Kirby Morgan M-48 SuperMask User manual

WARRANTY INFORMATION
KirbyMorganDiveSystems,Inc.(KMDSI)warrantseverynewM-48mask
tobefreefromdefectsinmaterialand workmanshipforaperiodofone year
from the date of purchase by the original purchaser.
Should any part be defective, please contact Kirby Morgan Dive Systems
directly. You must have a returned merchandise authorization (RMA)
numberissuedtoyoufromtheSalesdepartment.Uponapproval, returnthe
defectivepart,freightprepaid,toKirbyMorganDiveSystems. Thepartwill
be repaired or replaced at no charge, as deemed necessary.
This warranty becomes null and void if:
1) The Product is not registered with Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc.
within thirty (30) days of original purchase.
2) The Warranty Card is not properly and completely filled out.
3) TheProducthasnotbeenproperlyservicedand/or maintained according
totheKirbyMorganDivesystemsUser’sguide,usingONLYKirbyMorgan
Dive Systems, Inc. genuine replacement parts.
4) Unauthorized modifications have been made to the Product.
4) The Product has been abused or subject to conditions which are unusual
or exceed the Product’s intended service.
It is important for you, the user of this equipment, to understand that
we at Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. consider ourselves to be only a part of
the process of diving equipment design. We welcome and encourage all input
from our customers. The knowledge gained from diving equipment engineers,
diving medical specialists, diving organization administrators and their sup-
porting personnel, along with the divers themselves, has contributed to the cur-
rent state-of-the-art designs in our diving equipment.

Important SuperMask M-48 Product Information
Thank you for purchasing your new Kirby Morgan SuperMask M-48.
A. This lightweight Full Face Mask was purchased either e uipped
with a Diving Systems International (DSI) SuperFlow plastic adjust-
able second stage Scuba Regulator (Part # 305-166) or without a
regulator so that you, the end user can e uip your mask with the
adjustable second stage regulator of your choice. Although the M-48
Scuba Pod (Part # 805-015) was designed to use DSI’s SuperFlow
regulator, providing the user with an efficient, comfortable system,
other adjustable second stage regulators may work well in the Scuba
Pod.
If you are attempting to use another manufacturer’s regulator in your
M-48 Mask, (other than our SuperFlow plastic adjustable second
stage Scuba Regulator) you MUST be aware of the following:
1. Re-read and understand the information in your Users
Guide, beginning on page #16, named “Mounting the
SuperFlow Regulator”. (There is a typo in the Users Guide on
page #5 that states that this information is on page 18.)
2. Be sure that the mouthpiece mounting tube size meets the
correct called out criteria, (as stated on page #16, named
“Mounting the SuperFlow Regulator”) before mounting a
second stage regulator (other than DSI’s SuperFlow plastic
adjustable second stage Scuba Regulator) into your mask.
3. The SuperFlow second stage regulator has a wide range of
adjustment making it ideally suited for full-face mask use in
both scuba or surface supplied diving. Using another

manufacturer’s 2nd stage regulator in the M-48Scuba pod
may change the normal performance characteristics of the
regulator when the mouthpiece is not in the mouth. When
using a full-face mask, some demand regulators may have
a tendency to free flow when the diver is in the horizontal or
face down position.
WARNING
IF OU HAVE AN DOUBTS AS TO WHETHER ANOTHER
MANUFACTURER’S ADJUSTABLE REGULATOR WILL MATE
OR PERFORM CORRECTL WITH OUR M-48 MASK, DO NOT
USE IT UNTIL OU HAVE SPOKEN WITH KMDSI OR OUR
KMDSI DEALER FOR CONFORMIT OF COMPATIBILIT . CALL
OUR DEALER FOR INFORMATION OR ASSISTANCE.
B. Part # 820-105 Pod Catch/Release re uires routine inspection
before and after each dive to insure that the part is in its optimum
working condition. When attaching the Pod Assembly to your Super-
Mask, the Pod Catch/Release should make a snapping sound while
going over each ratchet tooth on the latch catch (P/N 820-045). If
there is no sound or physical contact while going over the first ratchet
tooth on the latch catch, this indicates fatigued material and that the
Pod Catch/Release (Part # 820-105) must be replaced by an autho-
rized KMDSI dealer. Periodic replacement of the Pod Catch/Release
should be done as part of your scheduled maintenance.
Currently we are developing several different pod configurations for
both open circuit and rebreather use. For further information, see the
Fre uently Asked Questions (FAQ) area on our website at:
www.KMDSI.com

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page Section Title
1 Table Of Contents
2 Definition of Signal Words, (Danger, Warnings, Cautions)
4 Features of the M-48 / Receiving The Mask
5 Pod Regulator
6 Head Harness Installation and Removal / Before You Dive
7 Pre-dive Visual Inspection
8 Cleaning the Lens / Defogging / Donning the Mask
10 Hooking the Pod to the Mask
12 Latching the Pod
13 Releasing the Pod / Doffing (Removing) the Mask
14 Diving with a Hood / In-Water Tips
Equalizing/Purging the Mask
15 Post-Dive Procedures / Periodic Maintenance of the
Regulator / Storage of the Mask
16 Mounting the SuperFlow Regulator
18 Installing Communications
19 Installing Communication Port Plug
20 M-48 Accessories
22 Exploded Drawing of the M-48 SuperMask
23 Parts List
M-48 User guide P/N 100-800

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
Definitions of Signal Words
Used in this Guide
STOP Clean this mask using only the procedures described in this User’s Guide.
Never use cleaning solvents or petroleum-based chemicals on this mask.
WARNING: The M-48 mask is not equipped with a one-way valve (non-
return valve). For surface supplied diving, the diver must be properly trained and
equipped. A manifold block with a one-way valve that is securely fastened to a
harness and bailout system should always be used when surface supply diving. DO
NOT connect an umbilical directly to the M-48 pod regulator. This can create a
direct pull on the mask and pod. ALWAYS connect the umbilical to the one-way
valvemountedon the harness andalways securely fasten theumbilical to theharness.
KirbyMorganDive Systems,Inc. shallnot beheld liablefor accidents,
and/or injuries, personal or otherwise, including death, as a result of the use,
by any person or persons, of the M-48 and/or any related equipment and/or
accessories. User assumes all liability and is responsible for reading and
understandingthisUser’sGuide;furthermore,userassumes allresponsibilities
forunderstanding the functionsofthe equipmentfeatured in thisUser’sGuide
beforeattempting touse saidequipment. Obtain acertificationto divethrough
a recognized International training agency before attempting to use the M-48
and/or any related equipment.
STOP
DANGER: This word indicates an immi-
nently hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING: This word indicates a potentially
hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: This word indicates a potentially
hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may
result in a minor or moderate injury. It may also be
used to alert against unsafe practices.
STOP
!

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
CAUTION: Avoidspraying canned siliconespray or other aerosolsprays
on or near the mask or pod. Certain chemicals used in the aerosol propellants can
damage some of the plastic components of the mask and pod. Use a pump bottle
instead.
WARNING: The M-48 full face mask is not intended to be used in wa-
ters containing high concentrations of petroleum or chemical contaminants. Wa-
ters containing high concentrations of petroleum, biological or chemical contami-
nation could cause serious, permanent bodily harm to the user. While the M-48 can
reduce the risk of exposure to certain chemical and biological contamination, it
should not be relied on to keep the user safe. Diving in contaminated water is
extremely hazardous and requires specialized training and equipment.
Using the M-48 full-face mask is very easy, but as with all new equipment,
training and practice is the key to safe diving. The use of SCUBA or surface-
supplieddivingequipment by uncertified or untraineddivers is extremelyhazardous,
and could result in serious injury and/or death. This mask should only be used by
diverswhohave been trained andcertified to dive bycredible training orcertification
organizations. Newly certified divers and divers not experienced in full face mask
divingshould seek trainingfrom acompetent trainingorganization.All users should
practice donning, doffing, Pod removal, and replacement procedures on the surface
in a dry environment before attempting the same procedures in the water. Once the
basic maneuvers have been practiced and the user is comfortable, the user can
move into a calm, shallow body of water (4-10 feet in depth). It is recommended
that persons with previous full-face mask experience make at least one 30 minute
indoctrination dive prior to open-water use.
STOP
!

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
RECEIVING THE MASK
When you first receive your M-48, carefully unpack it and examine it for any
damage.
Be sure to completely fill out the enclosed warranty card and return to Kirby
Morgan Dive Systems. Warranty claims require that a card be on file at Kirby
MorganDiveSystemsnolaterthan30daysafterpurchase.Seepage2forcomplete
details.
It is the goal of Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. to provide the highest quality
diving equipment and service possible.
FEATURES OFTHE M-48
Pod
Mask
Head Harness with
Quick Release System
Nose Pinch
Pocket
Latch Catch
Head Harness
Buckles (4)
Lens / Lens Frame
Upper Lip Seal
Pod Hooking Area
Regulator
Access Ports for
Mounting Accessories
Hook
Mouthpiece
Water Dump
Catch / Release

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
If your M-48 came with a Kirby Morgan SuperFlow Second Stage Demand
Regulator, and User’s Guide (part number 100-133) for the demand regulator,
pleasereadand understand the User’s Guide prior to diving, and retain it for future
reference. The regulator User’s Guide explains the features and functions, as well
asgeneral care andmaintenance.It also includesa partsbreakdown sketch and list.
If your SuperMask came without a second stage regulator, a properly functioning
and certified second stage regulator must be mounted on the pod prior to diving.
WARNING: Though designed to primarily be used with the Kirby
Morgan SuperFlow demand regulator, the M-48 SCUBA pod (part # 805-015) is
also compatible with many other brands of demand regulators. Only use regulators
matching the specifications called out in this guide on page 18. Other demand
regulators may not fit properly, or their performance may be compromised by
attachment to the M-48 Pod.
POD REGULATOR

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
HEAD HARNESS INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL
A complete inspection of the mask and all related gear should be made before
each dive to insure that everything is in proper working order. This should be
done well in advance of the dive. Read and completely understand this Users
Guide and practice the functions of the mask before you dive.
BEFORE YOU DIVE
Removal: Using your thumb, release the
harness adjustment buckle by pulling or
pushing it forward. Carefully, but firmly,
pull the harness strap through the
adjustment buckle.
Open the mating harness adjustment
buckle with your thumb and feed the
harness strap through the adjustment
buckle.
Installation: Orient the harness so that
the quick-release buckle will be
positioned down on the back of the
head, with the smooth side of the
harness facing out.

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
1) Visually inspect the entire exterior and interior of
the Mask and Pod for any type of obvious damage.
2) The Face Seal and Pod should be in good
condition, with no cracks, tears, or punctures.
3) Carefully inspect the Head Harness for signs of
cracking or tearing. The Quick Release system, as
well as the Head Harness Adjustment Buckles,
should be checked for damage and tested for proper
function.
4) Inspect the Face Port. It should be clean and clear.
Anti-fog solutions should be applied prior to use, if
needed.
5) Inspect the Pod components (Hook, Catch /
Release, etc.). All parts should be securely mounted
and undamaged in any way.
6) Check the Regulator Assembly and Mouthpiece to
insure they are correctly installed, working, and
secured tightly on the Pod.
7) Check the Water Dump Valve and Valve Body to
insure that they are correctly mounted and properly
functioning.
8) Check any Communication that may be mounted
to insure proper installation and function.
PRE-DIVE VISUAL INSPECTION OF M-48

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
CLEANING THE LENS
Remove any debris (which can interfere with the diver’s vision) from the
interior of the mask and face port .
Under certain conditions, depending upon water temperature, you may find
itnecessarytoprepthemasklenstokeepitfromfoggingwhilediving.There
are a number of commercial defoggers available for SCUBA diving which
work well. Follow the directions on the label for use. If no commercial
preparation is available, it is possible to use liquid dish washing soap. Use
a small amount of liquid soap on a rag and smear a thin film on the inside of
the lens, and lightly rinse. Do not rinse the entire soap film off, but be sure
lens is clear. Apply the soap just prior to entering the water.
DEFOGGING THE MASK
DONNING THE MASK
Hold the M-48 so that it is hanging
from the Head Harness.
Snap the Quick Release Head Harness
Buckle together and adjust the Head
Harness Straps into the loosest possible
setting.

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
Place the M-48 on your head in a face
down position. Arrange the Head
Harness so that the strap is on top of
your head and the quick release is
against the back of the head and neck.
Tighten the lower Head Harness Strap.
Do not overtighten. The mask should be
snug, but not overly tight.
Tighten the top Head Harness Straps
first, positioning the mask on the face.

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
Catch the hook on the pod on the
hooking area of the pod frame.
First Method:
Align the Pod onto the Pod Frame, and
closethe Catch/Release. Insure thatthe
Pod is snapped onto the second tooth
of the Hook.
There are two ways to hook the
Pod to the mask and two methods
of Latching the Pod to the Mask.
The first method of hooking the
Pod is usually used when not in
the water. The second method can
be of help when in the water.
HOOKING THE POD TO THE MASK
Hook
Pod Catch / Release
Hooking Area
Hook

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
Second Method:
Place the mouthpiece in your mouth
first. Clear the regulator and breathe.
With the Mouthpiece in your mouth,
slide the pod to the left, hooking the
Hook onto the Mask Frame. Snap the
Catch/Release closed. Insure that the
Pod is snapped onto the second tooth
of the Hook.

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
Use your thumb and fingers to snap the Catch/Release closed by pinching the
front part of the Catch / Release and the back part of the Hook together. Insure
that the Pod is snapped onto the second tooth of the Latch Catch.
First Method:
Use your fingers and the palm of your hand to snap the Catch/Release closed by
pinching the front part of the Catch/Release and the back part of the Hook
together. Insure that the Pod is snapped onto the second tooth of the latch catch.
This method can be of help when wearing heavy gloves.
LATCHING THE POD
SecondMethod:
Hook Release Front part of
Catch / Release

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
RELEASING THE POD
Squeeze the front and back part of the
Catch/Release together to release the
Pod from the Mask. Swing the Pod
forward and to the left to release the Pod
Hook from the Mask.
Back Catch / Release
Front
Hook
DOFFING (REMOVING) THE MASK
QuickRelease Method. Squeeze the latch
tabs together on the Quick Release Buckle
to remove the mask from your head.
Themask can alsobe removedbygently
pulling outward on the head harness
adjustment buckles and pushing the
mask forward.
CAUTION: Do not pull
excessively hard on the mask.
!

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
IN WATER TIPS
If the Pod is removed, the second method of Hooking the Pod allows the diver
more time to get sealed.
If you are wearing heavy gloves, the second method of Latching the Pod (p.14)
works best.
To equalize using heavy gloves, use both thumbs, or both index fingers, and place
one on each side of the nose and push together.Another method is to push upward
on the top part of the Pod Frame so that the nose pocket seals under the nose.
To purge the water out of the lens cavity, press on the top of the Lens and exhale
through the nose as traditionally taught, or gently pinch the nose pocket and pull
outward. The water will then exit through the Purge Valve in the Pod.
There are many different types and manufacturers of diving hoods. The thicker,
neoprene-type (wet suit) should be worn on the outside of the face seal so that the
upper lip seal is not held off.The thinner, latex rubber-type (as found on some dry
suits) may be worn under the face seal, but check for comfort and an upper lip
seal.
DIVING WITH A HOOD
EQUALIZING
PURGING THE MASK

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE OF THE REGULATOR
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on periodic maintenance of your
regulator.
POST DIVE PROCEDURES
The mask should be rinsed thoroughly with fresh, clean water and the post dive
procedures followed after each day of diving.
Thoroughly rinse the entire interior and exterior of the mask and pod with warm,
fresh, clean water to remove any salt deposits or other substances. Insure that all
the salt, sand and debris are removed from the regulator as well.
If the mask is equipped with communications, proper manufacturer’s post-dive
procedures should be followed.
Gently blow dry the mask and pod with compressed air, or let air dry completely.
CAUTION: DO NOT dry in direct sunlight or let mask sit in direct sun-
light for long periods of time, as this will degrade the plastic and rubber.
Towel dry the Lens to avoid spotting.
Inspect the mask for damaged, worn or missing parts.
STORAGE OFTHE MASK
The Pod should be stored on the Mask. The Catch / Release should only be snapped
onto the first tooth of the Hook for storage.
The Mask with Pod should be stored at room temperature and out of direct sun
light.
NOTE: For masks with clear mask skirts, a gradual yellowing of the skirt over the
life of the mask is a natural occurrence.
!

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© 2001 Kirby Morgan Dive Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved Document # 010328002
CAUTION: Not all second stage regulators can be safely mountedinthe
pod. The size of the mouthpiece mounting tube and the placement and size of the
exhaust tee can affect the mounting and proper functioning of the mouthpiece and
folding action on the pod bellow. Remove the mouthpiece from the regulator and
loosely fit the regulator in the pod. Check to insure that it functions properly, with
no interference from, or to, the exhaust tee.
DO NOT USE REGULATORS THAT HAVE
MOUNTTUBES SHAPED LIKETHOSESHOWN
IN FIG. 2.
ONLY USE REGULATORS THAT HAVE A
RETAINING LIP AT THE END OF THE
MOUTH PIECE MOUNT TUBE. THE
MOUNT TUBE SHOULD BE AT LEAST BE
3/4” LONG. (see Fig. 1)
Mouthpiece
Mounting Tube
Pod
Regulator
Tie Wrap
Mouth
Piece
MOUNTING THE SUPERFLOW REGULATOR
WARNING: This procedure is not difficult but does require the proper
toolsandacompleteunderstandingoftheprocedure.Readthisprocedurecarefully
and entirely before attempting to install the regulator.
Tools Needed:
Needle-Nose Pliers
Small Cutters
Fig. 1
3/4”
Fig. 2
!