Inflatable PFD Maintenance This page is provided by the Cold Lake Sailing Club and is solely for information, the Club is not responsible for accuracy. ALWAYS REFER TO YOUR OWNERS MANUAL. Annual Maintenance At the start of the season, check PFD components for the following: 1. Dirt and Damage: Check all components for dirt and corrosion, Clean or replace. 2. Rips, tears or holes: Inspect to make sure there are none, and check that all seams are securely sewn and hardware are still strong. 3. Oral inflation valve: Test by fully inflating the PFD and hold the valve under water. If bubbles appear, deflate and re-inflate to test again. Should the leak persist, take your PFD to your PFD dealer for servicing. If the PFD has not undergone a leak test within three months, do so now. (see “Every Three Months”) 4. Green for go indicator: If your model has a service indicator, make sure it is showing green (which means the cylinder and/or arming mechanism are charged). In automatic models, remove and check that the C02 cylinder and/or bayonet assembly has been pierced. Ensure the O-ring is in place and the sensor rings is intact on the bayonet. If necessary replace. 5. Re-assemble inflation system parts and re-pack PFD as per owner manual instructions. Every Three Months 1. Air bag integrity: To make sure there are no leaks, every three months inflate the PFD using the oral inflation tube and leave inflated. Let stand for 3 hours if a leak detected, carry out annual maintenance ( Oral inflation valve test) . Should the leak persist, take your PFD to your PFD dealer for servicing. 2. Deflate: To deflate, reverse the oral-inflation tube dust cap and insert it in the valve or depress the valve with your fingertips. The dust cap will not lock in the deflate position so it is necessary to hold it in place. Gently squeeze the PFD until all air or gas has been expelled. Replace the inflation tube dust cap. Re-pack PFD as per owner manual instructions. After each time it is worn 1. Green for go indicator: If your model has a service indicator, make sure it is showing GREEN (which means the cylinder and/or arming mechanism are charged). If it is showing RED, the mechanism has been fired or in incorrectly fitted. See your manufacturer’s re-arming instructions for your PFD. 2. Visual inspection: Inspect for and corrosion damage and make sure there are no rips, tears or holes. Check that seams are securely sewn and fabric, straps and hardware are still strong. 3. Velcro: Make sure all Velcro fasteners are securely fastened. 4. Pull-Tab: Ensure the pull-tab lanyard is hanging on the outside of the vest. Cleaning and Storage of inflatable PFD’s 1. To clean your inflatable PFD, remove the CO2 cylinder/bayonet assembly (and cap and bobbin if fitted). Hand wash or sponge down the vest in warm, soapy water and rinse with clean water. Hang to dry on a plastic coat hanger. When dry, be sure to replace the CO2 cylinder/assembly (and cap and bobbin if fitted) and re-pack according to your owners manual. Always store your inflatable PFD in a warn, place out of direct sunlight. Reference: Mustang Survival manuals |