XS Scuba Buoyancy Compensator Boating Equipment User Manual
Contents
1. SERVICE 3 XS Scuba Dealer ____________________________________________________________ Technician Signature _______________________________ Date ___________________ 2740 S Harbor Blvd Suite E Santa Ana CA 92704 tel 714 424 0434 fax 714 424 0454 www XSscuba com 2005 XS Scuba Inc2. c legal rights You may have rights which vary from state to state and country to country XS SCUBA DISCLAIMS AND EXCLUDES ANY LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES Some states in the U S and certain foreign countries do not allow exclusions or limitations of liability for incidental consequential or indirect costs expenses or damages incurred while using this product so this may not apply to you Returning Your BC For Service Whenever your BC requires annual service or warranty repair it is important to bring it to an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer Be sure to provide the dealer with photocopies of your original sales receipt and service records For the location of the dealer nearest you or additional information visit our website at www XSscuba com Service Record Model _______________ Serial Number ______________ Purchase Date ___________ XS Scuba Dealer ____________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________ Phone ___________________________ SERVICE 1 XS Scuba Dealer ____________________________________________________________ Technician Signature _______________________________ Date ___________________ SERVICE 2 XS Scuba Dealer ____________________________________________________________ Technician Signature _______________________________ Date ___________________
3. 20 lbs Experiment with different sizes of weight until you arrive at the con guration that best suits your personal preference and provides maximum comfort 10 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc Preparation amp Setup XS Scuba recommends that you bring your BC together with your regulator to your Authorized XS Scuba Dealer for the installation of the low pressure LP quick disconnect in ator hose that is provided with your BC If it is not possible to return with your regulator to your Authorized Dealer you may install the LP in ator hose by carefully performing all the steps in the following procedure LP In ator Hose Installation WARNING DO NOT attach the low pressure in ator hose to a high pressure HP port greater than 200 psi 13 6 bar This may cause the hose to burst when pressurized which can result in serious injury The LP hose has a 3 8 9 5mm male tting that will only t the standard LP ports found on most rst stages and is smaller than the standard 7 16 11mm HP port Some older regulators have HP and LP ports that are the same size 3 8 9 5mm All XS Scuba regulators and most provided by other manufacturers have a high pressure port that is clearly marked HP with a small restrictive ori ce that is visible when the plug is removed If your regulator has all 3 8 ports and you cannot decide if a port is LP or HP bring it with the hose to your dealer for installation I
4. ator by a cable located inside the corrugated hose This valve can be opened to BC Owner s Manual 7 XS Scuba Inc vent air by pulling the power in ator straight down It works best while you are in a vertical heads up position or in a face down swimming position WARNING The OPV in the Integrated In ator is set at a lower relief pressure than the optional OPV located on the back of some BC models to prevent damage to the material of the BC air cell It is imperative that the Integrated In ator System be the only in ator used with this BC Never dive with the BC if the in ator does not function properly or if it has been tampered with modi ed or replaced with an in ator airway assembly or shoulder dump of a manufacturer other than XS Scuba Rear Dump Valve This valve can be used to dump air by pulling on the ball and cord This Rear Dump Valve works best while you are in a heads down position or in a face down swimming position Primary Adjustment Points Shoulder Straps The shoulder straps of your BC are connected with side squeeze fasteners and can be easily adjusted by pulling upward on the buckle to loosen or downward on the D ring at the end of the strap to tighten Cummerbund Waistband The cummerbund is designed to provide a wide range of adjustment to hold your BC snug and secure below your rib cage and above your hips All XS Scuba cummerbunds feature a high quality Velcro touch fastener and
5. can be adjusted for length at the backpack Some models feature an elastic stretch cummerbund that can compensate for the contraction of your wetsuit at depth To fasten the cummerbund simply pull the left side containing the loop Velcro snug across your waist and then pull the right side snug over it Finally press rmly down to fasten the hook Velcro 8 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc Cylinder Band with Buckle This mechanism attaches your BC to your cylinder so that it is securely held at the desired height without slipping Some models are equipped with the exclusive Micro Pac and two cylinder bands for extra support The nylon webbing should already be woven through the buckle s but instructions for re weaving are provided in the following section titled Preparation amp Setup Tank Locator Strap To ensure that your BC is set at the correct height on the cylinder simply loop this strap over the cylinder valve and adjust it to raise or lower the BC Then fasten the cylinder band s Sternum Strap Most models are equipped with this feature or it can be purchased separately as an accessory option Using two dimes you can disassemble the post pin on the female buckle to reverse the strap s direction or remove it altogether Integrated Weight Systems Some XS Scuba BC models are equipped with built in compartments and pockets to hold X Lock Integrated Weight System and trim weights Either soft wei
6. feet rst head rst maintaining neutral buoyancy underwater or controlling your ascent To release air as effectively as possible remember to utilize the valve that is at the highest point on the BC and nearest to the surface depending on your position in the water WARNING Whenever you ascend whether intentionally or accidentally you must simultaneously vent air from the BC as needed to maintain buoyancy control If air is allowed to expand inside the BC unchecked you may experience a rapid uncontrolled ascent which could lead to serious injury or death due to arterial gas embolism decompression sickness or drowning To regain buoyancy control during an uncontrolled ascent you must dump air from the BC as quickly as possible until you have stopped ascending Venting With the Oral In ator Air can be vented through the in ator by holding the in ator above your head and depressing the oral in ator button This method is recommended for making an initial feet rst descent but is not as effective while you are in a facedown swimming position BC Owner s Manual 19 XS Scuba Inc NOTE Depressing the oral in ator while the BC is empty may allow water to enter the air cell Venting With the REV Inside the power in ator s corrugated hose is a cable that attaches the power in ator to the rapid exhaust valve at the top of the airway assembly You can thus vent air from the BC by pulling straight down on the
7. installed into the BC XS Scuba strongly recommends that you seek the assistance of a buddy before attempting to don the BC You may otherwise risk injury due to muscle strain or a temporary loss of balance NOTE If the amount of weight being used does not ll the pocket to capacity turn the pocket over to slide the weight as far forward inside the pocket as possible toward the closure ap After the X Lock pocket has been correctly installed a Velcro connection inside the BC compartment will hold the end of the pocket closed to prevent the weight from shifting 14 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc To install either pocket slide the closed end into the opening of the compartment with the band of loop Velcro facing up Guide it rmly inward until the Velcro connection has fully engaged near the end of the compartment Then fold the pocket s retaining ap over the Velcro connection on the outside of the BC and rmly run your hand over the ap Finally secure the release buckle For information about using the X Lock Integrated Weight System and ditching weight refer to the section titled Diving with Your XS Scuba BC Donning the BC CAUTION To avoid possible injury and or damage to your equipment XS Scuba recommends that you should always don your BC with assistance from a buddy 1 Ensure that the side squeeze buckles of both shoulder straps are securely fastened Fully extend each strap to its
8. power in ator The amount of air vented depends on how far open the exhaust valve is i e the distance you pull the inner cable and how long it is open Short pulls vent small amounts of air for minor changes in buoyancy and a long pull will vent the entire BC in a matter of seconds You retain just as much control over your buoyancy using the Rapid Exhaust Valve as with the oral in ator button You also get the bene t of eliminating water entry even if the exhaust valve remains open after release of all the air This valve provides an effective and convenient way to vent air from the BC while you are in either an upright or face down swimming position and is more convenient to use than the oral in ator Rear Dump Valve If your BC has a Rear Dump Valve located on the lower rear portion of the air cell it can be opened manually to quickly dump air by pulling on the ball and cord assembly This valve works best while making a head rst descent or in a face down swimming position CAUTION The proper function of the overpressure relief valve is essential to prevent damage to the BC air cell Unauthorized service or tampering may render this valve inoperable and could cause the air cell to leak or burst This type of damage is not repairable and is not covered under the terms and conditions of the XS Scuba Warranty NOTE Most training agencies recommend that you should descend in an upright feet rst position in order to mai
9. prevent squeeze when your BC is in ated on the surface 6 Fasten the sternum and waist straps if equipped and pull the free ends until they are comfortably snug but not restricting WARNING Be sure to avoid over tightening your BC s adjustments Check to ensure that you can move your arms comfortably and take deep full breaths Over tightening can restrict your respiration and blood circulation which can lead to serious injury or death Pre Dive Inspection Before each use the BC must be visually inspected and tested NEVER dive with a BC that shows any signs of damage to its air cell or valves until it has been serviced by an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer Inspection Checklist 1 Connect the power in ator to a clean air source via the LP quick disconnect hose Depress and release the in ator button intermittently to ensure that the air ow is unobstructed and that the air ow stops completely when the button is released 2 Ensure that the air cell does not contain any water from a previous dive or from internal rinsing An excessive amount of water inside the air cell can reduce the BC s internal air volume and lift capacity 3 Manually operate the lower overpressure valve OPV by pulling on the attached ball and cord to release air from inside the BC and then fully in ate the BC until the shoulder OPV valve opens Examine the operation of the shoulder OPV valve by repeatedly in ating the BC to ensure that it opens to
10. underwater is a practiced skill that must be achieved under the supervision of your diving instructor since it requires the removal of your second stage regulator from your mouth 18 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc Power In ation To connect the LP hose grip the grooved sleeve at the connection tting between your thumb and fore nger and slide the sleeve back Place the tting over the in ator valve QD nipple and rmly push inward while releasing the sleeve Check to ensure that the hose is securely attached To in ate your BC depress the power in ator button DO NOT hold the in ator button depressed continuously underwater as this could cause you to become excessively buoyant Instead depress the button in short bursts until you become neutrally buoyant WARNING Do not rely on the power in ator as the only means for in ating your BC It is important to maintain pro ciency in the skill of orally in ating your BC You may otherwise be unable to achieve positive buoyancy in an emergency situation which could lead to serious injury or death Venting amp Dumping Air Throughout the course of a dive it will be necessary to vent or dump air from the BC using one of the three methods described in the following instructions Each method uses a valve that is in a different location and is designed either to vent air or dump it very quickly The method you should choose will depend on whether you are descending
11. EVERYTHING FOR THE PERFECT DIVE Buoyancy Compensator Owner s Manual 2 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc Warning Disclaimer WARNING This manual provides some basic guidelines for certain buoyancy control techniques using your XS Scuba Buoyancy Compensator BC but it is not a substitute for training from a professional diving instructor If you are unsure how to weight yourself in order to achieve optimum buoyancy underwater and on the surface do not dive with your XS Scuba BC until you have obtained the necessary instruction from your diving instructor or Authorized XS Scuba Dealer Failure to weight yourself properly can create a hazardous condition that could lead to serious injury or death IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS PRIOR TO USING YOUR XS SCUBA BOUYANCY COMPENSATOR De nitions of Warnings Cautions and Notes A WARNING indicates a procedure or situation that if not avoided could result in serious injury or death to the user A CAUTION indicates a situation or technique that could cause damage to the product and could subsequently result in injury to the user A NOTE is used to emphasize important points or reminders WARNING This manual provides essential information for the proper use and care of your XS Scuba Buoyancy Compensator BC XS Scuba BC s are designed with many features that are unique from other manufacturers Therefore it is very important to carefull
12. USTMENTS Before every dive perform a complete pre dive inspection following the instructions provided in this manual Check to ensure that all valves are functioning properly and no signs of damage or leaks are present IF ANY SIGNS OF DAMAGE OR MALFUNCTION ARE FOUND DO NOT DIVE WITH THE BC UNTIL IT HAS RECEIVED SERVICE FROM AN AUTHORIZED XS SCUBA DEALER Before entering the water check to ensure that you can remove and ditch your weight quickly and easily without any obstruction or entanglement with any hoses or accessories IN THE EVENT OF AN OUT OF AIR EMERGENCY OR UNCONTROLLED DESCENT DO NOT HESITATE TO REMOVE AND DITCH WEIGHT DO NOT USE YOUR BC TO LIFT HEAVY OBJECTS TO THE SURFACE Doing so may cause permanent damage to the BC and could easily result in an uncontrolled ascent DO NOT over in ate your BC or rely on using the power in ator to lift yourself toward the surface Control all ascents A RAPID UNCONTROLLED ASCENT MAY CAUSE ARTERIAL GAS EMBOLISM OR DECOMPRESSION SICKNESS AND COULD LEAD TO SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH IN THE EVENT OF AN UNCONTROLLED RAPID ASCENT IT IS IMPORTANT TO IMMEDIATELY VENT AS MUCH AIR AS POSSIBLE FROM THE BC TO SLOW YOUR ASCENT RATE CONTINUE VENTING AIR TO SLOW YOUR ASCENT RATE IF NEUTRAL BUOYANCY CANNOT BE REESTABLISHED DO NOT attempt to modify your XS Scuba BC for use with more than one cylinder Doing so could damage the structural integrity of the BC s backpack and harness sy
13. XS Scuba Inc Safety Tube part no AC190 This high visibility surface signal device can be in ated to a length of 6 and is carried inside a compact 5 x35 nylon mesh bag that can be clipped to your BC or stored in a pocket AirWave Inline Octopus part no RG325 To streamline your system with fewer hoses and keep your octopus where you ll always be able to nd it you ll want the AirWave Inline Octopus a backup second stage regulator that is worn on your BC connected by your power in ator This option is available separately from your Authorized XS Scuba Dealer and can be added to any XS Scuba BC Dealer Inspection amp Service 1 Do not assume that a BC is in good working condition just because it has had little use since its last servicing Prolonged or improper storage can still result in internal corrosion and or deterioration of O ring seals and valve springs as well as air cell seam degradation 2 You should obtain factory authorized service for your BC at least once a year from an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer regardless of the amount of use it has received This service includes a general air leak inspection and complete overhaul of the power in ator and OPV valve s Your BC may require this service more frequently depending on the amount of use and quality of maintenance that it receives 3 If the BC is used for rental or training purposes it will require complete overhaul and service every th
14. ation caused by chemical attack including but not limited to prolonged exposure to chlorine or other pool chemicals 2 This warranty does not extend to damages caused by improper use improper maintenance neglect unauthorized repairs modi cations accidents re or casualty 3 Cosmetic damage such as scratches fraying and nicks are not covered by this warranty 4 This warranty does not extend to equipment used for rental commercial or military purposes What You Need To Do 1 Keep a copy of the original purchase receipt and subsequent inspections with this manual 2 Your XS Scuba BC should be inspected and serviced by an authorized XS Scuba repair facility at least once a year 3 Provide proof of original purchase and annual servicing by an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer in the form of receipts invoices Disclaimers Exclusions This warranty is nontransferable from the original owner No salesperson dealer or representative is authorized to make any modi cation to this warranty It is dangerous for untrained and uncerti ed persons to use the equipment covered by this warranty Therefore use of this equipment by an untrained person renders any and all warranties null and void Use of SCUBA equipment by anyone who is not a trained and certi ed diver or receiving training under BC Owner s Manual 23 XS Scuba Inc the supervision of an instructor could lead to serious injury or death This warranty gives you speci
15. e BC Open the sealed ap and fold it back out of the way While holding the pocket fully open insert the weight and then close the ap When each pocket has been loaded with weight rmly run your hand over the aps to seal the Velcro fastener securely in place When lling the X Lock Integrated Weight System pockets it is important to ll each pocket with the BC Owner s Manual 13 XS Scuba Inc same amount of weight in order to provide optimum balance in the water You may otherwise experience a tendency to roll to one side if one pocket is more heavily loaded than the other X Lock Integrated Weight System Pocket Installation WARNING Before every dive it is important to inspect the condition of all connections between the X Lock Integrated Weight System pockets and the BC to ensure that they are clean and free of any wear or damage that may impair their function Carefully follow the instructions provided below to install the pockets correctly and ensure that all connections are securely sealed Accidental release of the weight pockets may otherwise result in an uncontrolled ascent which could lead to serious injury or death due to embolism or decompression sickness The weight pockets should be installed while the BC is fully de ated either before or after it has been donned It is easier however to install them before donning the BC If the weight pockets are lled to their maximum capacity and
16. e time to acquaint yourself with your BC s features including standard in ation de ation valves and adjustments that can be found on every model of an XS Scuba BC Speci c instructions for using these features will be provided throughout this manual Additional options and special features will be explained in the section titled Optional Accessories amp Special Features Valves Integrated In ator System With this system you have two methods to in ate the BC two methods to de ate the BC and automatic venting of excess pressure Be sure to read and understand these instructions describing how this system operates before attempting to dive with your XS Scuba BC Power In ator This assembly is actually made up of two different valves The oral in ation valve can be used to manually in ate or de ate your BC The power in ation valve is connected directly to your regulator s rst stage and can be used to in ate your BC with the push of a button Overpressure Relief Valve OPV Rapid Exhaust Valve REV The integrated Overpressure Relief Valve OPV vents excess pressure from the BC during ascent or if over pressurized from the power in ator This component of the Integrated In ator System operates automatically so no instructions for its manual use are necessary The Rapid Exhaust Valve REV located within the upper shoulder unit of the integrated in ator is connected to the lower Power In
17. ed reproduced translated or reduced to any electronic medium or machine readable form without prior consent in writing from XS Scuba Inc XS Scuba the XS logo Advantage Nekton Paragon X Lock Weight Release System Micro Pac AirWave Inline are registered and unregistered trademarks of XS Scuba All rights are reserved All other names are trademarks of their respective owners 2005 XS Scuba BC Owner s Manual PN BCM 0305 4 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc General Precautions and Warnings Do not use this Buoyancy Compensator BC if you have not received supervised instruction and certi cation in SCUBA diving and buoyancy control from a recognized training agency USE OF SCUBA EQUIPMENT BY UNCERTIFIED OR UNTRAINED PERSONS IS DANGEROUS AND CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH Before using this BC it is important to completely read and understand all of the instructions provided in this owner s manual any accompanying inserts and labels or markings af xed to the BC IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR DO NOT COMPLETELY UNDERSTAND THESE INSTRUCTIONS CONSULT YOUR AUTHORIZED XS SCUBA DEALER Before diving with this BC in open water it is important to familiarize yourself with it rst in con ned shallow water with the assistance and supervision of an instructor or experienced buddy DO NOT ENTER OPEN WATER UNTIL YOU HAVE WEIGHTED YOURSELF PROPERLY AND HAVE BECOME COMFORTABLE WITH USING ALL OF ITS FEATURES AND ADJ
18. f you can identify your regulator s LP ports follow this procedure 1 To select the best LP port mount the rst stage on a cylinder valve to determine the correct orientation and hose routing 2 Remove the port plug from a low pressure port on the regulator using the appropriate size wrench or key 3 Your BC was shipped with the LP hose connected to the power in ator Remove the in ator hose from the power in ator body by sliding the grooved sleeve back while pulling the tting off the QD nipple 4 Check the male end of the LP hose to ensure the O ring is present and in good condition and screw the threaded end of the hose into the port Tighten the hose to 50 60 inch pounds 7 kg cm with a 9 16 wrench Cylinder Mounting Threading the Cylinder Band amp Buckle NOTE All XS Scuba BC s are shipped with the nylon band pre threaded through the buckle If rethreading is necessary follow these steps BC Owner s Manual 11 XS Scuba Inc 1 Ensure that the metal bale of the buckle is as close to the rear of the BC as possible This provides the greatest range of adjustment 2 With the buckle fully open thread the cylinder band up the middle slot and back down through the slot closest to the metal bale Pull the end to increase the tension in the band 3 Loosely thread the webbing through the open slot in the end of the buckle but do not cinch it tight at this time Attaching the BC to the Cylinder NOTE Some m
19. ght pouches lled with lead shot or solid weight can be used but soft weight is strongly recommended since it will ll the weight compartment to its fullest capacity and provide the maximum comfort If your XS Scuba BC is a weight integrated model it is very important to read the following instructions in order to understand the difference between these two types of weight pockets and how to use them correctly For installation and removal instructions see the following section titled Preparation amp Setup BC Owner s Manual 9 XS Scuba Inc Releasable Trim Weights If your BC is equipped with this feature you will nd two releasable weight compartments located on the backside of either the air cell or the harness on opposite sides These are each designed to hold up to 5 pounds 10 pounds total of weight to supplement and counter balance the weight that you wear on your weight belt or X Lock Integrated Weight System The weight in these pockets can be dumped by grasping the strap on the bottom of the pocket and pulling downward rmly X Lock Integrated Weight System Some XS Scuba models are also equipped with two X Lock weight pockets located inside the front lower portions of the BC These pockets can be easily identi ed by their plastic pull handles that face toward the center of the waistband The X Lock pockets are designed to each hold a maximum weight of 10 lbs for a combined total of
20. itch only half your weight initially and thereby maintain better control of your ascent rate in an emergency In the event of an emergency that requires you to ditch your weight rmly pull the release handle of each weight pocket towards the opposite side of your waist When the pocket is completely disengaged from its compartment hold it out and away from your body before dropping it CAUTION To avoid injuring other divers always look below you before dropping weight WARNING Always ensure that your X Lock Integrated Weight System is not obstructed by any straps lines etc DO NOT add weight to your BC anywhere other than the designated weight compartments since doing so may prevent you from being able to ditch weight in an emergency Failure to ditch weight in an emergency may lead to serious injury or death due to drowning Before diving with a BC that features a X Lock Integrated Weight System it is very important to explain its function and design to your dive buddy Thus will ensure that they are as familiar with it as you are so they can assist you in case of an emergency In ating Your BC Oral In ation To orally in ate your BC hold the oral in ator mouthpiece to your mouth and depress the oral in ator button while exhaling into the mouthpiece Release the button when done or while taking another breath and repeat this procedure until the BC is satisfactorily in ated NOTE Oral in ation of your BC
21. maximum length by pulling up on the tab of the lower slide buckle and then pulling the webbing down until the D ring slides up near the buckle 2 While your dive buddy holds the cylinder supported behind you reach back to place your arms through the shoulder straps 3 While your buddy continues to hold the cylinder fasten the cummerbund snug around your waist not hips The best positioning is between your hips and your rib cage The weight of the cylinder should rest on the lumbar region lower part of your back 4 After your buddy has released the cylinder and the BC feels comfortably supported on your hips and shoulders bend forward at the waist and adjust the shoulder straps to a comfortable length by pulling straight down on the D rings BC Owner s Manual 15 XS Scuba Inc NOTE Remember adjusting the shoulder straps too tightly will transfer the cylinder weight from the hips onto the shoulders and may restrict your arm movement 5 Readjust the cummerbund if necessary so that it is comfortably snug but not restricting with an overlap of at least 3 inches Fasten together the male and female side squeeze buckles of the outer waist strap over the cummerbund NOTE Your BC is equipped with an elastic outer waist strap It can be adjusted inside the BC behind the cummerbund so that it will be snug when fastened This will help your cummerbund to remain snug when your wetsuit becomes compressed at depth and can also help
22. ntain a slower and more controlled descent This is especially true if you experience dif culty equalizing your ears or if you are descending in low visibility conditions Right Shoulder OPV Dump Valve not featured on all models Some models may feature a redundant OPV Dump valve located at the top of the right shoulder A ball and cord assembly extends to the shoulder buckle assembly for quick dumping of air 20 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc Post Dive Care amp Maintenance With proper care your XS Scuba BC will provide many years of reliable service The following preventative maintenance must be performed to extend the life of your BC Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and extreme heat Nylon fabric can quickly fade when exposed to the sun s ultraviolet rays and extreme heat may damage the welded seams of the BC s air cell Avoid repeated or prolonged use in heavily chlorinated water which can cause the BC fabric to discolor and decay prematurely Do not allow the BC to chafe against any sharp objects or rough surfaces that could abrade or puncture the air cell Do not set or drop heavy objects such as block weights on the BC Avoid any contact with oil gasoline aerosols or chemical solvents To preserve the life of the air cell thoroughly rinse it inside and out with fresh water after every day of use following these steps 1 Pressurize the power in ator with low pressure air via
23. odels are equipped with the Micro Pac and two cylinder band assemblies 1 First wet the cylinder band s and then t the BC over the cylinder Loop the tank locator strap over the cylinder valve and adjust it as needed to hold the BC at the desired height and position 2 While holding the cylinder secure pull the free end of the cylinder band until there is a very tight t between the pack and the cylinder 3 Close the buckle halfway to hold the cylinder band taut and thread the end of the band through the open slot in the end of the buckle 4 Pull the cam buckle closed so that it snaps down against the cylinder Fasten the end of the webbing securely over the loop Velcro on the cylinder band 5 Test the tightness by vigorously pulling and shaking the BC by the shoulder straps WARNING The cylinder band may initially stretch after it becomes wet Always wet the band prior to attaching your BC to the cylinder and apply enough tension to ensure that the cylinder is held completely secure Test this connection before every dive If the cylinder is allowed to slip free from the BC while you are diving you could become separated from your air supply which could result in serious injury or death 12 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc Integrated Weight System Releasable Trim Weights To install weight in each compartment unfasten the Velcro to open each ap Insert the desired weight and refasten the Velcro ap I
24. ree to six months Chlorinated swimming pool water is an especially damaging environment for SCUBA equipment due to the high level of chlorine and pH balance chemicals which cause certain parts to rapidly deteriorate 4 DO NOT attempt to perform any disassembly or service of your BC Doing so may cause the BC to malfunction and will render the XS Scuba Warranty null and void All service must be performed by an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer HAVE YOUR BC SERVICED AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR FROM AN AUTHORIZED XS SCUBA DEALER YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY AND THE MECHANICAL INTEGRITY OF YOUR BC MAY DEPEND ON IT 22 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc Limited Two Year Warranty XS Scuba Inc warrants to the original owner this product to be free of defects in materials and or workmanship for a period of two years from date of original purchase Warranty applies only under normal sport and skin diving use and with proper care and maintenance This warranty is non transferable and limited to repair or replacement at the discretion of XS Scuba BC must be returned with proof of purchase What Is Covered All non wearing valve parts and the welded seams of the BC air cell are covered under this warranty Should any part of your XS Scuba BC be found defective XS Scuba at its discretion will repair or replace the component at no charge to you What Is Not Covered 1 This warranty does not extend to abrasion punctures or tears of the air cell or seam separ
25. relieve excess pressure yet close immediately afterward to allow the air cell to remain fully in ated 16 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc 4 Check the function of the oral in ator button rapid exhaust valve REV and OPV to ensure a rapid and unobstructed exhaust from each valve Fully in ate the BC once again and disconnect the Power In ator to listen for any leakage CAUTION If any leakage can be heard or if the air cell begins to de ate within 5 10 minutes DO NOT attempt to use the BC until it has received service from an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer 5 Make a nal check of the cylinder band s tension to ensure that it is as tight as possible and the cylinder is securely held without any noticeable slippage Retighten if necessary 6 Before entering the water check the trim weight compartments to ensure they are closed and the X Lock Integrated Weight System pockets to ensure that they are correctly installed into to the BC Refer to X Lock Weight System Pocket Installation for details WARNING The X Lock Integrated Weight System pockets may fall out unexpectedly if the buckle connections are not securely fastened Involuntary release of both weight pockets can cause a sudden increase in buoyancy and rapid ascent and could lead to serious injury or death due to arterial gas embolism or decompression sickness Diving With Your XS Scuba BC Rules For Personal Weighting Before diving with your ne
26. rts your head out of the water on the surface to prevent drowning The design characteristics and intended function of a PFD are therefore very different from those of a BC since a PFD is speci cally designed to function on the surface and a BC is primarily designed to function underwater It is important to remember that other equipment you wear in addition to your BC including your cylinder exposure suit or weight system will also affect your position in the water An empty cylinder for instance can create counter buoyancy that could roll you into a face down position if you were to lose consciousness For this reason XS Scuba recommends that you always dive with a buddy and remain close enough to them to be able to render assistance to each other in the event of an emergency Do not depend on your BC exposure suit or any other equipment to hold your face above the surface in the event that you are rendered unconscious in the water while diving 6 BC Owner s Manual XS Scuba Inc Standard Features WARNING A Buoyancy Compensator BC is NOT a life jacket It is not designed to provide face up otation in all situations and it does not meet U S Coast Guard regulations for a life preserver or personal otation device PFD If you become unconscious in the water without a buddy present to immediately assist you may suffer serious injury or death from drowning Overview of Standard Features amp Adjustments Please take th
27. stem and could lead to its failure underwater DO NOT INHALE FROM YOUR ORAL INFLATOR The BC air cell may contain harmful contaminants or gasses which could cause suffocation serious injury and infection of the lungs It is important to obtain factory prescribed service for this BC from an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer at least once each year or according to the same scheduled intervals for your regulator Annual service consists of a complete overhaul of the power in ator and a general air leak inspection of the air cell and valve connections Disassembly repair or lubrication must only be performed by persons who are factory trained and authorized by XS Scuba UNAUTHORIZED SERVICE WILL RENDER THE WARRANTY NULL AND VOID AND COULD CAUSE THE BC TO MALFUNCTION BC Owner s Manual 5 XS Scuba Inc Introduction Thank you for choosing XS Scuba Your new BC has been designed manufactured and individually tested to ensure that it consistently meets the highest performance and safety standards possible This Owner s Manual describes the unique functions and features of XS Scuba s BC equipment and various optional accessories By following the instructions in this manual you will understand how your BC works how to make best use of its features and how to ensure that it lasts a long time It is very important to take the time to read the instructions provided in this manual If you have any questions please consult your Authori
28. t is important to remember at all times that weight installed in these compartments MAY NOT be easily released during an emergency situation Before diving with trim weight installed in your BC it is extremely important to check your buoyancy in shallow water while wearing the BC attached to a fully charged cylinder While standing in chest deep water completely de ate the BC and verify that you can easily achieve positive buoyancy by ditching your X Lock Integrated Weight System pockets For more information about weighting and performing a buoyancy check refer to the section titled Diving with Your XS Scuba BC WARNING The trim weight compartments should only be loaded with weight that supplements the releasable weight carried on your weight belt or your BC s X Lock Integrated Weight System pockets Do not install weight into the trim weight compartments unless you are certain you can achieve positive buoyancy at depth by ditching your releasable weight while your BC is completely de ated You may otherwise experience dif culty ascending to the surface in an emergency situation which could lead to serious injury or death due to drowning X Lock Integrated Weight System Filling the Weight Pockets To ll the X Lock Integrated Weight System pockets with weight it will be necessary to rst remove each one from its respective compartment by rmly pulling the release handle straight out toward the opposite side of th
29. the LP hose 2 Using a garden hose direct water through the oral in ator to ush the interior of the air cell and then thoroughly rinse the exterior of the BC Before rinsing ensure that the power in ator is pressurized with air This will prevent debris and contaminants from entering the in ator valve if the in ator button is accidentally depressed 3 Completely drain the air cell of water through the lower OPV dump valve by pulling the ball cord assembly 4 Fully in ate the BC and allow it to dry inside and out Then store it partially in ated away from direct sunlight and in a clean dry area Do not store the BC in an enclosed space such as a car trunk where it may be exposed to temperatures below 0 F 18 C or above 120 F 49 C 5 To avoid stress on the air cell or harness assembly remove all weight from the trim weight and X Lock releasable compartments before storing the BC Soft weights especially can discolor the BC over time CAUTION DO NOT attempt to perform any disassembly or service of your XS Scuba BC Service requiring disassembly must only be performed by a factory trained XS Scuba technician To obtain any service or repair it is important to bring your BC to an Authorized XS Scuba Dealer Optional Accessories amp Special Features You can purchase the following accessories for your new BC from your Authorized XS Scuba Dealer BC Owner s Manual 21
30. w XS Scuba BC it is important to establish the correct amount of weight you will need to wear to achieve neutral buoyancy without being too heavy negatively buoyant or light positively buoyant While following the procedures taught in an open water training course it is important to observe some basic rules for properly weighting yourself 1 Be aware of the factors that can cause your personal buoyancy to change including personal weight loss or gain the type and thickness of the exposure suit you wear and the buoyancy characteristics of your cylinder when it is full and empty 2 Weight yourself in chest deep water while wearing all your equipment including your exposure suit and BC and with the cylinder you will be using while it contains no more than 500 psi 3 Experiment with different amounts of weight until you are able to oat at eye level on the surface while holding your breath and slowly begin to sink as you exhale 4 Conduct a personal buoyancy check whenever your body weight has changed BC Owner s Manual 17 XS Scuba Inc or if you use a different cylinder BC or exposure suit Diving With an X Lock Integrated Weight System It is important to remember that the X Lock Integrated Weight System pockets are connected to the BC independently of each other unlike a weight belt that has only one release mechanism and must be released accordingly This feature provides you with the advantage of being able to d
31. y read the instructions provided in this manual in order to understand how to correctly use your BC Improper use of your BC can result in serious injury or death BC Owner s Manual 3 XS Scuba Inc Table of Contents GENERAL WARNINGS amp PRECAUTIONS 4 INTRODUCTION 5 INTENDED USE amp FUNCTION 5 OVERVIEW OF STANDARD FEATURES 6 PREPARATION amp SETUP 10 INTEGRATED WEIGHT SYSTEMS 12 X LOCK WEIGHT POCKET SYSTEM INSTALLATION 13 PRE DIVE INSPECTION 15 DIVING WITH YOUR XS SCUBA BC 16 POST DIVE CARE amp MAINTENANCE 20 OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES amp SPECIAL FEATURES 20 DEALER INSPECTION amp SERVICE 21 WARRANTY 22 DEALER INSPECTION amp SERVICE RECORD 23 This owner s manual is copyrighted all rights reserved It may not in whole or in part be copied photocopi
32. zed XS Scuba Dealer Intended Use amp Function of Your BC The main purpose for wearing a Buoyancy Compensator is to achieve and maintain neutral buoyancy at all times while you are underwater regardless of changes in depth or cylinder pressure This allows you to be much more relaxed while you dive and safer since you won t need to struggle against the forces of positive and negative buoyancy Modern jacket and back in ation style BC s provide the most effective and streamlined buoyancy control since they are speci cally designed to support the diver in a comfortably balanced face down position while swimming underwater Stress and exertion can now be minimized if not eliminated altogether Since the introduction of the jacket style and back in ation designs the modern BC has evolved into a consolidated harness and pack system that carries the cylinder and serves as a xture point for rst stage regulators instrumentation and accessories For even greater convenience and comfort many models are now available with integrated weight systems that can supplement or replace the weight belt Your BC can also provide you with non emergency otation to help you rest on the surface but you should never rely on it to function as a life preserver or personal otation device PFD In order to meet approval by U S Coast Guard regulations a PFD must be designed so that it automatically rights you to a face up position and suppo
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