Maintenance Of The Zipper; Latex Wrist & Neck Seals; Trimming The Seals To Fit; Storage & Maintenance - Scubapro DRYSUIT Manual Del Usuario

3.1

Maintenance of the Zipper

The larger teeth visible on the outside of the zipper are actually just clamps that secure the
smaller teeth visible in the inside surface of the zipper in place. It is these smaller teeth that
interlock and create firm even pressure on the polymer zipper tape, creating the seal. These
teeth, the zipper tape and the outer clamps must be kept clean and lubricated to operate
properly and give long product life.
4. LATEX WRIST & NECK SEALS
Some models of SCUBAPRO drysuits are fitted with flexible latex neck and wrist seals for
watertight integrity.
4.1

Trimming the Seals to Fit

The latex seals have concentric raised ridges functioning as cutting guides to assist you to
accurately trim the seals to fit. The seals are slightly tapered so they get larger when trimmed.
Using a sharp pair of scissors, trim one ring off at a time until the seal is comfortable but still
snug on your neck and wrists. Use care and precision with sharp scissors when trimming
ridges. Leave a smooth surface, as ragged edges can allow tears to form, which will require
replacement of the seal.
! CAUTION
Do not trim too much, or the seals become too loose and may leak. Make sure you
cut the seals cleanly and leave no nicks that can develop into a tear.
! WARNING
BLOOD FLOW CAN BE RESTRICTED BY SEALS THAT ARE TOO TIGHT, WHICH CAN
ULTIMATELY LEAD TO INJURY OR DEATH. DO NOT WEAR THE SEALS TOO TIGHT.
4.2 Storage & Maintenance
Store the drysuit so the seals are dry, cool (below 25 degrees C) and out of direct sunlight.
Ultra-Violet light will degrade the latex over time. If the seals have been exposed to cold
temperatures, they will become stiff and lose their flexibility. This condition is not permanent
and can be resolved by a brief immersion in warm water. Before storing the suit for any
length of time, dust the seals inside and out with pure talc (supplied in the repair kit) as a
preservative. Do not use perfumed cosmetic talc, as it contains oils which can damage
the latex. Do not use oils or lotion on the seals. Avoid contact with copper.
4.3

Possible Allergy Risk

A small percentage of people have an allergic reaction to natural latex, the material from
which the neck & wrist seals of some models are manufactured. This allergy can range from
mild to severe skin rash and itching. It is the responsibility of the user to pre-determine if he
or she has Latex allergy, or to recognize it during use, and discontinue use of the suit until
the problem can be rectified. This usually means removing the latex seals, and installing new
seals made of alternative materials.
4.4

What is Latex Allergy?

Latex allergy is a reaction to certain proteins in latex rubber. The amount of latex exposure
needed to produce sensitization or an allergic reaction is unknown. Increasing the exposure
to latex proteins increases the risk of developing allergic symptoms. In sensitized persons,
symptoms usually begin within minutes of exposure; but they can occur hours later and can
be quite varied. Mild reactions to latex involve skin redness, rash, hives, or itching. More
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