Naturally, the better something is taken care of the longer it will last. Even though Ultralight products are virtually indestructible, treating them with respect will keep them in good working order. After every dive, the best thing to do is thoroughly rinse everything in freshwater. If this is not possible, keep the equipment wet by placing a wet towel over it and refrain from drying it. You don’t want saltwater drying on your gear, forming salt crystals that can cut and scratch O-rings, especially those you cannot service yourself. You can wash your Ultralight gear in hot, soapy water to remove the grit and grime that builds up once you get home.
Most of the inquiries we get about maintenance are about how to clean the fuzzy salt build-up on parts such as clamps. To start, if possible, take as much of the part apart as you can by removing all stainless steel nuts, bolts, and screws. Once apart, soak everything in a 50/50 water and vinegar solution for 15-20 minutes. Use a soft bristle brush like a toothbrush to clean the parts. Don’t forget to clean the inside of the T-knobs on the clamps. Sometimes, it is necessary to repeat the process till everything is cleaned. When done, dry and put back together. For the clamps, add a small dab of silicone grease to the threads at the end of the bolt where the T-knob will be screwed on. Once finished, they will be ready for your next trip.
Whenever you have two dissimilar metals in contact, you will have electrolysis. This is what happens in the case of aluminum and stainless steel. The aluminum becomes oxidized, and the nuts and bolts tend to freeze, making it difficult or impossible to remove them. Sometimes wrapping the threads of screws and bolts with Teflon plumber’s tape (found at your local hardware store), reduces electrolysis and removal of the screws, nuts, and bolts is much easier. If you are looking at the thread end, make a couple of turns with the Teflon tape in a clockwise direction while stretching it slightly.
The O-rings in the balls of the adapters will last one to two years if not left out in the hot sun all the time. They will crack, but this will not affect the clamp's clamping ability. They should be changed when they are cracked, hardened, or the arms do not seem to be holding as well as when new. It is easy to forget about the O-rings, so we recommend replacing them every two years.
They can be difficult to remove and are best removed without sharp objects. The best way is to squeeze with thumb and forefinger, pushing together while simultaneously trying to move it to the side. This should give you a small amount of the O-ring to roll over the ball. To install the O-ring, stretch it over the ball and into the groove.
The ball O-rings are Buna, Size 2-209N70, and the O-rings for the base adapters are Buna, size 2-113N50. If you need replacements, we offer packages of 12 and 25 that can be ordered directly from us.
Ultralight Camera Solutions is a leading provider of high-quality underwater photography equipment, catering to professionals and enthusiasts alike. Our products are all manufactured, assembled, and packaged in the US with US materials and have a lifetime warranty.
