O- ring issues

[islandscribe]

Hello
Im currently using a DX 1G with double YS 27 strobes - after a years worth of use and over 150 plus dives and 1000's of pics Im happy with the camera setup. The problem Im having is with the O-rings,after each dive I remove my O-rings run them between my fingers to make sure there is no debris,ect on them then run them thru my fingers again with a lite coat of silicon grease.I also make sure there is no debris in the seats of the o-rings on the camera and strobes. After a month or so the O-rings become extended and too loose in the seats especially on the strobes-meaning I have to change them-the strobes will not "click" shut as they should due to slack in the o-rings
In a year I have gone thru 4 camera o-rings and as many for the strobes
Am I doing something wrong here?
Is there anyone out there having the same problems?

 

[fdog]

You're using the wrong lube. Try using lube made specifically by the manufacturer for those particular o-rings.

For example, colored o-rings are typically silicone; using silicone lube causes the o-rings to swell and generally behave as you describe. At the worst they degrade and become sticky. The lube used for silicone o-rings is usually a fluorosilicone compound such as Molykote FS1292 (although I am having good luck so far with another fluorinated lube, Christolube MCG 111).

Silicone lube is best reserved for Nitrile (Buna-N) orings, which are black.


All the best, James

 

[islandscribe]

You're using the wrong lube. Try using lube made specifically by the manufacturer for those particular o-rings.

For example, colored o-rings are typically silicone; using silicone lube causes the o-rings to swell and generally behave as you describe. At the worst they degrade and become sticky. The lube used for silicone o-rings is usually a fluorosilicone compound such as Molykote FS1292 (although I am having good luck so far with another fluorinated lube, Christolube MCG 111).

Silicone lube is best reserved for Nitrile (Buna-N) orings, which are black.


All the best, James

Thank-you for the advice - Im switching lubes as of now
When in Tahiti give me a call -I owe you a dive

 

[SEA&SEA]

HI islandscribe-
fdog is correct, the SEA&SEA blue o-rings should only be lubricated with the SEA&SEA yellow tube/blue cap o-ring lube as it is the correct compound. Also, take care when removing and handling the o-rings not to stretch or pull them apart as they will become elongated and lose their form. A basic o-ring maintenance page is available HERE

 

[hammerhead man]

I also have the DX-1G and since it comes with the Lithium Ion battery I never have to open the case until the end of the dive day since there is plenty of power to take pics for two or three dives. I also do not remove the O-ring after every dive day but do check to make sure there is no hairs of particles the would create a leak. I don't know if I'm correct, but my philosophy is that the more you remove the O-ring the greater chance of a leak. Since the grease does not create the waterproof seal there is no need to grease the o-rings daily.

I do replace my o-rings at least once every year whether they need it or not just to be on the safe side.

Just my thoughts.

Regards,

Bill