 just prior to final tightening.

72
 SL-27 MANUAL
15) Unscrew the first bolt and apply Loctite™ 222
and screw into the hinge pin finger tight.

16) Use the two open end wrenches to tighten the

bolts (152) to 100 inch lbs, (112 kg cm) of torque.

7.12 HEAD CUSHION & CHIN CUSHION

7.12.1 Head Cushion Foam

Fig. 7.39 - The chin cushion.

7.12.2 Chin Cushion Foam

Like the head cushion, the foam in the chin cushion
(41) must be replaced when the foam begins to
crumble. The foam for the chin cushion is included
when the kit for the head cushion is ordered.

7.13 HANDLE AND WEIGHTS

7.13.1 Handle Removal

Tools Required:
Fig. 7.38 - The head cushion foam is easily replaceable. 1/4 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque
Screwdriver
The head cushion (40) foam must be replaced when
the foam begins to crumble. Order Replacement The handle (59) is a convenient location to
Foam Kit (DSI Part #510-672). A loose head cush- mount television cameras, lights, and other in-
ion will create a sloppy fit to the helmet and cause struments. If the handle is to be drilled to accept
discomfort to the diver. any of these items, it should be removed to
prevent damage to the helmet shell (58).
1) To replace the foam in the head cushion, open the
Velcro™ seams along the vertical top center line of 1) The front of the handle is removed by un-
the head cushion, at the center of the collar, and the screwing the top three port retainer screws (60).
diagonal seams along each side.
2) Remove the rear handle mount screw (55).
2) Pull the old foam out and remove any small pieces.
3) Pull up on the handle (59) to break loose the
3) Install the new foam, taking care to prevent it from RTV (silicone sealant) seal.
bunching up.

73
SL-27 MANUAL
2) Place a liberal amount of RTV on the rear mount
surface of the handle and in the mount screw hole of
the helmet shell.

Fig. 7.40 - Unscrew the top three port retainer screws.

Fig. 7.43 - RTV the rear mount surface of the handle and in
Fig. 7.41 - Pull up on the handle to break it loose. the mount screw hole of the helmet shell.

3) Position the handle (59) and screw in the front

mount screws (60) until snug, not tight.

4) Hold the handle in place and thread the rear mount

screw (55) with its washer (56). Adjust this screw
until it is snug, not tight.

5) Tighten the front mount screws (60) to 12 lbs.

(13kg cm) of torque.

6) Tighten the rear mount screw (55).

7) Wipe off any excess RTV (silicone sealant).

Fig. 7.42 - Clean off all the old RTV silicone sealant.
WARNING: Avoid skin contact with
lacquer thinner and silicone sealant. Wear
7.13.2 Handle Replacement rubber gloves. Avoid breathing fumes and
1) Clean off all the old RTV (silicone sealant) re- use in a well ventilated area.
maining on the handle (59) and helmet shell (58).

74
 SL-27 MANUAL
7.13.3 Side Weight Removal
Tools Required:
Flat Blade Screw Driver
Wooden wedge
Rubber mallet

1) To remove the side weight (61), first unscrew the

two screws (62) on the inside of the helmet. It is not
necessary to remove the four screws (61a) on the
outside of the weight. Their only purpose is to serve
as an additional mounting point for lights, TV cam-
eras, etc.

Fig. 7. 45 - Use a wooden wedge and the mallet to break the

seal between the weight and the helmet shell. DO NOT USE A
SCREWDRIVER OR CHISEL TO REMOVE THE WEIGHT.
This could damage the helmet shell, requiring expensive repair.

7.13.4 Side Weight Replacement

Fig. 7.44 - Unscrew the two screws on the inside of the 1) Apply silicone RTV sealant to the area where the
helmet. side weight (61) sits. Be sure to apply sealant to the
holes where the screws (62) attach to the weight.

2) Thread the screws (62) into the weight. Tighten

2) Use a wooden wedge and a mallet to break the
securely.
seal between the weight and the helmet shell (58).
3) Wipe off any excess silicone sealant.
3) Remove the weight and clean off all the old RTV
(silicone sealant). 7.14 REAR WEIGHT (OPTIONAL)

WARNING: Avoid skin contact with The rear weight is an optional accessory for divers
lacquer thinner and silicone sealant. Wear who want to decrease the buoyancy of their helmet.
rubber gloves. Avoid breathing fumes and
use in a well ventilated area. 7.14.1 Rear Weight Removal

Tools Required:
Flat Blade Torque Screwdriver
Rubber Mallet
Wooden Wedge
75
SL-27 MANUAL
1) To remove the rear weight, loosen the screws (57b).
Remove the screws completely.

2) Use the wooden wedge and mallet to loosen the

weight.

3) Clean off all traces of silicone sealant (RTV).

WARNING: Avoid skin contact with

lacquer thinner and silicone sealant. Wear
rubber gloves. Avoid breathing fumes and
use in a well ventilated area.
Fig. 7.46 - Removing the rubber cover from the earphone.
7.14.2 Rear Weight Replacement

1) Apply silicone sealant to the area where the rear

weight (57) fits. Be sure to apply sealant to the holes
where the screws (57b) attach to the weight.

2) Place the washers (57a) on the screws (57b) and

thread the screws into the weight (57).

3) Tighten the screws securely.

4) Wipe off any excess silicone sealant.

7.15 COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM

7.15.1 General Fig. 7.47 - Inspect the mylar earphone.
The communications system in the SuperLite-27 re- are a poor investment. Cardboard speakers must be
quires regular attention and maintenance for proper replaced almost five times as often as mylar speak-
function. Clear two way speech communications ers. Cardboard speakers should only be used in emer-
between the diver and the surface crew is one of the gency situations.
most important capabilities of surface supplied div-
ing operations. 4) If the rubber covers are worn or damaged, replace
7.15.2 Earphone Inspection them also.

To service the earphones, first remove the head cush-

ion (40) from the helmet. The earphones (132,133) 7.15.3 Removal of Communications Assembly
Tools Required:
can be carefully pulled out of the retainers (42) in
None
the helmet shell (58) for inspection and disassembly.
The entire communications assembly (135) can be
1) The rubber front cover is removed first, the rear
replaced as follows:
cover is next removed. The protector is now free.
1) Slide the earphones (132,133) out of the retainers
2) Check the wire connections. They should be solid.
(42).
3) Check the mylar diaphragm. If the mylar is torn
2) Pull the microphone (131) out of the oral/nasal
or loose, replace the entire unit, preferably with a
mask (50).
corrosion resistant, chrome plated mylar speaker (DSI
Part # 515-008) Although cardboard speakers are
3) Unscrew the nut (114) on the outside of the hel-
available at a lower cost than mylar speakers, they
met shell (58).
76
 SL-27 MANUAL
4) Push the communications module (116) into the
helmet shell interior. Remove the O-ring (115).

5) The entire communications assembly (135) can

be replaced with a spare assembly for the most rapid
turnaround.

7.15.4 Replacement of Communications

Assembly
1) Install the O-ring (115) on the communications
module. Fig. 7.48 - Remove the rubber cover from the
communications module.

2) Carefully push the communications module (116)

through the opening in the helmet shell (58). The 5) Install the terminals for the replacement micro-
communications posts (136), or waterproof connec- phone (131). Note that the wires must go on sepa-
tor (137) if present, should be pointed toward the rate terminals as before.
rear of the helmet.
6) Install the microphone in the oral nasal mask.
3) Screw the nut (114) onto the communications
module (116). Tighten until snug against the helmet.

4) Place the earphones in the earphone retainers.

5) Route the earphone wires so they do not obscure

the diver’s vision. The wire for the left speaker (132)
is tucked into the space between the bottom of the
oral nasal mask (50) and the helmet shell.

7.15.5 Microphone Replacement

Tools Required:
1/8 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque Screw-
driver

The entire microphone (131) is replaced the same as

the earphones by removing the wire lugs from the
communications module (116) and replacing the en-
tire unit.
Fig. 7.49 - Install the microphone in the oral nasal mask.
1) Remove the entire communications assembly
(135) as per Section 7.15.4.
7.15.6 Earphone Replacement
2) Remove the rubber cover (120). Tools Required:
1/8 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque Screw-
3) Remove the screws (121) and washers (122) from driver
the communications module (116).
The earphones may be replaced individually if
4) Lift the terminal lugs out of the communications needed, however, if one is “bad”, the other earphone
module. Note the position of the terminal wires. will probably need to be replaced soon, too.
77
SL-27 MANUAL
7.15.7 Waterproof Connector

1) Remove the entire communications assembly SuperLite-27 helmets are supplied either with an
(135) as per Section 7.15.4. optional waterproof connector (137) or a set of ter-
minal posts. The optional waterproof connector is
2) Remove the rubber cover of the communications subject to failure if the helmet receives rough han-
module. dling. To replace the connector use the following pro-
cedure.
3) Remove the screws (121) and washers (122) from
the communications module (116). 7.15.7.1 Connector Removal
Tools Required:
4) Lift the terminal lugs out of the communications
3/4 inch Open End Wrench
module. Note the position of the terminal wires.
1/8 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque Screw-
driver
5) Install the terminals for the earphones (132,133).
Note that the wires must go on separate terminals as 1) Remove the communications assembly (135) from
before. the helmet as per Section 7.15.4.

2) Remove the rubber cover (120).

Fig. 7.50 - The communications components..

133
137
a ti o n a l
In
tern Sa
nt a 132
s

B
Diving System

ar
ba
ra
C
A U
SA

136

114
115

120
119 122
117 116

121
123
118
131

78
 SL-27 MANUAL
3) Remove the screws (121) and washers (122) from 7.15.7.2 Connector Replacement
the communications module (116). 1) Insert the new waterproof connector (137) into
the communications module.
4) Remove the earphone and microphone wire lugs
from the interior of the communications module. 2) Screw the waterproof connector into the nut.
Tighten until snug.
5) The nut (117) in the packing gland interior of the
communications module (116) will not turn, as it will 3) Slip the earphone and microphone wires back into
jam against the interior of the communications mod- the module (116).
ule. Use the 3/4 inch wrench to unscrew the water-
proof connector. 4) Place the screws (121) and washers (122) through
the opening on the terminal lugs in the connector
6) Pull the connector through the module. (137) and earphone and microphone.

5) Thread the screws (121) into the communications

module.

6) Tighten the screws (121) until snug. Do not over-

tighten.

7) Install the rubber cover (120).

7.15.8 Communications Posts

7.15.8.1 Communications Post Removal

Tools Required;
3/8 inch Open End Wrench
Flat Blade Attachment on Torque Screwdriver
Fig. 7.51 - Usea 3/4 inch wrench to unscrew the waterproof
1) Remove the communications assembly (135) from
connector.
the helmet as per Section 7.15.4.

2) Remove the rubber cover (120).

3) Remove the screws (121) and washers (122) from

the communications module (116).

4) Remove the earphone and microphone wire lugs

from the interior of the communications module.

5) Remove the nuts (118), the wiring harness (123)

and washers (119) from the communications posts
(136).

6) Remove the communications posts (136) from the

Fig. 7.52- Pull the connector out of the module. module.

7) Remove all traces of silicone sealant from the com-

munications module.

79
SL-27 MANUAL
7.15.8.2 Communications Post Replacement

1) Apply fresh RTV (silicone sealant) to the base of

the communications posts (136).

2) Insert the communications posts (136) into the

module (116).

3) Install the washers (119) on the communications

posts (136), then the wiring harnesses (123).

4) Screw the nuts (118) on the communications posts

and tighten until snug. Do not overtighten.
Fig. 7.53 - Use a wrench to tighten the binding post nuts.
5) Wipe off any excess silicone sealant from the
module.

6) Slip the earphone and microphone wires back into

the module through the slot in the side of the mod-
ule.

7) Place the screws (121) and washers (122) through

the opening on the terminal lugs in the earphones,
microphone, and wiring harnesses (123).

8) Thread the screws (121) into the communications

module (116).

9) Tighten the screws until snug; do not overtighten.

10) Install the rubber cover (120).

11) Reinstall the communications assembly into the

helmet shell per Section 7.15.4.

80
 SL-27 MANUAL
CHAPTER 8.0

ACCESSORIES

8.1 INTRODUCTION

This section provides the manufacturer’s ad- 1) Disconnect the bent tube assembly (16) at the
vice on how to install DSI accessories including side block end only. Loosen the jam nut (108) at
the hot water shroud, low pressure inflator hoses, the regulator. If the bent tube will not swivel
the optional locking pin, and the weld lens freely, you must loosen the large nut at the
assembly. regulator.

8.2 HOT WATER SHROUD INSTALLATION

PROCEDURES
The Hot Water Shroud (DSI Part #525-100)
should be used whenever diving in water colder
than 35.6 0 (2 0 C). The DSI hot water kit is
designed to be integrated with a hot water sup-
ply to help maintain breathing gas temperature
at an acceptable level for the diver. In addition
the hot water reduces the possibility of ice form-
ing in the demand regulator or gas train compo-
nents. Even with water temperatures of 40F
(4 0 C) the diver can experience discomfort and Fig. 8.1 - Loosen the bent tube.
severe heat loss through the respiration process.
For this reason, DSI recommends installing the 2) Remove the free flow knob (3), locknut (1),
hot water shroud when diving in waters colder and spring (2).
than 40 F (4 0 C). Water supply to shroud assem-
bly should be at least 1 gallon (3.7 liters) per
minute at a minimum temperature of 105 F
(42 0 C). When diving operations are conducted
during severe cold surface temperatures a hot
water shroud should be used to prevent ice from
developing in and on gas train components while
the diver is on the surface.

Tools Required:
1/4 inch Flat Blade Screwdriver
7/8 inch open end wrench
Torque Wrench
7/8 inch Open End Attachment for Torque
Wrench
11/16 inch Open End Attachment for Torque Fig. 8.2 - Remove the free flow knob.
Wrench
81
SL-27 MANUAL
3) Remove the emergency valve knob (24), nut
(26), and spring (25).
4) Screw the regulator adjustment knob (98) in
all the way.
5) To install the rubber regulator cover, slide it
over the bent tube assembly (16) and stretch it
over the regulator adjustment knob (98).

Fig. 8.3 - Position the shroud over the side block. Fig. 8.5 - Install the corrugated tube.

6) Install the rubber side block cover. Start by 8) Install the second PVC flange in one end of
inserting the non-return valve (37) through the the corrugated tube, (1/4 of the flange should
square hole on the back side of the cover. All the still show).
other holes will then line up correctly.
9) Compress the corrugated tube and slide it
7) Slide one of the PVC Flanges (DSI Part #520- over the bent tube (16). The PVC flange previ-
046) over the bent tube (16). ously installed in the corrugated tube mates
with the side block cover.

Fig. 8.4 - Slide one of the PVC pieces over the bent tube Fig. 8.6 - Install the PVC piece at the other end of the
and insert it into the regulator shroud. corrugated tube.
82
 SL-27 MANUAL
10) Attach the side block end of the bent tube to the
side block assembly (39). Using the torque wrench
and 11/16 attachment, tighten to 100 inch lbs (112
kgcm). if the regulator end of the bent tube was
loosened, torque the jam nut (108) to 100 inch lbs
(112 kg cm).

11) Retighten jam nut (108). You will need to

slide the PVC flange towards the side block.

12) Stretch the corrugated tube over the side

block and regulator covers.

13) Attach the tie wraps over the corrugated

tube at the PVC stiffeners and tighten.
Fig. 8. 8 - The complete installation.

8.3 LOW PRESSURE INFLATOR HOSE IN-

STALLATION ON THE SIDE BLOCK

The low pressure inflator system may be used

with either conventional buoyancy compensa-
tors or dry suit systems. For certain pieces of
equipment it may be necessary to use a longer
inflator hose than is originally supplied by the
manufacturer of the low pressure system.

Tools Required:
5/32 inch Allen Wrench Attachment on Torque
Wrench
Fig. 8.7 - Install the tie wraps.
1) Remove the plug (17) from the side block.
Save this plug
14) Trim the excess ends from the tie wraps. .

15) Reinstall the free flow knob (3), spring (2),

and lock nut (1). Tighten with a flat blade screw-
driver until the valve stem is flush with the lock nut
face.

16) Reinstall the emergency valve knob (24),

spring (25), and nut (26). Tighten the locknut
with a flat blade screwdriver until the valve stem is
flush with the lock nut face.

17) The completed installation should appear as

pictured in Figure 8.8.

Fig. 8.9 - Removing the plug from the side block.

83
SL-27 MANUAL
2) Check the O-ring on the low pressure whip to
be sure it is present and in good condition.
Carefully screw the low pressure whip into the
side block.

3) Tighten fitting to the specifications provided

by the dry suit manufacturer. Do not overtighten.

Fig. 8.11 - Remove the two plug screws from the port retainer
2) Insert the bolts through the spacer washers
and then through the mount ears.

Fig. 8.10 - Installing a low pressure inflator hose for a

dry suit.

4) Pressurize helmet and test connection for

leaks.

CAUTION! When using the low pres-

sure port on the side block for attachment
of a low pressure hose, a hose with built in
flow restriction or the DSI Flow Restrictor
Adapter, DSI P/N 555-210 must be used.
Fig. 8.12 - Insert the screws through the mount ears.

8.4 WELD LENS/WELD SHIELD

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

Tools Required:
3/8 inch Open End Wrench
1/4 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque
Screwdriver

1) Remove the two plug screws (79) from the

port retainer (78). Refer to the drawing in-
cluded with the weld lens or weld shield assem-
bly kit for the remainder of the location num-
bers.

84
 SL-27 MANUAL
3) With the rubber bumpers facing the inside of
the helmet(weld lens assembly), install and Caution - Warning
tighten the two mount bolts into the port re- These assemblies are designed to provide
tainer. visual protection only. We highly recommend
that extreme caution be exercised by all divers,
regardless of helmet or mask used, to avoid the
possibility of underwater explosions when cut-
ting or welding. It cannot be over stressed that
any underwater explosion can result in the
injury or death of the diver!

Fig. 8.13 - Tighten the weld lens assembly.

DANGER: Use only the bolts provided

with the kits for installation of these assem-
blies. Longer bolts will damage the helmet
shell and/or the threaded inserts. This could
cause flooding through the port.

4) Tighten the two lock nuts on the ends of the

hinge studs so that the welding lens assembly
can be flipped up, but will not fall down from its
own weight. The Weld Shield assembly comes
pretightened from the factory and should not
need any adjustment.

85
SL-27 MANUAL
8.6 USE OF QUICK DISCONNECT 8.7 DOUBLE EXHAUST INSTALLATION

A Quick Disconnect can be used with all bail- The double exhaust system is used in situations
out systems. It provides greater convenience on where the diver needs added protection to help pre-
deck while dressing the diver. It also makes it vent a back flow of biological and certain chemical
possible to separate the attachment of the bail- contaminants into the helmet. On the SuperLite 27
out from the helmet should the diver become this is accomplished through a specially designed
entangled underwater. All quick disconnects used whisker assembly which incorporates two mush-
must be of good quality and be capable of supplying room style flapper valves. This system has been used
gas without any additional flow restriction. All quick successfully for diving in biologically contaminated
disconnects used in countries that adhere to CE environments. However, there are certain chemicals
standards must be CE approved. (i.e. Toluene, Acetic acid etc.) that will attack the
rubber in the valves in the exhaust assembly .
A quick disconnect is designed to be installed in BE AWARE OF WHAT YOU ARE DIVING IN!
any low pressure port of the diver’s bail-out All divers must be aware of the types of pollutants
regulator. The connector splits the hose into and concentrations that they are working in. IT IS
two halves, with a male connector on one end EXTREMELY IMPORTANT THAT DIVERS BE
and a female connector on the other. The female SPECIFICALLY TRAINED AND UNDERSTAND
connector should be equipped with a sleeve THE HAZARD'S ASSOCIATED WITH CON-
lock that must be properly aligned before the TAMINATED WATER DIVING. More informa-
hose can be disengaged. tion on contaminated diving and high-risk chemicals
may be found in the publication "Diving in High-
One end of the connector is designed to be
Risk Environments" by Steven Barsky.
attached to the emergency valve assembly (27),
while the other end of the connector is designed
It is important that divers are aware that the double
to attach to any of the standard low pressure
exhaust valve assembly increases the exhalation ef-
ports on the DSI SuperFlow first stage regulator
fort of the regulator and therefore the overall work of
(or any high performance regulator) used for
breathing. This increase is not normally noticed at
the bail-out supply.
depths of less than 100 fsw (30 msw) but becomes
Fig. 8.14 - Using the quick disconnect.
more apparent as depth increases. This is due in part
to the increased density of the breathing gas which
causes and increase in exhalation effort and raises the
overall work effort required by the diver to breath.
The diver should take this into consideration and
either restrict dives using the double exhaust to
depths of less than 100 fsw (30 msw) or adjust his
work load/rate so as not to become exhausted.

86
 SL-27 MANUAL

CAUTION! When diving the helmet

with the double exhaust whisker assembly
the diver should adjust his work load/rate
so as not to become exhausted.

Tools Required:
1/4 inch Flat Blade Attachment on Torque
Screwdriver
Fig. 8.15 - Attach the Double Exhaust
1) Remove the two whisker kidney plates and Whisker to the Regulator Exhaust Flange
spacers and screws. One set of these will be
used in the installation/reassembly.

2) Following the instructions in section 6.7.5,

remove the regulator, exhaust whisker, and wa-
ter dump shroud. This will require removal of
the nose block device, oral nasal, and bent tube.

3) Following the instructions in the Section

6.7.2 remove the regulator cover & diaphragm.
Replace the regulator exhaust valve with a new Fig. 8.16 - Secure the Double Exhaust
one, 510-552 (white valve). Reassemble the Whisker to the regulator .
regulator.

4) Attach the double exhaust whisker to the

regulator exhaust flange. Secure with a tie wrap,
520-039.

5) Replace the water dump valve with the new

valve. 510-557 (blue valve).

6) Install the regulator in the helmet shell, install the

regulator mount O-ring and mount nut. Hand tighten
only. Fig 8.17 - Replace the Water Dump Valve with the new valve.

7) Attach the double exhaust whisker to the

water dump body. Make sure the internal rubber
ridge is in the groove in the water dump body.
Secure it with a tie wrap, 520-042.

8) Attach the bent tube.

9) Secure the outlet side of the whisker with the

two screws, spacers, and kidney plate removed
earlier.

Fig. 8.18 - Attach the Double Exhaust Whisker to the Water

Dump Body with a Tie Wrap.

87
SL-27 MANUAL
10) Use the two new short screws in place of the concentrations of these pollutants in the water they
previously removed screws and kidney plate on are working in. It is extremely important that divers
the left side of the port retainer. Torque to 12 diving in polluted waters be specifically trained and
inch lbs (13kgcm). understand the hazard's associated with the type of
pollutants in the water they are to be diving in.
CAUTION! Do not use the screws re-
moved earlier! Using these will damage the When using the double exhaust system it is impor-
helmet! tant to understand that the overall resistive effort of
breathing will increase as depth increases. This in-
11) Torque the regulator mount nut (49) to 100 crease in breathing resistance is due in part, to the
inch lbs (112kgcm). addition of a second exhaust valve in the modified
whisker assembly. Normally, when diving to depths
12) On the bent tube assembly carefully inspect the of 100 FSW (30msw) or less, this increase in breath-
static O-ring (15) and teflon O-ring (13), replace if ing resistance is not apparent to the diver. As depth
necessary. Reinstall the bent tube assembly and torque beyond this increases so to does the density of the
the side block tube fitting to 100 inch lbs (112kgcm). breathing gas which causes an increase in exhala-
tion effort and raises the overall work effort required
13) Reinstall the oral nasal & nose block de- by the diver to breath. For this reason the diver should
vice. restrict the use of the double exhaust system for dives
requiring heavy work rates to depths less than 100
DANGER! Any Helmet/Dry Suit Sys- FSW (30 msw), or tailor the work rate so as not to
tem must be leak tested according to become overworked or exhausted.
manufacture's instructions before EVERY
dive in contaminated water! More information on contaminated diving and high
risk chemicals may be found in the publication "div-
ing in high risk environments " by Steven Barsky"
The DSI double exhaust system is normally used on
the SL-27 for situations where the diver needs the
added protection of the double exhaust configura-
tion. Typically, where dives are being conducted in CAUTION! When diving the helmet with
polluted harbors or rivers where the situation may the double exhaust whisker assembly, the
require the need for the added environmental pro- diver must adjust his or her work rate so as
tection. The double exhaust system was designed to not to become exhausted.
help minimize or reduce the risk of water born bio-
logical and certain chemical contaminants from en-
tering the helmet through the exhaust whisker as-
sembly. This is accomplished with a specially de-
signed whisker assembly that incorporates two mush-
room style flapper valves. The system has been used
successfully for diving in biologically contaminated
environments. However, certain chemicals [i.e. Tolu-
ene, Acetic acid, etc.] will attack the rubber valves
of the assembly as well as the whisker itself. BE
AWARE OF WHAT YOU ARE DIVING IN! All
divers must be aware of the types of pollutants, and

88
SL-27 MANUAL

APPENDIX 1 : TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

LOCATION TORQUE IN TORQUE
DSI PART # DESCRIPTION
NUMBER INCH POUNDS KG.CM

5 550-020 Bonnet 100 112

11 550-024 Stud 50 56
14 555-154 Bent Tube assy., side block end 100 112
17 550-094 L.P. Plug 50 56
19 550-140 Emergency valve body 3 turns by hand, 3
3 turns by wrench 3
23 550-032 Packing nut 45 after seating 4
29 Body 240 270
35 Seat 240 270
36 555-117 Adapter, brass 3 turns by hand, 3
3 turns by wrench 3
37 555-195 One way valve 240 270
46 530-018 Screw 16 18
54 530-015 Screw 34 38
49 550-081 Nut, regulator mount 100 112
55 & 62 530-070 Screw 30 26
60 530-045 Screw 12 13
69 530-317 Nut 20 23
66 530-317 Nut 45 50
70 530-050 Screw 18 20
71 530-032 Screw 14 16
85 550-062 Knob, nose block 23 25
80 530-035 Screw 12 13
79 530-052 Screw 18 20
97 550-055 Packing nut 40 after seating 4
102 530-030 Screw 8 10
109 550-048 Inlet Nipple 40 46
108 550-050 Jam Nut 100 112
89 530-045 Screw 12 13
127a 530-032 Screw 24 26
145 530-024 Screw 14 16
144 530-220 Screw 14 16
147 530-022 Screw 24 25
152 530-200 Bolt 100 112
157 530-064 Screw 36 40

89
 SL-27 MANUAL

Table of Equivalents

To convert units appearing in TO CONVERT INTO MULTIPLY BY

Column 1 (left column) into INTO TO CONVERT DIVIDE BY
equivalent values in Column
2 (center column), multiply Atmospheres Feet of Water 33.9
Atmospheres Inches of Mercury (Hg) 29.92
by factor in Column 3. Ex- Atmospheres PSI (LBS per Sq. Inch 14.7
ample: To convert 7 gallons BTU Foot Pounds 778.3
into cubic inches, multiply 7 BTU per hour Watts 0.2931
x 231 = 1617. To convert BTU per minute HorsePower 0.02356
Celsius (Centigrade) Fahrenheit o
C x 1.8 + 32
units appearing in Column 2 Centimeters Inches 0.3937
(center) into equivalent val- Cubic Centimeters Gallons (U.S. Liquid) 0.0002642
ues of units in Column 1 (left), Cubic Centimeters Liters 0.0001
Cubic Feet Cubic Inches 1728
divide by factor in Column Gallons (U.S. Liquid)
Cubic Feet 7.48052
3. Example: To convert 25 Cubic Inches Cubic Feet 0.0005787
horsepower into Btu per Cubic Inches Gallons (U.S. Liquid) 0.004329
minute, divide 25 by 0.02356 Days Seconds 86.400
Degrees (Angle) Radians 0.01745
= 1061 Meters 0.3048
Feet
Feet Miles 0.0001894
Feet of Water Atmospheres 0.0295
Feet of Water Inches of Mercury (Hg) 0.8826
Feet of Water PSI (Lbs per Sq. Inch) 0.4335
Feet per Minute Miles per Hour 0.01136
Feet per Second Miles per Hour 0.6818
Foot-Pounds BTU 0.001286
Foot-Pounds per Minute Horsepower 0.0000303
Foot-Pounds per Second Horsepower 0.001818
Gallons (U.S. Liquid) Cubic Feet 0.1337
Gallons (U.S. Liquid) Cubic Inches 231
Gallons of Water Pounds of Water 8.3453
Horsepower BTU per Minute 42.44
Horsepower Foot-Pound per Minute 33,000
Horsepower Foot Pounds per Second 550
Horsepower Watts 745.7
Hours Days 0.04167
Hours Weeks 0.005952
Inches Centimeters 2.54
Inches of Mercury (Hg) Atmospheres 0.03342
Inches of Mercury (Hg) Feet of Water 1.133
Inches of Mercury (Hg) PSI (Lbs. per Sq. Inch) 0.4912
Inches of Water PSI (Lbs. per Sq. Inch) 0.03613
Liters Cubic Centimeters 1000
Liters Gallons (U.S. Liquid) 0.2642
Micron Inches 0.00004
Miles (Statute) Feet 5280
Miles per hour (MPH) Feet per Minute 88
Miles per hour Feet per Second 1.467
Ounces (Weight) Pounds 0.0625
Ounces (Liquid) Cubic Inches 1.805
Pints (Liquid) Quarts (Liquid) 0.5
Pounds Grains 7000
Pounds Grams 453.59
Pounds Ounces 16
PSI (Pounds per Sq. Inch) Atmospheres 0.06804
PSI (Pounds per Sq. Inch) Feet of Water 2.307
PSI (Pounds per Sq. Inch) Inches of Mercury (Hg) 2.036
Quarts Gallons 0.25
Square Feet Square Inches 144
Temperature (oF - 32) Temperature (oC) 0.5555
Tons (U.S.) Pounds 2000
Watts Horsepower 0.001341

90