Owner`s manual

O ptima FX Owner’s Manual

Ch. 2 Pg. 1

Chapter 2

Component Description

Mouthpiece

The DSV on the O2ptima, is a low profile, low volume design to

minimize dead-air spaces and resistance in the water. The DSV

contains no O-Rings and depends on good lubrication and proper

machining for a water-tight seal. This design has an advantage in

that there can be no sudden gas loss due to a failed O-Ring but

under normal conditions MAY leak gas slightly while in air. This

should not be considered a failure, but substantial leaks must be

corrected. The DSV has one “mushroom”(one-way) valve located

at each end of the tube to insure directional gas flow through the loop. The normal flow is

“clock-wise”, with the inhalation coming from the diver’s left side and exhaling to the diver’s

right side. Part of the pre-dive equipment check is checking the direction of gas flow and the

proper operation of the non-return valves prior to using the rebreather.

Routine maintenance needs to be performed on the DSV to insure proper functionality. Periodic

lubrication of the body and center (inner) tube is necessary to maintain loop integrity. The

replacement of the “flapper” on each non-return valve body should be performed yearly or

whenever directional integrity is compromised.

Anytime the DSV is not in the diver’s mouth, it should be in the closed position. ALWAYS

close the DSV prior to removing. Failure to close the loop while in the water will allow water

entry and loss of buoyancy. A common source for small quantities of water entering the loop is

from the diver’s failure to keep a good seal on the mouthpiece. When re-inserting into the

mouth, exhale to remove the water through the vent and rotate the lever to open position.

Opening and closing the valve is accomplished by rotating the lever 90 degrees, turning

downward closes the loop while turning upward to the level position opens the loop.

Breathing Hoses and Connectors

The breathing hoses used on the O2ptima

are very flexible and allow easy movement

and comfort while breathing on the loop.

All hose ends are fitted with color coded

connectors and unique threads to prevent

incorrect orientation of the loop. The hose

fittings on the inhalation side of the loop, are left-handed fittings, tighten counter-clockwise and