KISS REBREATHERS Classic KISS User manual
MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
KISS REBREATHERS
CLASSIC KISS MANUAL
2 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
READTHEMANUAL!!!!
INORDERTOFULLYUNDERSTANDYOURNEWREBREATHER,THECOMPONENTS,HOW
THEYWORK,HOWTOHANDLEANDTREATTHEM,YOUMUSTREADTHEMANUALIN
FULL,FORYOURREBREATHER.
SPORTKISSOWNERSSHOULDREADTHESPORTKISSMANUAL.CLASSICKISSOWN-
ERSSHOULDREADTHECLASSICKISSMANUAL.EXPLOREROWNERSSHOULDREAD
BOTHTHEEXPLORERANDCLASSICMANUALS.CLASSICOWNERSWHOHAVEUP-
GRADEDTOSOMEOFTHEEXPLORERCOMPONENTSSHOULDREADBOTHTHECLAS-
SICANDEXPLORERMANUALS.
THISSHOULDBEDONEPRIORTODIVINGORSERVICINGTHISUNIT!!!SPECIALAT-
TENTIONSHOULDBEPAIDTOALLNOTES&/ORWARNINGS;THEYMUSTBEREAD
ANDUNDERSTOOD!!!!FAILURETODOSO,MAYCAUSESERIOUSINJURYORDEATH!!!!
YOUMUSTBEALEGALADULTINTHEAREAINWHICHYOU
LIVEINORDERTOPURCHASEANDDIVEAKISSRE-
BREATHER.
Aswithallscubadivingequipment,yourKISSrebreathercomponentsshouldbeser-
vicedannuallybyatrainedtechnician.Forthosedivingfrequently,servicingmaybe
requiredmoreoften.
ALLINFORMATIONINTHISMANUALISSUBJECTTOCHANGE.
Pleasevisitourwebsite,www.kissrebreathers.com/manuals.html,
forupdatedmanuals.
3 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
THISISNOTAJOKE!!
Participationinrebreatherdivingcanresultinseriousin-
juryordeathtoyou,thediver!
ThewarningontheClassicKISSrebreatherisnotajoke.Beforebeginningyourdive,
youmustconsidertherisksinvolved.TheClassicKISSconsistsofmanyparts.Allof
thesecomponentswilleventuallyfail.Carefulmaintenance,assembly,andtesting
willnotpreventthisfromhappening.Atbest,itwilldelaythefailure.TheClassic
KISSisnotautomaticinanyway.Itrequiresconstantmonitoring,acompleteaware-
nessofthepotentialproblemslikelytobeencountered,andfullknowledgeofhow
todealwithwhateverproblemsmayoccur.Ifyoudonothaveadequatetraining,
equipment,physicalconditioning,andapropermindset,donotgetinthewater.
Thediver,YOU,hasthefinalresponsibilityforhisorherownsafetyandactions
whileusingthisrebreather.AllcomponentsoftheClassicKISSmustbeingood
workingorderandbeproperlyassembledandtestedtoreducetheriskoffailure.
Regardlessofthetrainingandexperienceofthediverandthereliabilityofthere-
breathertheriskofseriousinjuryand/ordeathcanneverbereducedtozero.
ThismanualisnotacompletetextonthemaintenanceandoperationoftheClassic
KISS.Thedivermustcompleteapropertrainingcoursecoveringthemaintenance,
testingandoperationoftherebreatherbeforedivingthisequipment.Therebreather
canmalfunctionwhiledivingevenwhenproperlyassembledandhavingpassedall
pre-divetests.Onlycarryingadequatebailoutgasandhavingthetrainingandskills
necessarytoutilizethebailoutsystemcanreduce,butnevereliminate,theriskof
equipmentfailure.
4 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
5 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
TABLEOFCONTENTS
Information Page 6
Specifications Page 10
PartsList Page11
Schematic Page12
Components Page 13
Unpacking & Disassembly Page 14
O-Ring Installation Page 16
Assembly Page18
Ballast & Mouthpiece positioning Page 18
Counterlungs Page 19
Counterlung size Page 20
Manifold Page 21
Automatic Diluent Valve (ADV) Page 21
Quick Disconnects Page 22
Tank & BCD Installation Page 24
Changing the Scrubber Page 25
Positive/Negative Testing Page 27
Sensor Installation Page 30
Jetsam Triple Display, Info & Calibration Page 32
Replacing Batteries, Meters, Circuit Boards Page 35
Replacing a Single Display Case Page 37
Replacing the Wire Page 39
Display Troubleshooting Page 40
Sensor Information Page 41
VR Triple Pendent Display, Info & Calibration Page 42
Single Fischer & Dual Fischer Plate Information Page 44
Care for Fischer Connectors & Cables Page 45
VRx Programming & Calibration Page 46
VR3 Programming Page 49
Shearwater HUD Page 53
Manual Add Valve/Metering Orifice Page 56
Adjusting the Oxygen Flow Rate Page 58
Manual Add Valve Trouble Shooting Page 60
Exhaust Valve/ADV/Work of Breathing Page 63
Mouthpiece Disassembly (older style) Page 67
Mouthpiece Parts List (older style) Page 70
Mouthpiece Reassembly (older style) Page 71
Mouthpiece Disassembly (NEW) Page 72
Mouthpiece Parts List (NEW) Page 74
Mouthpiece Reassembly (NEW) Page 75
Mouthpiece Testing (NEW) Page 76
Mouthpiece Servicing & Troubleshooting Page 77
Pre-dive Checklist’s Page 79
Training & Basic Skills Page 82
Scrubber Duration Page 83
Warranty Page84
O-RingList Page85
The photographs in this manual were taken by Curt Bowen, Alan Studley, Doug Ebersole, and Kim Mikusch.
6 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
INFORMATION
WelcometotheClassicKISSusersmanual.Thismanualcoversavarietyofinformation.Itwillassistyouinprepar-
inganewunitwithinstructionsonO-ringinsertionandgeneralassembly.Itwillalsoprovideyouwithinformation
onadjustingandservicingyourrebreather.Itisimportantthatthismanualbereadiffullpriortodivingtheunit.
Purchasingarebreatherisabigdecisionformostdivers.KISSRebreatherswouldliketohelpyoumakethebest
decisionpossible.Wewantyoutochooseaunitwhichsuitsyourdiving,yourbudget,andwhereyougetthefea-
turesthatyoudesireinarebreather.Youwill,nodoubt,bedivingthisrebreatherformanyyearsandwewould
likeyoutothinkaboutyourdecisioncarefully.Whenanalyzingthedatatrytothinkbeyondyourupcomingtraining
courseandthenextfewdives.Tryandthinkaboutthelongtermbenefitsorproblemsyoumayexperience.
Therearemanyquestionsthatyoushouldaskpriortomakingadecision.Theanswerstothesequestionswillhelp
youunderstandhowtherebreatherworks,andhelpyoufocusonwhatfeaturesareimportanttoyou.Ifyoudon’t
getananswerfromyourdealerorinstructor,Iwouldsuggestgoingdirectlytothemanufacturer.Ihavelisted
manyquestionsbelowwithmyanswers.Anyquestionsorconcernsaboutmyquestionsandcommentsarewel-
come.Pleasefeelfreetoemailorcall.
KimMikuschSmith,Owner
30 QUESTIONS….
1. Does the manufacturer provide clear and detailed information on what the unit comes with, what it does not come
with, and what the cost is?
The KISS brochures and price sheets outline what is included and what isn’t. But recently I have redesigned them so that
the information is even clearer. In talking with divers, I have found that many people have been frustrated with hidden
costs on other units. We at Jetsam don’t want to fall into that category and I have made an effort to be very clear!!
2. Does the manufacturer have a proven track record on excellent customer service and will they listen to your com-
ments and concerns? Will they answer your questions honestly and will they be straight forward?
The KISS rebreathers have been selling since 1998 with the first units designed in 1996. Jetsam Technologies Ltd. has
proven to have excellent customer service, and we always love to hear from KISS divers. Any comments and concerns
are looked at and responded to immediately. I know that every unit has features that divers like, and some that they
don’t prefer. Any questions that you ask us about the features on the KISS rebreathers will be answered truthfully and
we can go over the pro’s and con’s of all the features together. (Every rebreather on the market will have pro’s & cons)
3. How many components make up the rebreather? How much is there to go wrong or break? If something does break,
is it easily repairable and can it be done at a reasonable cost?
The KISS rebreathers are easily the most straight forward and simple units on the market. We work with the philosophy
that anything and everything will eventually break. And when you take a piece of equipment into water, especially salt
water, that could happen sooner rather than later. Due to this, we have built the KISS rebreathers to have the least
amount of components possible and to make the components that we use durable and easily repairable if required. You
can choose to do all repairs yourself, have your local KISS dealer do them for you, or send your components back to us.
4. Do you need to send any components back to the manufacturer for regular servicing?
All parts of the KISS units can be serviced by either the diver or by an authorized dealer. Should you choose to, parts can
be returned to Jetsam for servicing.
5. Can I modify the unit, should I choose to do so?
Over the years, KISS divers have made various modifications to their units. The position of Jetsam Technologies Ltd. is
that modifications to the KISS rebreathers are extremely dangerous and are strictly prohibited. Any user making their
own modifications are violating the terms of the End User Acknowledgment and Waiver and does so at their own risk. It
has come to our attention that some modifications are deemed unsafe and dangerous. As a result we have had to
change our policy to only allow approved modifications.
7 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
6. How far from home are you comfortable taking your rebreather and still feel confident that you will be able to dive?
Is your spare parts kit and tool kit small and easy to carry and transport?
The KISS rebreathers are known to be the most reliable rebreathers on the market. KISS divers rarely miss a dive. The
units are so robust that it isn’t often that something goes wrong. Also, spare parts are well priced, easy to install onto
the units and most of them fit into a small zip lock bag!
7. What happens if you damage your display? Are backups reasonably priced and easy to carry? Is it a reasonable cost
to repair the damaged display?
Unlike fully electronic units, the KISS rebreathers have affordable displays. All of our display options are reasonably priced
and easy to install. You can choose to purchase any of our displays as spares. They are small and light which makes
them easy to pack for a trip. The Jetsam display is user repairable, or it can be sent back to us for a quick repair at a rea-
sonable cost.
8. Does the rebreather you are looking at purchasing offer you a variety of displays or the option of buying it with no
display? Are they giving you choices?
The KISS rebreathers are available with many display options. You can decide for yourself which features are important
to you. Or, you can opt to buy your KISS rebreather without a display system. With any display system that you choose,
remember that there are pros and cons. Questions to ask include, what is the cost, how easy is it to change or charge
the battery, how durable is the case, and probably most importantly, how easy is it to calibrate the display. If you buy a
display system that is not approved by Jetsam, you must be certain that it works appropriately!
9. Is the unit capable of keeping a good positive and negative seal? Or is it always a struggle to keep the unit water
tight?
With the KISS rebreathers, you know that you should have both a good positive and negative test. If you don’t, there is a
leak. If you aren’t sure if the test is good, then you probably have a small leak. Testing is easy to do, as both the lungs
and loop hoses are accessible and are the key components which need to be watched while testing. If one of the tests
fails, it isn’t difficult to find the leak as the units have a simple design.
10. Are the manual addition gas valves easy to access, and can you choose where to run the hoses and valve so that it
suits you?
The gas addition valves on the KISS rebreathers are designed so that they sit over your shoulder. The valve can be ac-
cessed with either hand. Also, it can be secured to any part of your front area. Additionally the hoses can be swapped
around so that the valve comes around your side, by your waist and secured in that area. Again, this way the valve can
be accessed by either hand. KISS divers can determine what suits them best and dive accordingly.
11. How easy is it to assemble and test the unit? Is it complicated or simple?
The KISS rebreathers are well known for their simplicity and ease of assembly. Whether you are preparing for a dive, or
cleaning your unit, you will find that your pre-dive checks, or changing your absorbent and washing your loop will take
only minutes.
12. How many points of entry to the loop are there? Are there many fittings and tubing? Are they well sealed? If some-
thing goes wrong, is it easy to fix?
The KISS rebreathers have limited entries to the breathing loop. This means that leaks are easier to find, and leaks are
less likely. Also, all O-rings are easy to clean, and easy and quick to change if required to do so. The Sport has mostly
single O-rings seals, and the Classic has mostly double O-ring seals.
13. Is the unit easy to pack in a carry-on or suitcase? Does it travel well, or are parts at risk of damage? If there are
delicate parts, are they easy to protect in the suitcase? Does it take a lot of time to get the unit ready to dive once
you are at your destination?
The KISS rebreathers are easy to travel with. They are 2 of the lightest rebreathers on the market. For travel, you have a
choice on what you would like to put in your carry-on baggage or in your checked luggage. The entire Sport unit can fit
into a carry-on bag. (Cylinders excluded). The Classic head, displays and other key parts can also fit into a carry-on bag.
But, due to the durability of the units, they can both easily be packed into checked luggage.
14. What kind of a rebreather diver do you want to be? Do you want to be in charge of the rebreather, or do you want a
unit which takes control?
The KISS rebreathers have a mechanical system which moves the oxygen through the system. Upon the occasion when
more oxygen is required, a simple push of the oxygen button will deliver it to you. As you are in control of the rebreather,
you will be aware of what your PPO2 is, and should notice any problems as they arise. KISS divers are less likely to be-
come complacent as they know they need to monitor their system.
8 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
15. How many tools are required to maintain the unit, or clean and prepare the unit? Are any of them specialized so that
you must buy them from the manufacturer?
The KISS rebreathers don’t require any special tools that can’t be purchased from your local hardware store. We ship the
unit with a nut driver, and the Classic also with a special KISS tool. (You can also buy this in your local store should you
need another). A basic multi tool and adjustable wrench is all that most KISS divers carry with them. If you dive the Jet-
sam triple display, you will need to carry a small jewellers screwdriver for calibration. This is included with your unit also.
16. How easy is it to access the counterlungs? Are you able to remove them for cleaning and inspection, and to let them
dry properly? Are replacements available at a reasonable cost?
The KISS rebreathers both have easily accessible counterlungs. They are both back mounted lungs and both of the KISS
units provide the diver with the option of matching their own lung volume to the rebreathers lung volume. This makes for
exceptional buoyancy control at all depths, even in water as shallow as 2 or 3 feet!! The Sport lungs are conveniently
located at the bottom of the scrubber canister. The Classic lungs are inside the protective counterlung case. As there are
access holes in the case and the manifold is removable, these lungs are easy to access for removal and cleaning. Also, as
you can see them (sport, feel them in the case) you will be able to easily determine if your positive and negative tests are
working as they should. Watching/feeling the lungs is a very important part of the pre-dive testing. A great feature with
the back mounted lungs is that your chest area is clear of clutter. This is one of the reasons that explorers and photogra-
phers choose to dive the KISS rebreathers.
17. Does the unit require special absorbent or a pre-packaged canister style absorbent? How easy is it to source while at
home? What about when you are on holiday? Can you ship the absorbent to your destination?
The KISS units were tested with Sofnolime 797 grade. As this is the only absorbent we have tested, it is the only one we
can recommend. Please see the back of the manual for more information on absorbent and run times. Absorbent can
easily be obtained at most dive resorts and is easy to pack for travel, should the need arise. The Classic KISS has an axial
flow design.
18. Are there any special batteries or power packs required? If yes, are they easy to get and are they available at a rea-
sonable price? Do you need to carry a charger?
The only batteries in the KISS rebreathers are in the displays. The Jetsam triple wrist display uses 3 photography batter-
ies. They should be readily available worldwide, but some have had difficulty in obtaining them. They are available for
purchase from Jetsam. The VR pendent display uses a AA size battery. Lithium is preferred, but if not available, it will
run on a standard AA battery. The VRx has a built in rechargeable battery which charges in a short time period. A
charger is required & is included.
19. Does the unit have first stages which are easy to repair and source for parts?
The KISS rebreathers are sold with top quality DIN first stages. These first stages and their parts are available world
wide. They are known for their superior performance and also are known to be straightforward to service.
20. Does the unit you are looking at come standard with a bailout mouthpiece?
The KISS rebreathers are always shipped with a bailout mouthpiece. We feel that this is one of the most important fea-
tures of a rebreather; the ability to bailout without removing the mouthpiece from your mouth. If our bailout mouthpiece
is used in conjunction with our off-board accessory, bailout gas can be accessed without using the redundant bailout regu-
lar on your stage bottle.
21. How does the ADV work? What provisions have been made to deal with failures such as free flow?
The KISS ADV system, if not working properly will either free flow or not flow at all. The system is very simple and easy
to keep working. This component should not be disassembled unless there is a problem. The most difficult part is proper
reassembly. If you follow the proper reassembly procedures, then it is easy. In case of the ADV not delivering gas, dilu-
ent can be added to the breathing loop via the mouthpiece. In case of the ADV delivering too much gas, the tank valve
can be turned off, and opened as required. (following proper training procedures is recommended with this type of gear
failure) . The KISS ADV system works in a hands free mode. This means that a busy diver dropping in the water isn’t re-
quired to push a button to get a breathable volume in his loop. All KISS divers need to do is inhale & the diluent gas is
delivered.
22. Where will you get basic replacement parts such as O-rings? Does a spare set come with the unit? If you need to
purchase them, does the manufacturer offer them at a reasonable fee and do they make the O-ring numbers available
to you so you can source your own?
When you buy a KISS, 1 spare bag of O-rings is included and additional spares can be purchased at a reasonable price from
us or one of our authorized dealers. Also, we list the part numbers for the O-rings in the back of the manual so that you
can source your own, should you choose to.
9 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
23. What type and size of cylinders will work with the unit? Are you locked into a certain size or type of cylinder
due to a cover for the unit, or because of the valve style? If yes, how will this effect your traveling? Will you
need to carry the tanks with you or will you be able to rent cylinders at your travel destination?
Any type of standard aluminum or steel cylinder with a DIN valve can be used with the KISS rebreathers. The Classic
KISS can be used with the standard 13 to 19 cu.ft. cylinders or can even handle larger ones. If larger cylinders are used,
you will need to upgrade your tank mounting system. The KISS rebreathers have easily accessible cylinders and mount-
ing areas.
24. Is the oxygen add valve reliable and a well tested design?
The KISS oxygen add valve design is tried and tested. It is the same design that has been used since we first started sell-
ing rebreathers, over 10 years ago. The body design has been updated a few times, but the working parts are the same.
25. How is off-board gas added to the rebreather, for either bailout or for multiple gas dives?
If either diluent gas or oxygen needs to be added to the system, it can be done with the use of the off-board accessory.
Those doing technical dives, where being able to add redundant gas to the system is a must, find this a simple, reliable
system.
26. What kind of diving are you planning on doing and is the unit that you are looking at appropriate for this type of div-
ing? Is it flexible and will it meet all your diving needs?
The Classic KISS is an exceptional unit for explorers of all kinds as it is extremely reliable and flexible. Cave, wreck, and
deep divers choose it as it is easy to travel with, light enough to carry into remote areas, and for those that just want to
do a basic reef dive, it’s small and easy to use. The Sport KISS is very small and light weight and will also take divers
past regular recreational limits. Many photographers choose the KISS units due to ease of use, size, and weight.
27. Does the manufacturer have an excellent safety record?
Jetsam Technologies Ltd. has one of the best safety records for rebreather manufacturers.
28. Is the unit supported worldwide with both divers and a dealer network?
Jetsam has a world wide dealer network, and also has divers world wide. There is no difficulty in finding dive buddies in
any part of the world.
29. Is the manufacturer ISO registered?
Jetsam Technologies Ltd. is an ISO 9001:2008 registered company.
30. Are you considering purchasing a used rebreather? If you are, what risks are you taking in purchasing a rebreather,
sight unseen?
As the KISS rebreathers are known to be durable and tough, there is a healthy used market for them. Things to think
about if you are considering purchasing a used KISS: which display does the system have, how do you know that the dis-
play system is working properly, if it isn't working properly are you willing to pay for repairs or a new one, are you pre-
pared to give the unit a good cleaning and inspection, could anything else be damaged? When purchasing a used unit,
remember that you can’t expect it to be perfect, as you don’t know the units history. With a new unit, you are starting
fresh.
10 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
SPECIFICATIONS:CLASSICKISS
• Weight with full 13 cu.ft. aluminum tanks, full scrubber, but no BC back plate or harness is 51 lb (22 kg).
• Dimensions are 21” x 14” x 8” (54cm x 36cm x 20cm).
• PLEASE SEE OUR PARTS LIST ON THE NEXT PAGE FOR A FULL LIST OF WHAT IS INCLUDED AND WHAT IS NOT.
• It is a mechanical rebreather which adds O2 continuously by a feed orifice and manually as needed.
• Compatible with Trimix.
• Scrubber holds 5.7 lb (2.7 g) of absorbent.
• The Classic KISS is a closed circuit rebreather designed for recreational and technical sport diving to the depth of 250
feet (75 meters). Proper training, outside the basic KISS rebreather course is required for any deep or technical div-
ing. For some types of diving, extra gear must be carried or alternate gear configurations will be required. Ensure
you have the proper training, gases and gear to conduct your planned dive.
The Classic KISS Rebreather Kit comes with the O-rings NOT installed. You will have to do this yourself. However, the O-
rings for the mouthpiece, ADV, manual add valve and the displays are already in place.
11 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
PartsList
1 Classic KISS
• 1 Counterlung case with detachable manifold, detachable tank rails, and 1” back plate mounting system which includes
the bolts, fender washers and lock washers
• 1 Scrubber head with all required parts (CL attachments and rings, towers, elbow, exhaust valve, draw nut)
• 1 Scrubber head hat
• 2 Counterlungs: includes a 2 liter and a 4 liter unless otherwise specified - no charge for different combination
• 1 Diluent first stage with, OPV, and swivel elbow
• 1 Oxygen first stage with delrin plug, OPV, and swivel elbow
• 1 LP diluent hose and hose adapter (manifold to diluent first stage)
• 1 Manual add valve, with filter and with 2 Miflex hoses
• 1 ADV assembly: cover, diaphragm, valve bolt, valve stem, LP swivel elbow
• 1 LP diluent hose with hose adapter (ADV swivel to manifold)
• 1 Scrubber canister with base & inner tube, which is packed with:
4 small lined hose clamps - to attach quick connect system to loop hoses
4 large hose clamps - tank mounting system
2 O-ring sets - One is a spare
1 nut driver
1 KISS tool - for draw nut
2 hex bolts, 1 1/2 inch - for back plate attachment, if required
1 counterlung ring, spare
8 SS ballast rings
1 bailout mouthpiece with LP hose
2 loop hoses: 22” included unless otherwise specified - no charge to replace with 17” hoses
4 quick connect hose stubs for loop hoses
1 CD - Manuals
DISPLAYOPTIONS,IFORDERED:
• Jetsam triple wrist display with attachment plate, 2 wrist straps and jewelers screw driver set
• Jetsam dual wrist display with VR3 cable, 2 wrist straps and jewelers screw driver set (cable will read one sensor)
• VR pendent display with dual fischer attachment plate
• VRx dive computer with dual fischer attachment plate
• Dual fischer attachment plate only
• No display
• Optional Shearwater HUD - attaches to dual fischer plate.
NOTINCLUDED:
• Sensors (3 AI sensors, PSR-11-39-MD) , pressure gauges (2), wing and back plate assembly. Sensor warranty periods
start from the moment they are shipping from the Teledyne warehouse. As such, it is best that they are ordered di-
rectly from the distributor or a dealer so that you get the freshest sensors possible. This way you know they have
not been sitting on our shelf for some time. Most divers have pressure gauges which can be used. This is also true
for the wing and back plate assembly. Additional LP and HP swivels.
EXTRAS:
We are happy to supply you with more LP swivel elbows, HP swivel elbows, webbing tank straps, off-board gas acces-
sory.
12 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
Illustration By Curt Bowen,
Advanced Diver Magazine
www.advanceddivermagazine.com
Schematic
13 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
Components
A. Mouthpiece
B. Counterlungs: 2 liter &/or 4 liter
C. Oxygen Manual Add Valve with 15 micron filter
D. Exhaust Valve
E. Scrubber Canister: Approximately 6 lbs (2.7 kg)
F. ADV: Automatic Diluent Valve
G. Triple Sensor Well: For oxygen sensors
H. PPO2 Displays: Three independent PPO2 displays. Jetsam triple: with its
own housing, battery and sensor, or VR technologies triple pendent.
I. Bail-out Second Stage: The bail-out second stage is incorporated into the
DSV. To switch from closed circuit to open circuit bail-out, simply close the
breathing loop. The bail-out second stage is plumbed to the diluent tank.
NOTE: The bail-out second stage is for getting a sanity breath only. Divers
should carry a redundant bail-out system for emergencies.
J. Oxygen Tank and First Stage: 13 cuft tanks are recommended.
K. Diluent Tank and First Stage: The Classic KISS is compatible with either air
or trimix as a diluent gas. 13 cuft tanks are recommended.
14 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
Unpacking&Disassembly
Remove the two large screws on the counterlung
case shown in the photo, above right. Removing
these screws will detach the scrubber head from
the counterlung case. Unscrew the diluent add
hose that runs from the LP manifold to the diluent
add elbow. Undo the large brass draw nut that se-
cures the scrubber canister to the scrubber head.
There is a special tool for this job, but as it has
been packed inside the scrubber canister you will
need to find a substitute.
After removing your new Classic KISS
from the crate, ensure that you have a
DSV, 2 breathing hoses, 4 hose stubs, dis-
plays (if ordered), 2 counterlungs, 1 CD’s,
and of course, the rebreather.
First, various components will need to be
disassembled in order to install the O-
Rings. Start with the counterlungs (if
attached); turn the counterlung attach-
ment counter clockwise to loosen the
lung and then remove it. Next, remove
the top cap on the scrubber head.
15 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
Once loose, remove the head from the scrubber canister.
Inside the scrubber canister you will find 2 packages of O-Rings, a
nut driver, additional back plate bolts, large hose clamps, small
lined clamps, ballast, spare counterlung ring and the special KISS
tool.
Set aside all the parts from the inside of the canister except for 1
bag of O-Rings. From that bag, set aside the bags labeled
“mouthpiece” and “MAV” These O-Rings are spares. The unit
comes with the O-rings installed in the DSV, manual add valve,
ADV and the displays.
16 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
O-RingInstallation
Using the O-ring diagram at the back of the manual, separate the remaining O-rings by size. The O-rings that need
to be installed are for the scrubber canister, exhaust valve, sensor cover, counterlungs, sensor/kidney plate and the
draw nut. All other O-rings have been installed. As with any piece of scuba diving equipment, the various compo-
nents and O-rings should be checked annually, and serviced as required. For those doing extensive diving, the vari-
ous components and O-rings should be checked more frequently. Servicing of your Classic KISS can be done by
you, your dealer, or the parts can be returned to us. You are now ready to start installing the O-rings. First, un-
screw the counterlung attachments and the exhaust valve and remove them from the scrubber head.
*NOTE:ALLO-RINGSSHOULDBELIGHTLYLUBRICATED!!DONOTUSEEXCESSAMOUNTSOFLU-
BRICANT;THEO-RINGSSHOULDONLYBESLIGHTLYSHINY.
• The counterlung attachments take a 028 O-ring around the threaded
section. This O-ring should be worked into the groove which is ma-
chined into the face of the attachment. On the other side of the
counterlung attachment a 224 O-ring should be installed. This has a
larger groove than the 028. This O-ring will need to be snapped into
the groove. Once the O-rings are installed, insert the counterlung
attachment into the scrubber head and hand tighten. Ensure that
you do not pinch the collar under the attachments. The collar should
spin freely.
• The exhaust valve takes a 220 O-ring which goes around the
threaded area. This O-ring seals the valve against the top of the
scrubber head. Once the O-ring is installed, reattach the valve to the
scrubber head by hand tightening. When tightening, hold the exhaust
valve by the body. Do not force it by holding onto the valve adjust-
ment. If you force it, it can pop past its adjustment latch and the
valve may no longer be adjustable. Once reattached, this valve
should be run closed.
*NOTE:Anydamagetothevalve,oranydebriscaughtinthe
valvemaycauseamalfunction&/orleak.Careshouldbetakenwhenservicingthevalveand
alsowhenfillingthescrubbercanister.Anyoftheabsorbentmaterialwhichfallsintothecen-
tertube,canwindupinsidethevalve,ifthediverturnsupsidedown!!
• The scrubber draw nut requires a 114 & 111 O-ring. The larger O-ring
should be installed against the face of the nut and the smaller should
be stretched over the body and snaped into the groove.
17 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
• The scrubber head requires a 248, 250 & 223 O-ring. The 248 O-ring
goes into the radial groove around the scrubber head. It must be care-
fully worked down and pressed into the groove. The larger 250 axial O-
ring gets pressed into the groove which forms a face seal. The final O-
ring for the scrubber head is a 223 which fits inside the scrubber tube
and slides into the internal groove.
• Install the last 2 large O-rings, a 248 and a 250 on the bottom of the
scrubber canister. The 248 goes in the radial grove and the 250 in the
axial groove.
*WARNING:ITISIMPORTANTTHATALLO-RINGSAREINGOOD
CONDITION,THATTHECOMPONENTSARENOTDAMAGEDAND
THATTHESEALINGAREASARECLEAN.IFTHEYAREN’T,THEO-
RINGSMAYLEAKCAUSINGTHEREBREATHERTOFLOOD.THIS
MAYLEADTOSERIOUSINJURYORDEATH!!!
ALSO,IFTHETHREADEDRODISDAMAGED,ITMAYBEDIFFICULTORIMPOSSIBLETOATTACH
THEDRAWNUT.IFTHEDRAWNUTISEXTREMELYDIFFICULTTOATTACH,ITMAYPULLTHEROD
OUTOFTHEBOTTOMFIXTURE!!IFTHISHAPPENS,YOUWILLNOTICETHATITISVERYDIFFI-
CULTTOATTACHANDTHATTHEHEIGHTOFTHERODHASCHANGED!
18 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
Assembly
Once the O-rings have been installed, the balance of the assembly can begin. Start with the ballast. Units are
shipped with 8 stainless steel rings. 4 rings should be placed on each breathing hose.
The weights can be moved up and down the hoses underwater for proper placement. With the loop hoses prop-
erly adjusted with no twists, and the ballast properly placed, the DSV will be weightless underwater!
The ballast rings should be placed approximately a third of the way up the loop hoses if you are diving the older
mouthpiece. For those who have the new BOV, the rings should be much closer to the actual mouthpiece as it is
much lighter. Attach the mouthpiece to the hoses, and then lift it so that it is level with the top of the unit. Look
at the loop hoses; they should have a gentle curve. If they are twisted, adjust them by turning the end of the hose
by the mouthpiece. These steps are important. If this isn’t done, then the mouthpiece will be uncomfortable.
The ballast rings will need to be adjusted again, once
in the water. Positioning will be different for every
diver. While in the pool, your instructor will demon-
strate neutral mouthpiece buoyancy. Ideally the mouth-
piece will float neutrally in front of the divers face, if
the rings are placed properly and the loop hoses are
not twisted. If when doing this skill, the mouthpiece is
not floating in the desired area, ensure that your hoses
are not twisted and adjust your ballast rings. To adjust
the hoses underwater, simply hold the mouthpiece with
one hand, and gently turn the hose with the other.
Again, once the rings are properly placed, they do not
need adjusting again.
These steps are important. If this isn’t done, then the mouthpiece will be uncomfortable.
*NOTE:Forthemouthpiecetobecomfortable,theaboveinstructionsmustbefollowed.Ifyou
feelthemouthpieceeitherpullingupordownwhilediving,adjustitbyholdingontothe
mouthpieceandgentlyturningthehosebyholdingtheendwithyourotherhand.
To assemble the scrubber canister, place the canister over the bottom cap and push down gently. While pushing,
rock the canister slightly to ease the tube over the O-rings. Once assembled, check the base to ensure that the O-
rings are not protruding. When secure, place the scrubber tube inside the canister.
Reattach the scrubber head to the counterlung case using the two large flat head screws. It should be securely
attached without over-tightening. Reattach the diluent addition hose.
19 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
To attach the scrubber canister, lay your Classic KISS, counterlung side down.
See Page 25 for instructions on filling the scrubber. Slide the canister onto
the scrubber head. When the canister reaches the first O-ring, gently rock
the canister back and forth until the O-ring is compressed inside the tube. If
too much force is used, the O-ring will dislodge and a leak will occur. If that
happens, and the O-ring is badly pinched, you may need to replace the O-ring.
An indentation could cause another leak!
Once the scrubber canister is pushed onto the scrubber head, insert the
draw nut and start to hand tighten it. Once hand tight, stand the Classic
KISS up and tighten using the KISS tool. Attach the hat. For those who
wish to attach a fourth sensor to read a dive computer, the port on the left
hand side of the scrubber head can be used.
*WARNING:Unlessthelefthandportisutilized,thetwoplugsmustremaininplace.Failureto
doso,willcausewaterintrusion,&/orwillcausegastobypassfromitsintendedpath.Either
ofthesecouldcauseinjuryordeath!!
Once you have reattached the scrubber canister and scrubber head to the counterlung case, you are ready to at-
tach the counterlungs.
*NOTE:FOREASEOFATTACHMENT,AVERYSMALLAMOUNTOFLUBRICANTCANBEAPPLIEDTO
THEINSIDEOFTHECOUNTERLUNGOPENING.
COUNTERLUNGS:
The Classic KISS uses two back mounted counterlungs that are available in two sizes; 2 & 4 liter capacity. A com-
bination of these will normally provide a good match between the counterlung volume and the divers tidal volume.
Most divers will use a 2 and a 4 liter lung. Smaller people, including women, will normally use two 2 liter lungs
and larger people, two 4 liter lungs. This allows for precise buoyancy control at any depth, including shallow water.
Back mounted counterlungs leave the chest area clear and reduce the number of hoses and fittings compared to
over the shoulder counterlungs found on other CCR designs. These lungs are inexpensive and easy to replace.
To attach the counterlungs, insert the
lungs either through the top or bottom of
the case. If required, the manifold can be
popped off the case to make more room.
To pop the manifold off, either pull up by
hand, or use a flat screwdriver as a lever.
It is supposed to be somewhat difficult to
remove, so that it does not come off acci-
dently during a dive.
20 MSL 72.125 Jetsam/Classic KISS manual R.5
Push the counterlung onto the counterlung attachment firmly. Then using 2 or
3 fingers, start pushing at the top of the lung. This is to help push it into posi-
tion. Move around the lung, clockwise, pushing firmly as you go. You are mov-
ing in small increments only, ensuring that you press on every part of the lung.
As you get to the inside edge, it will feel like it will not attach properly. Just
keep pushing firmly, and continue around the circle. It won’t pop into position
the first time around. Once at the top of the lung again, continue to push, do-
ing another circle. This time when you get to the inside edge, push a little
harder, and it should snap past the resistance point. This will get easier after
the first few times. Ensure that the lung is pushed straight onto the attach-
ment, and turn the ring clockwise to secure. When the counterlung is tight,
there should be an 1/8 inch gap between the ring and the face of the counter-
lung, and the gap should be even. Do not apply excess force when tightening the ring. It is not required and the
ring will break. Using a tool to tighten this ring usually results in damage or breakage to the ring.
Once attached, secure the Velcro to the bottom of the counterlung case.
*WARNING:ITISIMPORTANTTHATTHELUNGSAREPROPERLY
SECUREDTOTHEBOTTOMOFTHECOUNTERLUNGCASEUSING
THEVELCROSUPPLIED.IFTHELUNGSARENOTSECURED,THEY
WILLFLOATUPANDBREATHINGWILLBEDIFFICULT.ENSURE
THATTHELUNGSAREPUSHEDONSTRAIGHTANDTHATTHE
RINGSARENOTOVER-TIGHTENEDASTHEYWILLSPLIT!!
DETERMININGTHECORRECTCOUNTERLUNGSIZE:
To determine if the counterlungs are a suitable size, first put the mouthpiece into your mouth, open the loop and
inhale the gas into your lungs and then out of your nose until the loop is completely empty. When the loop is
empty, close the DSV without allowing any air to enter. Then, take a large breath, as much as you can hold, put
the DSV into your mouth, open the loop and exhale all your air completely into the loop and then close the DSV.
Ideally, the lung size should be as evenly matched to your own lungs as possible. If you find that when doing this
test you can get more than one full breath into the loop before it is full, then possibly smaller lungs should be
used. However, never use counterlungs where the volume is smaller than your own! Smaller people will find that
they use a 2&2 liter, while most people will use 2&4 liter lungs. Larger people will use 4&4 liter lungs.
In matching your tidal volume to the counterlung volume, you will find that your buoyancy in shallow water can be
exceptional. Only KISS divers can hold their position in water that is only 3 to 4 feet deep. If you are finding buoy-
ancy difficult in water this shallow, this is due to either being new on the rebreather or the counterlungs are too
large.
While doing this test at the surface, remember that underwater your required volume won’t change. If you find
that your surface test went well, but it feels like the lungs are too small underwater, you probably have too much
gas in the loop. To correct this, exhale some of the gas out of your nose. Or, you failed to attach the Velcro to the
bottom of the case and the lungs are floating up. This will cause either a decrease in lung volume &/or will in-
crease the work of breathing. See the note at the top of the page.
Table of contents
Other KISS REBREATHERS Diving Instrument manuals
