Sperian PANTHER User manual

PANTHER™/COUGAR™/PUMA™
SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA)
30 MINUTE LP SERIES
30/45/60 MINUTE HP SERIES
OPERATION MANUAL
WARNING
DO NOT USE this SCBA until you completely read and understand this instruction
manual. You are required to inspect your SCBA prior to putting it into eld service.
Please refer to the inspection procedures in this manual. DO NOT USE this SCBA un-
less you are properly trained and this SCBA has been properly maintained. Failure to
comply with this Warning may lead to personal injury, illness, or death.
©Copyright Sperian Respiratory Protection USA, LLC
April 2008 All Rights Reserved
P/N 968808 REV F 10/08
AN ISO 9001
REGISTERED
COMPANY
Sperian Respiratory Protection USA, LLC
3001 South Susan St., Santa Ana, CA 92704
Toll-Free 888.APR.SCBA or 714.545.0410
Fax [phone]
www.sperianprotection.com

WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
LIMITED WARRANTY: SPERIAN warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for 12
years from the date of purchase, with the exception of the Puma hood, which is warranted for 2 years; the compressed
air cylinder, which is warranted for 15 years; and the rst stage regulator, which is warranted for the life of the product.
If the SCBA is equipped with a Heads-Up Display, the HUD electronics are warranted for 2 years. During these periods,
SPERIAN will repair or replace defective parts, at SPERIAN’s option.
Freight charges to and from the SPERIAN factory shall be paid by the purchaser.
EXCLUSIONS: NOTWITHSTANDING ANY CONTRARY TERM IN THE PURCHASER’S PURCHASE ORDER OR
OTHERWISE, THE ONLY WARRANTY EXTENDED BY SPERIAN IS THE EXPRESSED LIMITED WARRANTY DE-
FINED ABOVE. THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANT-
ABILITY, OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
CONDITIONS: To maintain this warranty, this product must be used, maintained, and inspected as prescribed in the
owner’s instruction manual, including prompt replacement or repair of defective parts, mandatory ow tests and over-
hauls, and such other necessary maintenance and repair as may be required. Normal wear and tear; parts damaged
by abuse, misuse, negligence, or accidents; batteries; and installed accessories which have separate warranties are
specically excluded from this warranty.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: No other oral warranties, representations, or guarantees of any kind have been made by
SPERIAN, its distributors, or the agents of either of them, that in any way alter the terms of this warranty. EXCEPT AS
HEREIN PROVIDED, SPERIAN SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT,
INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL, TO ANY PURCHASER OR USER OF THIS PRODUCT ARISING
FROM THE SALE, USE, OR OPERATION OF THIS PRODUCT.
WARNING
The failure to use and maintain this equipment in strict conformance with the appli-
cable instruction manual may result in personal injury, illness, or death. The equip-
ment’s use in any manner that is not expressly authorized pursuant to the applicable
instruction manual may result in severe adverse impacts to human health.

Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
1
Table of Contents
I. INTRODUCTION........................................................................... 1
II. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS............................................................. 1
III. PARTS LIST ................................................................................ 4
IV. DESCRIPTION............................................................................ 5
A. Backpack and Cylinder ........................................................... 5
B. First Stage Regulator .............................................................. 6
C. Gauge/Heads-Up Display (HUD) ............................................ 6
D. Chest-mounted Gauge............................................................ 7
E. Second Stage Regulator ......................................................... 7
F. Facepiece ................................................................................ 8
G. Universal Air Connection (UAC) ............................................. 8
V. UNPACKAGING ........................................................................... 9
A. Warranty Card ......................................................................... 9
B. Remove the SCBA from the Packaging .................................. 9
VI. OPERATION ............................................................................... 9
A. Donning................................................................................... 9
B. Leak Check—TwentyTwenty Plus Facepiece ....................... 12
C. Leak Check—Puma Hood .................................................... 12
D. Exhalation Valve Test—TwentyTwenty Plus
Facepiece and Hood ................................................................. 12
E. Pressurization ....................................................................... 12
F. Universal Air Connection (UAC) Operation............................ 14
G. Emergency Operation........................................................... 15
H. Dofng................................................................................... 15
I. Cylinder Removal and Reinstallation...................................... 16
J. Transportation........................................................................ 17
K. Interface Considerations ....................................................... 17
VII. CYLINDER FILLING AND SAFETY ......................................... 17
A. Inspection.............................................................................. 18
B. Filling Procedure ................................................................... 19
VIII. MAINTENANCE...................................................................... 20
A. Facepiece Cleaning .............................................................. 20
B. Second Stage Regulator Cleaning........................................ 21
C. Exterior Surfaces Cleaning ................................................... 22
D. Inspection.............................................................................. 22
E. Repair.................................................................................... 22
F. Functional Testing .................................................................. 22
G. Cylinder Maintenance and Recharging................................. 22
H. Cold Weather Operation and Maintenance........................... 22
I. Storage ................................................................................... 26
J. Overhaul Frequency .............................................................. 26
K. Additional Information............................................................ 27
IX. INSPECTION TABLE ................................................................ 28
X. REPAIR TABLE.......................................................................... 29
XI. FUNCTIONAL TESTING TABLE............................................... 31
XII. CAUTIONS AND LIMITATIONS ............................................... 32
I. INTRODUCTION
This manual provides operating instructions as well
as cleaning, maintenance, and storage procedures for
the SPERIAN Panther™/Cougar™/Puma™high and low
pressure SCBA. You must read and understand these
instructions and be properly trained before using the
SCBA in a hazardous atmosphere.
NOTE
All SPERIAN-certied technicians are re-
quired to remain current on new procedures
and parts through SPERIAN’s published
Technical Bulletins, technical manual revi-
sions, and certication seminars.
II. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
The Warnings, Cautions, and Notes contained in this
manual have the following signicance:
NOTE
Maintenance or operating procedures and
techniques or information considered impor-
tant enough to emphasize.
WARNING
The user is responsible for establishing•
that this equipment is suitable for the
user’s application.
For respiratory protection, this SCBA•
must be worn and used as specied in
SPERIAN’s instructions. No protective
equipment can provide complete pro-
tection from all conditions. Use extreme
care for all emergency operations. DO
NOT USE THE COUGAR OR PUMA
SCBA FOR INTERIOR STRUCTURAL
FIRE FIGHTING OR IN OTHER APPLI-
CATIONS INVOLVING EXPOSURE TO
HIGH HEAT OR DIRECT FLAME. Do not
use the Panther SCBA alone for any re
ghting or hazardous materials opera-
tions; additional protective clothing and
equipment are required for protection.
This SCBA may cease to provide pro-
tection if used during excessive heat or
ashover conditions harsher than those
in which it has been tested. This SCBA
must be utilized under suitable thermal
protective garments during exposure
to excessive heat or ashovers. Users
must clean and maintain this SCBA
only in accordance with SPERIAN’s in-
structions. Accessories or replacement
components not certied for use with
this SCBA may degrade performance or
make this SCBA unsafe, or void NIOSH
certication, and must not be used
without SPERIAN’s written
WARNING
Maintenance or operating procedures
and techniques that may result in per-
sonal injury, illness, or death if not
carefully followed.
CAUTION
Maintenance or operating procedures
and techniques that may result in
damage to equipment if not carefully
followed.

Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
2
WARNING—Continued
consent. The user must read, under-
stand, and follow the accessory in-
stallation and operation instructions
before using this SCBA in a hazard-
ous environment. Only SPERIAN com-
ponents shall be used with this SCBA.
Failure to comply shall void the war-
ranty and NIOSH approval.
Your SPERIAN respirator has been•
constructed of materials selected after
careful consideration for their perfor-
mance, safety, and durability. However,
all materials have exposure limitations
to ame, extremes of heat and cold, or
to the many chemicals in use today. No
materials exist that can be used safely
in all of these environments.
Our engineers cannot predict what will•
happen to this equipment in every po-
tential environment. Materials can be
chemically attacked if exposed to the
wrong environment and may exhibit
excessive corrosion or other forms of
damage. Permeation of gases and liq-
uids through the materials could be ex-
cessive. Flame or extremes of tempera-
ture might cause thermal degradation.
Each of these things, or a combination
of them, could create conditions in
which this SPERIAN equipment would
be dangerous to use.
This respirator will reduce, but will•
not eliminate the inhalation of con-
taminants. Before allowing anyone to
enter a hazardous environment while
wearing SPERIAN equipment, you
must conduct safe, scientic tests to
determine if the environment could
render the equipment unsafe. Results
of this testing should be well docu-
mented. Seek the help of a certied
safety professional or industrial hy-
gienist. DO NOT USE this equipment
if the user would be endangered in
any way through environmentally in-
duced degradation of the materials in
the apparatus.
All persons using this SPERIAN•
breathing apparatus must be made
aware of its limitations. We cannot be
responsible for any damage to prop-
erty, personal injury, or death in which
environmental exposure is a contrib-
uting factor.
This respirator does not protect ex-•
posed areas of the body. Some con-
taminants can be absorbed directly
through the skin while others may ir-
ritate exposed areas.
WARNING—Continued
Visual indications of material degra-•
dation may be identied by charring,
blistering, cracking, crazing, pitting,
chalking, rust, and signicant color
changes, all of which can result in a
weakened structure, prohibiting ex-
tended useful service life.
Do not wear this respirator if a satis-•
factory t, as determined by a qualita-
tive or quantitative t test, cannot be
obtained. See ANSI Z88.2 latest edi-
tion and OSHA Respirator Standard
(29 CFR 1910.134).
Beards and sideburns will prevent •
a good facepiece seal. Do not use
this respirator unless you are clean
shaven.
This respirator must be used in con-•
junction with a written respirator pro-
gram meeting the requirements of
the OSHA Standard for Respiratory
Protection, 29 CFR 1910.134, avail-
able from the U.S. Department of La-
bor, Occupational Safety and Health
Administration. The program must
include, but not be limited to proce-
dures for evaluating air contaminants
and selecting appropriate respirators,
procedures for testing the facepiece-
to-face t of respirators, procedures
for cleaning, disinfecting, inspecting,
maintaining, and storing respirators,
procedures for determining if workers
are physically and medically capable
of wearing respirators, and proce-
dures for training employees in the
use of respirators and in recognizing
the hazards associated with contami-
nants in the workplace.
Do not use this respirator underwater•
or for abrasive blasting.
Before use in welding operations, the•
SCBA must be equipped with a black
facepiece, a welding shield, and upper
and lower bibs.
This SCBA is designed for storage in•
temperatures from -30°F to +160°F.
SPERIAN respirators, accessories,•
and associated equipment should not
be used in atmospheres which may
contain contaminant concentrations
above the lower explosive level (LEL).
Intrinsic safety certication of elec-
tronic components does not eliminate
potential danger from ignition in these
atmospheres.

3
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
WARNING—Continued
The pressure within the SPERIAN•
facepiece remains positive under
most working conditions, but as with
all SCBAs, negative pressure excur-
sions are possible. Conditions when
an SCBA can experience negative
facepiece pressures include, but are
not limited to: 1) the SCBA is improp-
erly worn, 2) the SCBA is not used in
accordance with the instructions, 3)
the SCBA is improperly maintained, or
4) the SCBA is over-breathed during
heavy work rates. The SCBA will pro-
vide reduced protection when oper-
ated in a negative pressure mode.
Some sensitive individuals may ex-•
perience health problems when ex-
posed to even minute amounts of con-
taminants. This SCBA will not prevent
health problems for those individuals.
Persons sensitized can have a se-•
vere reaction to chemicals at levels
well below accepted health levels
such as the OSHA Permissible Expo-
sure Limit (PEL), ACGIH®Threshold
Limit Value (TLV®), or NIOSH Recom-
mended Exposure Limits (REL). Do
not use this SCBA if you have been
sensitized from previous exposure or
believe that you may be sensitive or
allergic to any chemical (e.g., isocya-
nates, latex, etc.).
Do not alter or modify this SCBA in any•
manner. Modifying this SCBA will void
NIOSH certication and may create a
condition in which the SCBA would
not provide the intended protection.
Some individuals are sensitive to •
chemicals (e.g., isocyanates, latex,
oil mists, etc.) or may have some
type of respiratory disorder (e.g.,
asthma, chronic obstructive airway
disease, etc.). If you are sensitive to
any chemical or have a respiratory
disorder, you may have a severe reac-
tion at contaminant levels well below
accepted health levels, such as the
OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit
(PEL), ACGIH®Threshold Limit Value
(TLV®), or the NIOSH Recommended
Exposure Limits (REL). Many chemi-
cals (e.g., isocyanates, mercury, etc.)
have no physical warning properties
and you cannot taste or smell the con-
taminants even though they may be
present in the facepiece. This SCBA
will reduce, but will not eliminate, the
possibility of contaminants entering
the facepiece and causing a severe
reaction. Do not use this respirator
under these conditions.
WARNING—Continued
Discontinue use if you experience•
skin irritation or discoloration.
You must read, understand, and fol-•
low all warnings, instructions, labels,
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS),
etc., for the materials you are using
(e.g., paints, hardeners, insecticides,
varnishes, etc.). You must also read,
understand, and follow all warnings,
instructions, etc., listed in the MSDS
for any contaminants that may be or
are present in the work area.
An impact to the second stage regu-•
lator when the cylinder valve is open
may inadvertently activate the First-
Breath-On mechanism, causing air to
ow from the regulator and diminish-
ing the air in the cylinder.
ONLY grasp the cylinder valve hand-•
wheel to open or close the valve; DO
NOT pick up or carry a cylinder by
the handwheel, drop a cylinder on the
handwheel, or bump the handwheel,
as this may cause the cylinder valve
to inadvertently open, which may lead
to the cylinder becoming airborne
under the thrust of air released from
the valve, causing injury or death. AL-
WAYS pick up and carry an air cylin-
der by the cylinder body.
DO NOT over-torque the air cylinder •
valves. ALWAYS verify that the hydro-
static test facility performing your cyl-
inder testing DOES NOT over-torque
the cylinder valves when they rein-
stall them. SPERIAN SCBA air cylin-
der valves must be tightened with a
torque wrench to a torque value of 70
ft-lb. The torque wrench must have a
range of no more than 0 to 175 ft-lb
and an accuracy of at least ±4 ft-lb (a
variation of no more than 6%).
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE•
WARNINGS MAY LEAD TO PERSON-
AL INJURY, ILLNESS, OR DEATH.

4
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
Figure 1. Panther/Cougar SCBA
Puma Hood TwentyTwenty Plus
Facepiece Kit
III. PARTS LIST (See Figure 1)
ITEM P/N DESCRIPTION
Facepiece Size Color
Nose
Cup
1 252021 TwentyTwenty Plus Medium Blue Large
252023 TwentyTwenty Plus Medium Black Large
252010 TwentyTwenty Plus Small Blue Medium
252011 TwentyTwenty Plus Small Blue Large
252012 TwentyTwenty Plus Small Black Medium
252013 TwentyTwenty Plus Small Black Large
252020 TwentyTwenty Plus Medium Blue Medium
252022* TwentyTwenty Plus Medium Black Medium
252030 TwentyTwenty Plus Large D. Gray Medium
252031 TwentyTwenty Plus Large D. Gray Large
252032 TwentyTwenty Plus Large Black Medium
252033 TwentyTwenty Plus Large Black Large
252038 TwentyTwenty Plus Small Blue Small
252053 TwentyTwenty Plus Small Black Small
252040 TwentyTwenty Plus Medium Blue Small
252041 TwentyTwenty Plus Medium Black Small
252042 TwentyTwenty Plus Large D. Gray Small
252043 TwentyTwenty Plus Large Black Small
968005 Hood-style (Puma) Standard Orange Small
968006* Hood-style (Puma) Standard Orange Medium
968007 Hood-style (Puma) Standard Orange Large
2 961709 Cougar/Puma Second Stage Regulator, Standard
961793 Cougar/Puma Second Stage Regulator, Buddy Breather
968801* Panther Second Stage Regulator, HUD
3 968802* Intermediate Pressure Line, HUD
961494 Buddy Breather Hose Assembly, Cougar/Puma
965110 Over-the-Shoulder Buddy Breather Kit
4 968800 Heads-Up Display (HUD), 2216 psig
968877 Heads-Up Display (HUD), 3000 psig
968888* Heads-Up Display (HUD), 4500 psig
5 980642 Gauge, L.P. (2216 psig) (Not Shown)
980643 Gauge, L.P. (3000 psig) (Not Shown)
980641 Gauge, H.P. (4500 psig) (Not Shown)
968818 Accessory Gauge Hose, HUD (Not Shown)
ITEM P/N DESCRIPTION
6 961366 Cougar/Puma First Stage, Whistle, 2216 psig
961372 Cougar/Puma First Stage, Warbling Whistle, 2216 psig
961371 Cougar/Puma First Stage, Panther Bell, 2216 psig
961359 Cougar/Puma First Stage, Whistle, 3000 psig
961364 Cougar/Puma First Stage, Warbling Whistle, 3000 psig
961363 Cougar/Puma First Stage, Panther Bell, 3000 psig
961356 Cougar/Puma First Stage, Whistle, 4500 psig
961358 Cougar/Puma First Stage, Warbling Whistle, 4500 psig
961357 Cougar/Puma First Stage, Panther Bell, 4500 psig
910099 Cougar/Puma First Stage, MARK 2 Bell, 2216 psig
910071 Cougar/Puma First Stage, MARK 2 Bell, 3000 psig
910001 Cougar/Puma First Stage, MARK 2 Bell, 4500 psig
968830 Panther First Stage, Whistle, 4500 psig
968831 Panther First Stage, Panther Bell, 4500 psig
968832* Panther First Stage, Warbling Whistle, 4500 psig
968836 Panther First Stage, Whistle, 2216 psig
968837 Panther First Stage, Panther Bell, 2216 psig
968838 Panther First Stage, Warbling Whistle, 2216 psig
968821 First Stage, Mark 2, 4500 psig
968822 First Stage, Mark 2, 2216 psig
7 965801 Cougar/Puma Backpack
965800* Panther Backpack

5
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
ITEM P/N DESCRIPTION
962600 COMPASS Integrated PASS Device
963820 COMPASS Buddy Breather Kit
963850 COMPASS SAR Attachment Kit
963702 COMPASS and Buddy Breather Kit
963703 COMPASS and Buddy Breather with SAR Attachment Kit
962700 DoublePASS Remote Alarm Module
ITEM P/N DESCRIPTION
Fit Testing Accessories, Qualitative (Cougar and Puma)
193140 IAA/Banana Oil Fit Test Kit
100100 Organic Vapor Cartridge, Box of 6 (For Use with P/N
193140 Fit Test Kit)
193138 Replacement IAA Solution, 1 oz.
Fit Testing Accessories, Quantitative (Cougar Only)
962920 Fit Test Kit, SCBA/APR Adapter (Requires the P/N
962900 Kit, APR Adapter)
962925 Fit Test Kit, Rell
105005 P100 Filters, Box of 10
962848 Probed Lens, TwentyTwenty Plus Facepiece
* Shown in Figure 1
IV. DESCRIPTION
The Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA provides the wearer
with respiratory protection in hazardous environments,
and may be used for entrance into and escape from
atmospheres that are immediately dangerous to life
or health (IDLH). The Panther is an NFPA-compliant
SCBA and may be used for re ghting. The Cougar
and Puma are industrial SCBAs and must not be used
in the presence of high heat or open ames.
NOTE
The Panther SCBA meets all requirements•
of the NFPA 1981 Standard, 2002 Edition,
Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Ap-
paratus for Fire and Emergency Services.
See NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Depart-•
ment Occupational Safety and Health Pro-
gram for proper use of SCBAs in the work
environment.
A. Backpack and Cylinder
The backpack consists of a lightweight contoured1.
polymer frame with a built-in carrying handle. The
cylinder is attached by a lightweight webbing-style
band. The Panther harness is made of Kevlar/No-
mex straps. The Cougar/Puma harness is made of
nylon straps. The chest-mounted pressure gauge
is mounted on the right shoulder strap, and the
intermediate pressure hose is routed over the left
shoulder. The gauge indicates the cylinder pres-
sure once the cylinder valve has been opened.
The chest-mounted pressure gauge is optional
for the Panther SCBA. It is included with the Cou-
gar and Puma SCBAs, but is optional for the Cou-
gar if a Heads-Up Display is installed.
The air cylinder is a composite construction with2.
an aluminum inner liner overwrapped by a nonme-
tallic ber, and has a maximum working pressure
of 2216 or 3000 psig (low pressure) in 30-minute
duration, or 4500 psig (high pressure) in 30-, 45-,
ITEM P/N DESCRIPTION
CYLINDER/VALVE ASSEMBLY
TwentyTwenty Plus Facepiece Accessories
962869 Neck Strap Kit
962900 Kit, APR Adapter
962260 Spectacles Kit
962266 Large Nose Cup Kit
962265 Medium Nose Cup Kit
962264 Small Nose Cup Kit
960038 Headnet™Kit
964171 Radio Communication System
964172 SmallTalk® Plus Voice Amplication System
964173 Radio Communication/SmallTalk Plus Voice Amplication
System
964165 Remote Push-to-Talk Kit
Pressure (psig) Duration
(minutes)
Wrap Material
916103 2216 30 Hoop Glass
915140 2216 30 none Aluminum
915170 2216 30 Full Glass
915165 4500 30 Hoop Glass
916173 4500 30 Full Glass
916140 4500 45 Full Glass
915182 4500 60 Full Glass
916123 3000 30 Full Carbon
917130 2216 30 Full Carbon
917131 4500 30 Full Carbon
917145 4500 45 Full Carbon
917160 4500 60 Full Carbon
General Accessories
940118 Protective Mask Bag
140096 Mask Wipes (100 ea.)
951015 Anti-fog Solution (1 oz.)
951016 Anti-fog Solution (16 oz.)
981806 Anti-fog Wipe
980200 Suit Pass-through Kit
946935 Cylinder Sleeve for LP Hoop-wrapped Cylinder
946937 Cylinder Sleeve for HP Hoop-wrapped Cylinder
941256 Cylinder Sleeve for LP Carbon Cylinder
941257 Cylinder Sleeve for 3000 psig Carbon Cylinder
941258 Cylinder Sleeve for HP 30 Minute Carbon Cylinder
941259 Cylinder Sleeve for HP 45 Minute Carbon Cylinder
941261 Cylinder Sleeve for HP 60 Minute Carbon Cylinder
968670 Chest Strap Kit
964867 Utility D-ring
930801/
02/04/
61/62/
64/70
Air Supply Hoses,3/8 inch
930810 Foster Coupler Kit
930820 Schrader Coupler Kit
930830 Hansen Coupler Kit
945007 Hansen Coupler Kit, Stainless Steel
961438 SuperCharge Fill Hose, Handwheel and Nipple, 2216
psig, 4 foot
961546 SuperCharge Fill Hose, Handwheel and Nipple, 2216
psig, 10 foot
961549 SuperCharge Fill Hose, Handwheel and Nipple, 2216
psig, 20 foot
961439 SuperCharge Fill Hose, Handwheel and Nipple, 3000
psig, 4 foot
961547 SuperCharge Fill Hose, Handwheel and Nipple, 3000
psig, 10 foot
961562 SuperCharge Fill Hose, Handwheel and Nipple, 3000
psig, 20 foot
961441 SuperCharge Fill Hose, Handwheel and Nipple, 4500
psig, 4 foot
961548 SuperCharge Fill Hose, Handwheel and Nipple, 4500
psig, 10 foot
961563 SuperCharge Fill Hose, Handwheel and Nipple, 4500
psig, 20 foot
965110 Over-the-Shoulder Buddy Breather Kit
965119 Over-the-Shoulder Buddy Breather Kit with Check Valve
(for use with P/N 965122 Kit)
965122 Air Line Adapter Kit

6
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
and 60-minute durations. An all-aluminum cylin-
der is available with a maximum working pres-
sure of 2216 psig only.
WARNING
The backpack must never be used as a •
rescue device attachment point.
ONLY grasp the cylinder valve hand-•
wheel to open or close the valve; DO
NOT pick up or carry a cylinder by
the handwheel, drop a cylinder on the
handwheel, or bump the handwheel,
as this may cause the cylinder valve
to inadvertently open, which may lead
to the cylinder becoming airborne un-
der the thrust of air released from the
valve, causing injury or death. ALWAYS
pick up and carry an air cylinder by the
cylinder body.
Failure to comply with this Warning may•
lead to personal injury, illness, or death.
B. First Stage Regulator
The rst stage regulator contains a pressure reducer,
audible alarm, and intermediate pressure hose.
Panther-style First Stage with Alarm3.
The rst stage lowers cylinder air pressure to a.
approximately 100 psig. The relief valve ac-
tivates to protect the system when the regu-
lated pressure exceeds 200 to 225 psig.
The Panther-style rst stage regulator is b.
equipped with either a whistle, warbling whis-
tle, or bell audible alarm. The low pressure
SCBA audible alarm activates at 510 to 598
psig (2216 psig system) or 690 to 810 psig
(3000 psig system); the high pressure SCBA
audible alarm activates at 1035 to 1215 psig
(4500 psig system). The audible alarm will
continue to sound until air pressure drops be-
low 200 psig.
MARK 2-style Bell Alarm4.
The rst stage regulator lowers cylinder air a.
pressure to an intermediate pressure of ap-
proximately 120 psig. An automatic backup
system maintains a safe ow of air in case of
a malfunction.
The audible alarm operates in two modes,b.
ringing at a slow rate when the quantity of air
in the cylinder has dropped to approximately
25% of capacity, and ringing rapidly when a
failure occurs in the rst stage system. The
low pressure SCBA bell alarm rings at 510
to 598 psig (2216 psig system) or 690 to 810
psig (3000 psig system); the high pressure
SCBA bell alarm rings at 1035 to 1215 psig
(4500 psig system); the bell alarm will con-
tinue ringing until air pressure drops below
200 psig.
C. Gauge/Heads-Up Display (HUD)
WARNING
The Heads-Up Display (HUD) may only•
be used with the 2520XX series Twen-
tyTwenty Plus facepiece.
If the low battery alert activates (am-•
ber LED on the backpack- mounted
transducer module ashes every two
seconds) during storage, or if the am-
ber LED on the backpack-mounted
transducer module does not ash at all
during storage, the battery must be re-
placed before using the SCBA.
Activation of the visual alarm (ash-•
ing red LED) portion of the HUD may
or may not coincide with the audible
alarm (i.e., bell, whistle, etc.) on the
SCBA. As soon as the rst alarm acti-
vates, PROCEED IMMEDIATELY TO A
SAFE AREA.
You must have binocular vision (vision •
from both eyes) to see and interpret
the display correctly. Your visual acu-
ity while wearing the facepiece must
meet the requirements set forth by the
authority having jurisdiction over your
operation and/or work place.
Failure to comply with this Warning may•
lead to personal injury, illness, or death.
NOTE
The Panther SCBA comes equipped with•
the Heads-Up Display (HUD).
The HUD is optional on the Cougar SCBA,•
but may only be used with the 2520XX se-
ries TwentyTwenty Plus facepiece.
The Puma SCBA cannot be equipped with•
a HUD.
The HUD is mounted on the second stage regulator.
When the second stage regulator is installed in the Pan-
ther TwentyTwenty Plus facepiece, the display can be
seen through openings in the facepiece nozzle cover.
When the cylinder valve is opened, the HUD will ac-
tivate automatically, and will indicate the air pressure
remaining in the cylinder. The display consists of four
green LEDs, representing Full, ¾, ½, and ¼. At full cyl-
inder pressure, all four LEDs are lit. As the air pressure
in the cylinder decreases, the LEDs turn off one at a
time, thereby indicating the air pressure status. When
the pressure drops below 50% of cylinder capacity, the
LED representing ½ cylinder capacity starts to ash,
and continues to ash for a short time (approximately
20 seconds) before returning to continuously lit. When
the pressure drops to ¼ (25%) of cylinder capacity, the
last green LED turns red and begins to ash, thereby
giving the user a visual alarm of low air pressure in ad-

7
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
dition to the audible alarm located on the rst stage reg-
ulator. On a 2216 psig SCBA, the ¼ LED will turn red
and begin to ash between 510 and 598 psig; on a 3000
psig SCBA, the ¼ LED will turn red and begin to ash
between 690 and 810 psig; on a 4500 psig SCBA, the ¼
LED will turn red and begin to ash between 1035 and
1215 psig. When the pressure drops to 10% of cylinder
capacity, the red LED begins to ash noticeably faster
and continues ashing in this manner until air pressure
drops below approximately 200 psig, at which time the
display will turn off. No lighted LEDs represents zero air
pressure.
An external red LED, mounted on the front of the HUD
module, warns others of the user’s low air status by
ashing at the same time the ¼ LED is ashing inside
the HUD module. The external red LED ashes notice-
ably faster when the pressure drops to 10% of cylinder
capacity.
A photodiode is mounted externally on the top of the
HUD module. It senses ambient light conditions and
adjusts the intensity of the green HUD LEDs to match
these conditions. If the ambient light is bright, the LEDs
are in bright mode. In no-light or low-light conditions,
the LEDs are in dim mode so that they are not distract-
ing to the user.
The transducer module on the backpack has a red LED
that acts as a battery status indicator. When the SCBA is
in storage (the cylinder valve is not opened), the amber
LED will ash once every 10 seconds to indicate a us-
able battery condition. The amber LED ashes every two
seconds to indicate a low battery condition, and it will
cease ashing altogether to indicate a dead battery.
WARNING
A Duracell Ultra 123 or Eveready En-•
ergizer EL 123A PBP must be used in
the HUD transducer module in order to
maintain the intrinsic safety certica-
tion of this product.
Failure to comply with this Warning•
may lead to personal injury, illness, or
death.
To replace the battery, remove the slotted battery cap
located on the top of the transducer module (located on
the side of the cylinder band) using a coin or a large,
at-blade screwdriver. Remove the old battery, install a
new battery in the orientation shown on the side of the
case, and replace the battery cap.
WARNING
If the low battery alert activates (am-•
ber LED on the backpack-mounted
transducer module ashes every two
seconds) during storage, or if the am-
ber LED on the backpack-mounted
transducer module does not ash at all
during storage, the battery must be re-
placed before using the SCBA.
If the low battery alert in the HUD ac-•
tivates during actual use (amber LED
at the lower right of the display ashes
once every second), the SCBA may
continue to be used. The battery must
be replaced before the next usage.
Failure to comply with this Warning•
may lead to personal injury, illness, or
death.
D. Chest-mounted Gauge
(Optional for Panther SCBA, and Optional for Cougar
SCBA if a HUD Is Installed)
The chest-mounted pressure gauge is mounted on the
right shoulder strap and may be swiveled 360° for easy
viewing. When the cylinder valve is opened, the gauge
indicates the air pressure remaining in the cylinder.
E. Second Stage Regulator
WARNING
An impact to the second stage regula-
tor when the cylinder valve is open may
inadvertently activate the First-Breath-
On mechanism, causing air to ow from
the regulator and diminishing the air in
the cylinder. Failure to comply with this
Warning may lead to personal injury, ill-
ness, or death.
The pressure-demand second stage regulator is
mounted on the facepiece by the SPERIAN AIR KLIC™
system. The mechanism automatically locks in place
when the regulator is pushed into the AIR KLIC, and
is detached when the release buttons are pressed. To
prevent inadvertent air ow, the regulator will not oper-
ate until the First-Breath-On mechanism is activated or
the manual override button on the front of the regulator
is pressed. The ow of air can be stopped by pressing
the shutoff button. A large red knob on the right side of
the regulator controls an adjustable bypass valve. Turn-
ing this knob counterclockwise provides a constant ow
of air.

8
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
F. Facepiece
WARNING
The SPERIAN Puma hood-style face-•
piece :
Must be worn in conjunction with an•
SCBA and used as specied in SPE-
RIAN’s instructions.
When donned and used with its SCBA,•
will reduce, but not eliminate, the inha-
lation of contaminants.
Does not protect against falling objects•
or projectiles.
Does not protect exposed areas of the•
body.
Must not be worn around open ames. •
It must not be used for structural re
ghting, underwater activities, or abra-
sive blasting.
Must not be used unless a satisfactory•
t is obtained.
Must not be reused if contaminated.•
Must not be altered or modied in any •
manner.
Requires that the wearer must assure•
that the neck seal is not compromised
by hair or clothing when in use.
Requires that after each use and/or•
cleaning and disinfecting, anti-fog solu-
tion (SPERIAN P/N 951015, 951016, or
981805) must be applied to the inside
of the lens. Failure to comply with this
Warning may lead to personal injury, ill-
ness, or death.
The Panther/Cougar SCBA will include a “hard” Twen-
tyTwenty®Plus facepiece. The Puma SCBA will include
a “soft” hood-style facepiece. The silicone TwentyT-
wenty Plus facepiece has a special wide lip sealing
surface and ve point silicone headstrap harness or
optional Headnet™harness. The lens is treated with
an abrasion-resistant coating on the inside and outside
surfaces of the lens. The nozzle houses a removable
nose cup, speaking diaphragm, and exhalation valve.
The AIR KLIC is threaded into the nozzle by a ratchet
mechanism to prevent leakage and provide a secure
mount for the second stage regulator.
The Puma hood-style facepiece is constructed of sev-
eral different components. The hood material is a multi-
layered specialty material specically designed for its
resistance to a wide range of chemicals. The hood
contains a exible lens made of clear, non-porous vi-
nyl. The primary neck seal of the hood-style facepiece
is constructed of neoprene rubber, a material used for
many conventional type facepieces. A secondary seal
is made inside the hood-style facepiece with a silicone
nose cup. The nose cup is available in small, medium,
or large size. The suspension system secures the hood-
style facepiece in place on the user. Anti-fog solution
(SPERIAN P/N 951015, 951016, or 981805) may be
applied to the inside of the lens. An AIR KLIC provides
a secure mount for the SCBA second stage regulator.
WARNING
The hood material, vinyl lens, neoprene
neck seal, and adhesive all may react
in a different manner when exposed to
chemicals or chemical mixtures. You
must verify that none of the compo-
nents of the hood will degrade against
the chemicals or mixtures to which it
may be exposed. Failure to comply with
this Warning may lead to personal in-
jury, illness, or death.
The hood-style facepiece is made of several compo-
nents, each having different reactions to chemical en-
vironments. It is vital to ensure that you have objective
evidence that the hood will be able to maintain its in-
tegrity against the expected chemical exposure during
operations. This can be accomplished by tests you con-
duct or by contacting SPERIAN for further information.
G. Universal Air Connection (UAC)
NOTE
The Panther SCBA comes equipped with the•
Universal Air Connection (UAC).
The UAC is optional on the Cougar and Puma•
SCBAs.
The Universal Air Connection (UAC) and ll hose (pur-
chased separately in the P/N 968950 Rapid Intervention
Kit) or SuperCharge ll hose (See Parts List, General Ac-
cessories, on page 5.) provide a means for lling SCBA
cylinders during a rescue. An attendant/rescue crew
member must assist with the cylinder lling.
The Universal Air Connection (UAC) is located on the
rst stage regulator body. The UAC is accompanied by
a relief valve located on the back of the rst stage regu-
lator, designed to vent air to atmosphere when the ll
pressure exceeds the cylinder service pressure in order
to prevent cylinder overpressurization. The UAC has a
dust plug which must be installed over the coupling at
all times before and after lling operations. The UAC
ll hose has the mating ll coupling. A directional ow
control piston is located in the quick disconnect cou-
pling to prevent air loss and hose whipping if the hose
is installed incorrectly. The quick disconnect coupling is
supplied with dust plugs which must be installed when
the ll hose is not in use.

9
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
WARNING
The UAC has a dust plug which must be•
installed over the coupling at all times
before and after lling operations.
DO NOT allow oil, grease, or other con-•
taminants to come in contact with the
quick disconnect couplings.
DO NOT use air other than breathing air,•
Grade D or better, conforming to CGA
G-7.1 Commodity Specication for Air.
The moisture content, expressed as
dewpoint, shall be maintained at -65°F
(-53.9°C) or lower, or less than 24.0
ppm by volume moisture content.
The SPERIAN UAC or UAC ll hose •
must ONLY be used to ll compressed
air cylinders. The SPERIAN UAC or
UAC ll hose must NEVER be used:
As a buddy breathing device.1.
For SCBA-to-SCBA lling.2.
To provide a continuous air supply.3.
Failure to comply with this Warning•
may lead to personal injury, illness, or
death.
V. UNPACKAGING
IMPORTANT—READ CAREFULLY
A. Warranty Card
NOTE
The warranty is void unless the warranty
card is returned to the factory within 30 days
of purchase.
Fill in the form with the required information.1.
Mail back the completed warranty registration2.
card immediately.
To comply with NIOSH, SPERIAN is required to3.
retain the completed warranty registration card.
Always refer to the equipment serial number if a4.
claim is made.
B. Remove the SCBA from the Packaging
Carrying case1.
Remove the carrying case from the box.a.
Lift both locking tabs on the case and open it.b.
Remove the facepiece from the case.c.
Unfasten the Velcro transportation fasteners.d.
Lift the SCBA from the case.e.
Carton packaging2.
Remove the facepiece from the box.a.
Remove the plastic transportation cradle fromb.
the box with the SCBA connected to it.
Cut both of the locking straps that secure thec.
SCBA to the transportation cradle.
Lift the SCBA from the cradle.d.
CAUTION
Exercise extreme care when identifying
SCBA components. Engraving may in-
duce stresses in materials that, over time,
could propagate cracks. Plastic labels,
dyno-labels, and stickers may burn.
VI. OPERATION
WARNING
Wear gloves when handling SCBAs that
have been stored in extreme tempera-
tures. Failure to comply with this Warn-
ing may lead to personal injury, illness,
or death.
NOTE
See NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire
Department Occupational Safety and Health
Program for proper use of SCBAs in the
work environment.
A. Donning
Remove the SCBA from its carrying case or1.
stored location.
Hand tighten the rst stage handwheel to the cyl-2.
inder valve outlet.
Ensure that the cylinder valve gauge reads in the3.
green (FULL) zone.
WARNING
Check the cylinder band latch each time;
set the cylinder band or strap to match
the cylinder. Failure to comply with this
Warning may lead to personal injury, ill-
ness, or death.
Check the latch on the cylinder band and ensure4.
that the cylinder is secure in the backpack.
Lay the harness out and straighten each strap.5.
All adjustable straps should be extended to maxi-
mum length.
There are two methods of donning the SCBA: 6.
coat-style, one arm at a time; and over the head.
Choice of the method of donning is a matter of
individual choice or organizational policy. Both
methods are described below.

10
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
Over the Heada.
Lean thei.
SCBA
cylinder
against
your legs,
cylinder
valve
resting on
the oor
and the
harness
spread to
each side.
Grasp theii.
cylinder
and back-
pack near
the center
as shown
in
Figure 2.
Lift theiii.
SCBA over
your head
as shown
in Figure
3, and
allow it to
slide onto
your back.
Coat Styleb.
Inserti.
your arm
through
one of the
shoulder
straps and
swing the
SCBA onto
your back.
See Figure
4.
Insert yourii.
other arm
through
the other
shoulder
strap.
Both Methods
Lean forward7.
and pull the harness adjustment straps until the
back support rests in the small of your back. See
Figure 5.
NOTE
If the harness adjustment straps are properly
tightened, the weight of the SCBA will be car-
ried on the hips instead of the shoulders. If
the harness adjustment straps restrict move-
ment, readjust.
Take up the8.
slack with
the harness
adjustment
straps. See
Figure 5.
Fasten the9.
waist belt
buckle. Pull
forward on the
waist straps as
shown in Figure
6, and tighten
until very snug.
Readjust10.
the harness
adjustment straps so that the weight of the
SCBA is distributed properly on the hips. Do
not overtighten.
Figure 6. Tighten Waist Strap
Tighten the AIR KLIC (the adapter into which11.
the second stage regulator is inserted) in the
facepiece by turning it clockwise.
Verify that the AIR KLIC is secured by trying to12.
turn it counterclockwise.
WARNING
The AIR KLIC must be held securely in
the nozzle by the ratchet mechanism.
Failure to comply with this Warning
may lead to personal injury, illness, or
death.
Don the facepiece as follows:13.
TwentyTwenty Plus Facepiece:
There are two methods, depending upon which
head harness is used, to secure the TwentyTwen-
ty®Plus facepiece to the user. Both methods are
described below.
Standard silicone headstrap:a.
Fully loosen the headstraps.i.
If your SCBAis equipped with a neck strap,ii.
place the neck strap over your head.
Figure 2. Grasp Cylinder
Figure 4. Coat Style
Figure 3. Over Head
Figure 5. Lean Foward

11
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
Grasp the lower headstraps as shown iniii.
Figure 7.
Figure 7. Grasp Lower Headsraps
Place your chin in the chin cup and pulliv.
the straps over your head.
Center the facepiece and atten the v.
headstrap hub n the back of your head.
Tighten the two lower straps. Do notvi.
overtighten.
Tighten the temple straps (Figure 8), thenvii.
the top strap, until all the headstraps lay
at on your head.
Figure 8. Tighten Upper Headsraps
Perform a leak check as described below.viii.
NOTE
When properly adjusted, the headstrap hub
should be centered on the back of your head,
and the lower straps should be below your
ears. Make sure that your chin is properly re-
cessed in the chin cup.
Optional Headnetb. ™
Inspectioni.
Ensure that the three locking fabric straps
located across the forehead are fully in-
serted into their slots in the rims and that
the locking aps prevent the straps from
pulling out of the slots.
Place your chin in the chin cup, pull theii.
Headnet over your head, and tighten by
pulling evenly on the upper and lower
straps. See Figure 9.
Figure 9. Adjust Headnet
Center the facepiece and atten the iii.
Headnet with a wiping motion toward the
back of your head.
Retighten the elastic adjustment straps.iv.
Do not overtighten.
Perform a leak check as described below.v.
NOTE
When properly adjusted, the Headnet should
be centered on the back of your head, and
the lower straps should be below your ears.
Puma Hood-style Facepiece:
WARNING
The wearer must assure that the neck
seal is not compromised by hair or
clothing when in use. Failure to comply
with this Warning may lead to personal
injury, illness, or death.
Fully loosen the suspension straps.a.
Grasp the hood by the neck seal and pull theb.
neck seal over your head.
Position the nose cup on your face, then simul-c.
taneously tighten the two suspension straps.

12
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
B. Leak Check—TwentyTwenty Plus Facepiece
WARNING
Do not use this SCBA in a contaminated
atmosphere if you do not obtain a sat-
isfactory seal during the leak check. If
a seal was not obtained, reposition the
facepiece, check the straps, and per-
form the leak check again. Failure to
obtain a satisfactory seal could allow
contaminants to leak into the facepiece,
causing illness or death.
Place the palm of your hand over the AIR KLIC as1.
shown in Figure 10.
Figure 10. Leak Check
Inhale and hold your breath for a few seconds.2.
The facepiece should collapse on your face with-
out leaking.
If the facepiece leaks, reposition, check the3.
straps, and repeat the leak check.
C. Leak Check—Puma Hood
Don and pressurize the Puma SCBA.1.
Hold your breath for several seconds and listen2.
for audible leaks.
D. Exhalation Valve Test—TwentyTwenty Plus
Facepiece and Hood
CAUTION
Do not use this SCBA in a contaminated
atmosphere if the exhalation valve is not
working properly. Failure to verify that
the exhalation valve is functioning prop-
erly could result in difculty in exhaling
from the facepiece or hood.
To test the exhalation valve, take a deep breath1.
and hold it. Cover the AIR KLIC again as shown
in Figure 10 and exhale.
If the exhalation valve is stuck, it will be difcult 2.
to exhale. If the exhalation valve is stuck, exhale
sharply to open the valve. If the valve still doesn’t
open, clean the valve per the instructions in the
repair table on page 29 of this manual.
E. Pressurization
Fully depress the shutoff button on the second1.
stage regulator.
Verify that the red bypass knob is in the closed2.
position.
Fully open the cylinder valve (Figure 11). In order3.
to fully open the cylinder valve, the handle must
be rotated at least one complete revolution (360°
minimum).
Figure 11. Open Cylinder Valve
WARNING
An impact to the second stage regula-
tor when the cylinder valve is open may
inadvertently activate the First-Breath-
On mechanism, causing air to ow from
the regulator and diminishing the air in
the cylinder. Failure to comply with this
Warning may lead to personal injury, ill-
ness, or death.
If equipped with a chest-mounted pressurea.
gauge, ensure the needle reads in the green
(FULL) zone.
If equipped with a Heads-Up Display (HUD),b.
check the HUD to ensure that the display
reads full cylinder pressure (all four green
LEDs lighted).

13
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
WARNING
The audible alarm must sound and
the HUD LEDs must ash in sequence
as the system is pressurized. If either
alarm fails to activate (sound and ash)
as you pressurize your SCBA, DO NOT
USE the SCBA. Failure of either alarm
could result in a failure to realize that
the SCBA is near the end of its service
life, resulting in death or injury.
Engage the cylinder valve handle locking sleeve4.
(if so equipped) by turning it clockwise to prevent
accidental valve closure.
Remove the second stage regulator from the5.
waist strap regulator holder by pressing the two
release buttons.
NOTE
The second stage regulator release buttons
must be pressed simultaneously to remove
the regulator from the holder.
Insert the regulator into the AIR KLIC as follows:6.
If the SCBA is equipped with a Heads-up Dis-a.
play (HUD), insert the regulator into the AIR
KLIC on the facepiece (Figure 12) such that
the HUD display is positioned on top, and
press rmly until you hear both release but-
tons snap into place. If the regulator does
not snap into place, rotate the regulator while
pressing rmly until the HUD guides itself into
the proper position and the regulator snaps
into place.
If the SCBA is not equipped with a HUD, in-b.
sert the regulator into the AIR KLIC on the
facepiece/hood (Figure 12) and press rmly
until you hear both release buttons snap into
place.
Figure 12. Insert Regulator
NOTE
A CLICK will be heard when each AIR KLIC•
button is properly engaged.
Do not press the release buttons when in-•
stalling the regulator.
WARNING
Both release buttons must be properly
engaged. Rotate and tug the regulator
to ensure that both release buttons are
properly engaged in the AIR KLIC. Do
not push the release buttons while veri-
fying the engagement of the regulator.
Do not press the release buttons unless
you intend to remove the regulator from
the facepiece. Pressing either release
button during or after installation onto
the facepiece could result in inadver-
tent regulator disengagement, causing
death or injury.
Take a sharp, deep breath to activate the regulator.7.
Take several breaths to check the ow of air.8.
Quickly open and close the bypass valve to ensure9.
that it is operating properly.
WARNING
The SCBA has a rated service duration
of 30, 45, or 60 minutes based on the re-
quirements of the Code of Federal Reg-
ulations, Title 42, Part 84, Subpart H.
Actual service duration will frequently
be less than the rated time, depending
on the physical condition and exertion
level of the user, initial cylinder pres-
sure, and ambient temperature. When
either low air alarm begins sounding,
PROCEED IMMEDIATELY TO A SAFE
AREA. Failure to comply with this Warn-
ing may lead to personal injury, illness,
or death.

14
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
WARNING─Continued
The relief valve on the rst stage reg-•
ulator is factory set. Tampering with
the relief valve may cause the SCBA
to malfunction or may result in a de-
crease in service life.
If at any time during lling an air leak •
is detected or suspected in the SCBA
or the ll system, disconnect the ll
whip from the SCBA. Close the cylin-
der valve on the ll cylinder and vent
the air from the ll whip. Remove the
SCBA from service for inspection and
repair by a SPERIAN-certied techni-
cian before use.
The dust covers on the UAC coupling •
and the UAC ll whip must be installed
at all times unless the SCBA cylinder
is being lled via the UAC.
Failure to comply with this Warning may•
lead to personal injury, illness, or death.
NOTE
Air venting from the PRV is extremely loud.
Open the cylinder valve on the UAC ll system 1.
(supply cylinder). The ll whip is now pressurized.
Remove the dust cover from the UAC Rapid In-2.
tervention Kit ll whip.
Remove the dust cover from the UAC coupling3.
on the SCBA.
Connect the ll whip to the UAC coupling on the 4.
SCBA. Push the female coupling on the ll whip
until a click is heard. The cylinder will start lling
as soon as the ll whip coupling engages into the
UAC coupling on the SCBA.
Filling is complete when the pressure in the SCBA5.
cylinder and in the ll cylinder are equalized. This
will take place in approximately one minute.
NOTE
In most cases, the cylinder will not be lled to
full service pressure. The resulting service life
of the SCBA will be reduced.
Disconnect the ll whip coupling by pulling back 6.
on the outer locking sleeve. An audible hissing or
popping will be heard when the ll whip is discon-
nected. When this occurs, coupling separation
has been achieved.
Replace the dust cover on the SCBA UAC7.
coupling.
F. Universal Air Connection (UAC) Operation
The SPERIAN UAC is intended to be used with the P/N
968950 UAC Rapid Intervention Kit, purchased sepa-
rately. The P/N 968950 UAC Rapid Intervention Kit is
equipped with a high pressure ll whip that is compat-
ible with the UAC coupling on the rst stage regulator.
The P/N 968950 UAC Rapid Intervention Kit is capable
of accommodating a 60-minute high pressure cylinder.
Although it is possible to add air to a SPERIAN SCBA
via the UAC system while the SCBA is being worn,
SPERIAN recommends that the cylinder be placed in a
container or in a location which is designed to restrain
fragments in the event of a component failure during
lling. Filling an SCBA cylinder while the SCBA is be-
ing worn should only be done when the circumstances
justify exposing the SCBA user to the added risk associ-
ated with the ll procedure.
First stage regulators equipped with the UAC have a
pressure relief valve (PRV) incorporated into the rst
stage regulator housing. The PRV is designed to vent
air to atmosphere when the ll pressure exceeds the
service pressure of the cylinder. If a high pressure
(4500 psig) ll (supply) cylinder is used on a 2216 psig
or 3000 psig SCBA, the PRV may open and vent air to
atmosphere. The PRV will reset (close) at a pressure
below the service pressure of the SCBA.
WARNING
NEVER use the Universal Air Connec-•
tion (UAC) for routine lling of SCBA
cylinders. The UAC is intended to be
used for cylinder lling during rescue
operations only.
Never use the SPERIAN UAC to ll an •
SCBA cylinder while the SCBA is be-
ing worn unless there is a compelling
reason to assume the risk of injury if
there is a component failure during
the ll process.
Never use the SPERIAN UAC to ll an •
SCBA air cylinder while the SCBA is
being worn if the SCBA or the cylinder
is suspected of having been dropped,
exposed to direct ame impingement,
or damaged in any way.
The purity of the UAC air source must•
meet the requirements set forth in the
Compressed Gas Association Com-
modity Specication for Air, G-7.1,
Type 1, Grade D, with a dewpoint not
greater than -65°F (-53.9°C), or less
than 24 ppm by volume.

15
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
Close the cylinder valve on the ll system and 8.
vent the air from the ll whip. Replace the dust
cover on the ll whip.
G. Emergency Operation
PROBLEM: Restricted or interrupted air ow1.
Open the bypass valve by turning the red knoba.
on the second stage counterclockwise until the
desired constant air ow is achieved.
WARNING
Activating the bypass valve rapidly de-
pletes your air supply. Immediately exit
to a safe area. Failure to comply with
this Warning may lead to personal in-
jury, illness, or death.
IMMEDIATELY exit to a safe area.b.
Have the SCBA inspected and/or repaired byc.
a certied repair technician before reuse.
PROBLEM: First-Breath-On failure2.
Press the manual override button on the fronta.
of the regulator to start air ow.
IMMEDIATELY exit to a safe area.b.
Have the SCBA inspected and/or repaired byc.
a certied repair technician before reuse.
PROBLEM: Free ow3.
If the regulator will not shut off (free ow) dur-a.
ing extremely heavy breathing, exhale force-
fully. The regulator should return to normal
ow.
If the free ow continues, open and close the b.
bypass once.
If the problem persists, IMMEDIATELY exit toc.
a safe area.
Have the SCBA inspected and/or repaired byd.
a certied repair technician before reuse.
PROBLEM: First stage overpressurization relief 4.
valve operates
If the cylinder valve incorporates a lockinga.
sleeve, disengage it by pushing in and turning
it counterclockwise as far as it will go.
Regulate the amount of air ow by manually b.
throttling the cylinder valve.
Immediately exit to a safe area.c.
Have the SCBA inspected and/or repaired byd.
a certied repair technician before reuse.
PROBLEM: Second stage regulator accidentally 5.
disengages from facepiece
Hold your breath. Locate the regulator usinga.
the regulator supply hose (the regulator will be
free-owing), and immediately insert the regu-
lator into the facepiece. Resume breathing.
Push the regulator rmly into the facepiece. b.
Ensure that both AIR KLIC buttons are en-
gaged.
Immediately exit to a safe area.c.
Have the SCBA inspected and/or repaired byd.
a certied repair technician before reuse.
H. Dofng
WARNING
Doff the SCBA only in a safe area. Failure
to comply with this Warning may lead to
personal injury, illness, or death.
Press the second stage regulator shutoff button.1.
Press the two release buttons and remove the2.
regulator from the facepiece.
Disengage the cylinder valve locking sleeve (if so3.
equipped) by pushing in and turning it counter-
clockwise.
Close the cylinder valve.4.
Press the override button or open the bypass5.
valve on the second stage regulator to vent air
from the SCBA.
Close the bypass valve.6.
WARNING
The SCBA must be stored in a cool, dry
location with the cylinder valve closed
and the air pressure vented from the
system. Storing an SCBA with the cyl-
inder valve open and the system under
pressure can result in damage to elas-
tomeric materials in the regulator, par-
ticularly if the SCBA is stored at tem-
peratures above 160°F (71°C). Damage
resulting from improper storage could
result in reduced ow or even stop ow
conditions, resulting in injury, illness,
or death.
Push the second stage regulator into the waist-7.
strap-mounted regulator holder until it clicks.
Place your thumbs under the headstrap buckles,8.
loosen the straps, and remove the facepiece.
Clip the D-ring from the top facepiece buckle onto9.
the snap hook on the shoulder strap.
Unsnap the waist strap and optional chest strap,10.
loosen the shoulder straps, and remove the
SCBA.

16
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
Prepare the SCBA for storage.11.
I. Cylinder Removal and Reinstallation
Removal1.
Close the cylinder valve by rotating the shutoffa.
handwheel clockwise.
Relieve the hose pressure by opening the sec-b.
ond stage regulator bypass valve (red knob)
and listening for system depressurization.
Remove the rst stage regulator from the cyl-c.
inder valve by rotating the red or green rst
stage handwheel counterclockwise.
WARNING
Use extreme care when changing cylin-
ders. DO NOT allow moisture or ice to
enter the regulator system. Moisture or
ice entering the regulator system may
cause the SCBA to freeze up, restrict-
ing or stopping air ow to the user, re-
sulting in death or injury.
ONLY grasp the cylinder valve hand-•
wheel to open or close the valve; DO
NOT pick up or carry a cylinder by
the handwheel, drop a cylinder on the
handwheel, or bump the handwheel,
as this may cause the cylinder valve
to inadvertently open, which may lead
to the cylinder becoming airborne
under the thrust of air released from
the valve, causing injury or death. AL-
WAYS pick up and carry an air cylin-
der by the cylinder body.
Failure to comply with this Warning may•
lead to personal injury, illness, or death.
Prevent the cylinder from accidentally fallingd.
by placing a free hand on the top of the cyl-
inder.
Remove the tank band as follows:e.
Loosen the tank band latch by ipping the i.
cam-over buckle toward the user.
Remove the tank band buckle from theii.
spring-catch mechanism by grasping and
rotating the tank band buckle as shown in
Figures 13 and 14.
Rotate the cylinder 90° so that the cylinderf.
valve handwheel faces away from the user.
Remove the cylinder by allowing it to rotateg.
around the tank bracket to a horizontal orien-
tation. Lift the cylinder valve free.
Place the cylinder in a safe location and pre-h.
vent it from accidentally rolling into hazards
that may damage the exterior of the cylinder.
Figure 13. Flip the Buckle
Latch Figure 14. Rotate the
Buckle Upward
Installation2.
WARNING
Use proper lifting techniques to lift•
the fully charged cylinder to prevent
back injury.
ONLY grasp the cylinder valve hand-•
wheel to open or close the valve; DO
NOT pick up or carry a cylinder by
the handwheel, drop a cylinder on the
handwheel, or bump the handwheel,
as this may cause the cylinder valve
to inadvertently open, which may lead
to the cylinder becoming airborne
under the thrust of air released from
the valve, causing injury or death. AL-
WAYS pick up and carry an air cylin-
der by the cylinder body.
Failure to comply with this Warning may•
lead to personal injury, illness, or death.
Place cylinder valve handwheel into the tanka.
bracket.
CAUTION
Avoid valve damage by preventing the
cylinder valve threads from becoming
damaged.
Lift up until the cylinder rests against the back-b.
pack frame.
Rotate the cylinder until the cylinder valvec.
threads face to the user’s left side.
Adjust the cylinder band to prevent the cylin-d.
der from falling off the backpack as follows:
Changing to the same diameter cylinder:i.
Place the metal bail of the tank banda.
buckle into the spring-catch mechanism
by pushing down on the spring. The bail
should slide on the spring until it is cen-
tered underneath the catch.

17
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
J. Transportation
Recommended methods of transportation include the
following:
Mounting bracket1.
Brackets inside a re apparatus storage com-a.
partment or integrated into a seat should at-
tach to the cylinder only. Securely mount the
SCBA and verify that the bracket does not
straddle or interfere with the tank band, tank
band latch, cylinder valve, backpack, or rst
stage regulator.
The SCBA mounting position should preventb.
any part of the SCBA from being slammed in a
door or door hinge.
SCBA hard case or soft bag for transportation in2.
a car trunk or truck bed.
If the above methods are not achievable, secure3.
the SCBA to prevent rolling, sliding, or bouncing,
which could cause damage.
K. Interface Considerations
Protective hoods, if used, must be donned af-1.
ter a satisfactory facepiece t check has been
achieved.
Ensure that the audible and visual low air alarms2.
and PASS alarm (if used) remain functional by
not allowing turnout gear, ice, re ghting equip-
ment, or tools to cover these devices.
Do not mount other re ghting tools such that 3.
they interfere with the function of the SCBA.
VII. CYLINDER FILLING AND SAFETY
WARNING
You must read and understand all•
warnings and instructions provided
on the cylinder DOT warning label and
in instruction manuals before using
the cylinder/valve assembly.
Only trained personnel may store,•
ll, service, maintain, handle, use, or
dispose of cylinders used with this
SCBA. Follow the guidelines of the
Compressed Gas Association (CGA)
pamphlets P-1, C-1, C-2, C-6, C-6.1,
C-6.2, G-7, and G-7.1, as appropriate.
Always follow established safety pre-
cautions when recharging cylinders.
Do not alter cylinders used with this•
SCBA.
Fill only to the specied service pres-•
sure. Do not overll.
Do not ll a leaking cylinder. Depres-•
surize immediately.
Do not tamper with the safety pressure•
relief device. Rapid depressurization
Tighten the tank band by ipping the b.
cam-over buckle away from the user.
Changing to aii. different diameter cylinder:
Adjusting the tank band for a smaller di-a.
ameter cylinder:
Place the metal bail of the tank band1.
buckle into the spring-catch mecha-
nism by pushing down on the spring.
The bail should slide on the spring un-
til it is centered underneath the catch.
Adjust the slack in the tank band by2.
pulling the outermost tank band strap
through the buckle until the inner strap
is almost snug. Readjust as necessary.
Adjust the slack in the outer strap by3.
sliding the double bar D-ring away
from the tank band buckle. The out-
er strap should lay at on the inner
strap.
CAUTION
Avoid excessive cylinder rattle or the
potential for the cylinder to fall out from
adjusting the tank strap too loose.
Tighten the tank band by ipping the 4.
cam-over buckle away from the user.
Adjusting the tank band strap for a largerb.
diameter cylinder:
Slide the double bar D-ring toward the1.
tank band buckle.
Pull the excess strap through the2.
buckle so that the inner and outer
straps are the same length.
Place the metal bail of the tank band3.
buckle into the spring-catch mecha-
nism by pushing down on the spring.
The bail should slide on the spring un-
til it is centered underneath the catch.
CAUTION
Avoid excessive cylinder rattle or the
potential for the cylinder to fall out from
adjusting the tank strap too loose.
Tighten the tank band by ipping the 4.
cam-over buckle away from the user.
WARNING
Check the cylinder latch each time the
cylinder is installed. Set the cylinder
band or strap to match the cylinder. Fail-
ure to comply with this Warning may
lead to personal injury, illness, or death.

18
Panther/Cougar/Puma SCBA Operation Manual
A. Inspection
After each use and prior to recharging, each air cylinder
shall be subjected to a thorough visual inspection:
WARNING
Do not ll any cylinders that are dam-•
aged, you suspect may be damaged
or unsafe, or are out of conformance
with applicable hydrostatic test dates.
Damaged cylinders must be inspect-
ed by an approved hydrostatic test fa-
cility and repaired as required before
being lled.
DO NOT over-torque the air cylinder •
valves. ALWAYS verify that the hydro-
static test facility performing your cyl-
inder testing DOES NOT over-torque
the cylinder valves when they rein-
stall them. SPERIAN SCBA air cylin-
der valves must be tightened with a
torque wrench to a torque value of 70
ft-lb. The torque wrench must have a
range of no more than 0 to 175 ft-lb
and an accuracy of at least ±4 ft-lb (a
variation of no more than 6%).
Failure to comply with this Warning may•
lead to personal injury, illness, or death.
Steel and Aluminum Cylinders1.
Ensure that no more than ve years have elapsed
since the last hydrostatic test has been performed,
as indicated by the most recent date stamped into
the cylinder shoulder. Inspect the exterior of the
cylinder for dents, gouges, or rusted areas, and
evidence of exposure to high temperature such
as darkened or blistered paint, charred decals,
melted or distorted gauge lens, etc.
Composite Cylinders2.
Ensure that no more than three years have
elapsed since the last hydrostatic test has been
performed on berglass or Kevlar cylinders, and
no more than ve years have elapsed since the
last hydrostatic test has been performed on car-
bon cylinders; and that the cylinder is less than
15 years old. Inspect the exterior of the cylinder
for dents, gouges, or cuts which have penetrat-
ed and caused separation or unraveling of the
composite overwrap. Watch for evidence of ex-
posure to high temperature, such as darkened
or blistered paint, charred overwrap or decals,
melted or distorted gauge lens, etc.
Cylinder Valve3.
The cylinder valve should also be examined for
obvious external damage such as a deformed
handwheel, inaccurate or inoperative pressure
indicator, damaged threads on the outlet connec-
tion, or other evidence of impact or exposure to
extreme heat. If internal contamination is sus-
WARNING—Continued
when the safety pressure relief device
activates will cause excessive noise.
During rapid depressurization, cylin-
ders may become ballistic and cause
injury. Stay clear of cylinders when
the safety relief valve is activated.
Do not ll the cylinder if unraveling or •
charring of composite bers occurs.
Do not ll or use the cylinder if you •
have any doubt about its suitability
for recharge. Return it to a certied
hydrostatic test facility.
Do not expose cylinders used with this•
SCBA to open ame or heat sources
which may heat the cylinder to 350°F.
Cylinders damaged by re or heated
to 350°F must be destroyed.
Repainted or renished cylinders must •
be hydrostatically tested before reuse.
DO NOT over-torque the air cylinder •
valves. ALWAYS verify that the hydro-
static test facility performing your cyl-
inder testing DOES NOT over-torque
the cylinder valves when they rein-
stall them. SPERIAN SCBA air cylin-
der valves must be tightened with a
torque wrench to a torque value of 70
ft-lb. The torque wrench must have a
range of no more than 0 to 175 ft-lb
and an accuracy of at least ±4 ft-lb (a
variation of no more than 6%).
Do not ll a berglass or Kevlar com-•
posite cylinder if it is not marked as
being hydrostatically tested within
three (3) years. Do not ll a carbon
composite cylinder or an aluminum
cylinder if it is not marked as being
hydrostatically tested within ve (5)
years.
Do not ll or use composite cylinders •
older than 15 years. Depressurize and
destroy these cylinders. Call SPERIAN
before condemning 15 year old car-
bon ber cylinders. An extension of
service life beyond 15 years may have
been approved since the cylinder was
manufactured.
Inspect cylinders before each lling. •
Remove cylinders from service which
have cuts, gouges, dings, bulges, cor-
rosion, etc. A special internal and ex-
ternal visual inspection of cylinders
must be completed at least every hy-
drostatic test. Follow the guidelines of
CGA 6.2.
Do not ll with oxygen.•
Do not use caustic paint strippers or•
corrosive cleaners.
Do not remove, obscure, or alter any •
labels on SCBA cylinders.
Failure to comply with this Warning may•
lead to personal injury, illness, or death.