Closing a Mask Purge?

[MAK52580]

I currently have a mask that I love. It has a great mask strap, I love the view that it gives me and is unbreakable. However, there is one problem that I have. It has a purge that broke and now leaks constantly. Normally this is no big deal, I just clear it and keep moving, but it would just be more enjoyable if it did not allow water in at all. So my question is, is there any way to artificially close the purge valve with some substance, glue, etc. so that it does not purge at all? If anyone has any ideas, I am open to them all.

Marc

 

[Boogie711]

I'd put some clear silicone caulk on the outside, under the purge. Just stick a gob on there and carefully mush it up into the purge valve. Should plug it up real good, but I don't know if I'd trust the integrity of it for a serious dive. If you're just farting around at recreational depths, it should be ok, but don't go diving the Doria with it or anything.

 

[MAK52580]

That was my concern. I had thought of using silicone caulk, but was not sure how it or any other substance would stand up to increased pressure. I am sure it would just start to leak again, which leaves me back at the beginning...

 

[Bob3]

I'm not sure of the design of your purge valve, I used to pop mine out & put a layer of electrical tape over it & trim the edges of the tape with a razor blade, & then pop the valve back in.
If your valve has the "standard" mushroom valve/ you can very often pick up the repair part at your local shop.
They'll probably charge you a buck or 2 for the 50 cent part.
Silicone should work too, the stuff will always be at ambient pressure, depth will not affect it.

 

[nyresq]

just aquaseal the old valve in place, the old valve will provide any support to layer it in and hold it in place. Pressure is equal on bothe side give or take a pound if blowing out or sucking in...

 

[Hallmac]

Works very well.

Hallmac

 

[jplacson]

Well, this is just a thought... but I don't think increasing pressure should be that big a deal... the area inside your mask is not a vacuum.

Whenever you clear your mask, you equalize the pressure inside the mask to the external water pressure.

 

[amc717]

Just a thought. Can't you buy the same kind of mask without the purge?

 

[MAK52580]

Unfortunately , I can't buy it without the purge, its standard. I knew that the pressure inside is equal to the outside, but was not sure if the pressure would cause whatever I use to decrease in size and allow water in at depth. I know that at 30 fsw it would not be a problem, but at 130 fsw it could be. I just wanted to gauge everyone's opinion or find out if anyone else has done it.

 

[waterwraith]

I would check to see if your dive shop can replace the purge I have an oceanmaster and the purge is supposed to be replacable. In fact it is under waranty for three years I believe.