A lot of people do not realize that you don't just put silicone grease on an O-ring and be done with it. If the grease remains on the O-ring, it will attract dirt and sand particles, which will wear the rubber or silicone rubber of the O-ring.
The way to lubricate an O-ring is to take it off (I use a nut-meat remover, or use something that can get under the O-ring but is not sharp), roll it off the hose, and inspect it. If it has any cracks, or is gummy, or leaves a discoloration on your fingers, it should be replaced. If not, use an approved silicone grease (one that's approved for eating, basically), and apply a dab to the O-ring. Then wipe it off with a clean cloth, or cleaning paper, so that no residue is showing. Finally, replace it onto the hose. Do not leave any grease showing on the equipment, for the above-mentioned reason.
This procedure alse works very well for lubricating the O-rings of an underwater camera or camera case, such as the Nikonos.
SeaRat
The way to lubricate an O-ring is to take it off (I use a nut-meat remover, or use something that can get under the O-ring but is not sharp), roll it off the hose, and inspect it. If it has any cracks, or is gummy, or leaves a discoloration on your fingers, it should be replaced. If not, use an approved silicone grease (one that's approved for eating, basically), and apply a dab to the O-ring. Then wipe it off with a clean cloth, or cleaning paper, so that no residue is showing. Finally, replace it onto the hose. Do not leave any grease showing on the equipment, for the above-mentioned reason.
This procedure alse works very well for lubricating the O-rings of an underwater camera or camera case, such as the Nikonos.
SeaRat
