Maintenance

To get the most out of your SeaSucker product, inspect it regularly and store it with the vacuum mounts’ protective covers on. Beyond regular inspections, make sure to clean your vacuum mounts and pumps.

Before each use, clean the vacuum mount with a sponge or soft cloth and water. Every couple of months (or if your rack comes into contact with salt water or large amounts of dirt), clean the vacuum mount pads and vacuum pumps with mild dish soap.

When cleaning the mounts, do not use harsh solvents or abrasive cleaning pads. Make sure there is no dirt or debris on the edge of the vacuum pad. Inspect the edge for stiffness, cracks, roughness, or cuts – a cut will allow air to leak under the mount and will prevent your SeaSucker from holding vacuum. A damaged vacuum pad should be replaced.

To clean the pumps, pull the plunger straight out of the pump cylinder. Clean the inside of the cylinder with dish soap and a soft cloth or paper towel. Make sure to dry out the cylinder – water left in the cylinder can cause the pump to make a popping noise when pumped and may interfere with the check-valve function of the pump. The plunger should be wiped clean and the black rubber gasket at the tip of the plunger should be re-lubed with a thin layer of silicone-based gel lubricant, such as the Lube Tube that came with your rack. After cleaning, push the plunger back into the cylinder and pump it several times to seat it properly and distribute the lubricant.