The provided document outlines the maintenance procedure for the SCUBAPRO MK11 1st Stage regulator, a critical component in a diver's life support system. This manual is specifically intended for appointed Scubapro technicians who have completed a comprehensive equipment repair course, emphasizing that it does not replace the formal technical training provided by SCUBAPRO/UWATEC staff.
The SCUBAPRO MK11 1st Stage regulator is designed to reduce the high pressure from a scuba tank to an intermediate pressure, typically between 9 and 10 bars (approximately 130-145 psi), which is then supplied to the second stage regulator and other accessories like an octopus or pressure gauge. This pressure reduction is crucial for safe and comfortable breathing underwater. The regulator features a balanced diaphragm design, which contributes to consistent performance regardless of tank pressure and depth. Its robust construction, often involving chrome plating, ensures durability and resistance to corrosion in marine environments. The MK11 is known for its compact size and lightweight design, making it a popular choice for various diving configurations.
Technical Specifications (Inferred from the manual's parts list and procedures):
- Pressure Type: Balanced Diaphragm 1st Stage.
- Intermediate Pressure: Adjustable, typically set between 9 and 10 bars (130-145 psi).
- HP Ports: Multiple, for connecting pressure gauges and other high-pressure accessories.
- LP Ports: Multiple, for connecting second stages, octopuses, and BCD inflators.
- Connection Type: Available in both INT (Yoke) and DIN versions, accommodating different tank valve standards.
- Materials: Likely marine-grade brass with chrome plating for corrosion resistance. Internal components include various O-rings, springs, and a diaphragm.
- Filter: Integrated filter to prevent debris from entering the regulator.
- Torque Specifications: Specific torque values are provided for critical components during assembly, such as the yoke retainer (30 Newton meters) and filter retainer (4 Newton meters), highlighting the precision required for proper function and safety.
- O-rings: Numerous O-rings are used throughout the regulator to ensure airtight seals, with specific part numbers mentioned (e.g., 01.050.138, 01.050.117, 01.050.145).
- Repair Kit: A dedicated repair kit (P/N 10.117.040) is available for annual service, containing essential replacement parts like the filter, HP seat, and various O-rings.
Usage Features:
The MK11 1st Stage is designed for ease of use and reliability.
- Tank Connection: It can be connected to a scuba tank via either an INT (yoke) or DIN fitting, depending on the specific model. The INT version involves a yoke screw and retainer, while the DIN version uses a knob retainer.
- Accessory Ports: Multiple high-pressure (HP) and low-pressure (LP) ports allow for the connection of various diving accessories, such as a primary second stage, an octopus (alternate air source), a submersible pressure gauge (SPG), and a BCD inflator hose. The manual specifically advises connecting the second stage and octopus to the HI FLOW ports for optimal performance.
- Pressure Control: The regulator automatically reduces tank pressure to a consistent intermediate pressure, ensuring a steady air supply to the diver's second stage.
- Diaphragm Design: The balanced diaphragm design provides consistent performance across a wide range of tank pressures and depths, making breathing easier and more comfortable.
Maintenance Features:
The manual provides a detailed, step-by-step guide for disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling the MK11 1st Stage, along with crucial adjustment procedures.
- Disassembly: The process involves carefully unscrewing hoses, removing plugs, extracting O-rings, and disassembling the yoke/DIN assembly, spring adjustment screw, diaphragm retainer, balance chamber, HP poppet, and orifice. Specialized tools are required for these steps, including a universal tool, various sockets, an O-ring extractor, a field handle tool, and Allen keys.
- Parts Cleaning: After disassembly, all parts must be thoroughly cleaned. The manual refers to a separate "parts cleaning procedure," indicating the importance of proper cleaning to remove salt, debris, and other contaminants that can affect performance.
- Assembly: Reassembly requires meticulous attention to detail, including proper lubrication of O-rings and threads, correct placement of springs and washers, and adherence to specific torque values for critical components. The manual highlights the importance of using a torque wrench to prevent over-tightening, which can lead to permanent deformation or rupture of parts. For instance, the yoke retainer requires 30 Newton meters, and the filter retainer needs 4 Newton meters.
- Replacement Parts: During annual service, specific parts are mandated for replacement, including the filter, filter retaining clip (INT version), HP seat, poppet balancing O-ring, and balance chamber O-ring, or the complete repair kit. This ensures optimal performance and safety.
- Leak Testing: After assembly, a critical step is to check for leaks. The manual describes a method to check the seal between the HP seat and orifice by pushing the tool against the orifice while blowing into the body.
- Interstage Pressure Adjustment: This is a crucial maintenance step to ensure the regulator delivers the correct intermediate pressure.
- Tools: A precise interstage pressure gauge is essential, connected to one of the LP ports or the regulator hose. The manual explicitly warns against using the smaller, less precise gauge found on the adjustment tool.
- Procedure: The 1st stage is connected to a full tank, and the tank valve is slowly opened. The regulator is cycled multiple times (purging the 2nd stage) to allow internal parts to settle.
- Adjustment: If the interstage pressure is outside the 9-10 bar range, a 6 mm Allen key is used to adjust the spring adjustment screw. Clockwise rotation increases pressure, while counter-clockwise rotation decreases it. After each adjustment, the regulator must be cycled again, and the pressure re-checked.
- Troubleshooting: If a stable interstage pressure cannot be achieved, the diaphragm should be changed, as a distorted diaphragm is a common cause of poor interstage pressure lock. The manual also notes that a bad interstage pressure lock is unlikely to stem from the HP orifice and seat if the leak test was successful.
- Final Checks: After adjustment, the tank valve is closed, the 1st stage is removed, and the rubber bumpers and inlet protector are replaced.
The emphasis throughout the manual on using specific tools, adhering to torque specifications, and following a precise adjustment procedure underscores the critical role of proper maintenance in ensuring the safety and performance of the SCUBAPRO MK11 1st Stage regulator. The warnings about over-torquing and the importance of using a precise pressure gauge highlight the potential dangers of improper servicing.
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