DISCLAIMER
Do not carry out any work if you are unsure. Diving equipment is life support equipment. If you are in any doubt please visit your local dive shop (LDS).
Furthermore Suunto strongly advises against changing the battery yourself and that it should be done professionally. If you change your own battery and the computer fails or floods due to a lack of pressure test then you are doing so at your own risk.
I’ve seen the question “why do I have to pay £40 to fit a £2 battery? Is this something I can do myself?” asked numerous times on forums and social media, and the answer is simply yes. So when the time came to change one on my wife’s computer I thought it was time I wrote a blog about how it’s done.
Fitting the battery
Caveat. The method I am about to describe works with a Suunto Vyper, and will also work for the Vytec, Gekko and other similar dive computers. The method of battery changing on other models may vary.
You will need the following:
1. 2450 battery.
2. Replacement O-ring (optional but kits available on eBay often come with one, and possibly a battery cover and holder).
3. Needle nose pliers or similar.
4. Small flat thin screwdriver (optional).
5. O-ring grease (optional).
Remove the strap pins by using a small flat headed screwdriver or your fingernail nail by placing it between the strap and the computer, and then pushing it towards the centre of the strap. The strap will fall away.
Note. Some force may be required.
At this point my preference is to initially place the computer and mount into warm water to make the plastic more flexible.
Remove the existing strap rubber cover if applicable. Any plastic screen protector can remain on. If you are unsure how you should be able to find out how in the manual.
Note. Some force may be required.
The battery cover opens by turning it anti-clockwise a few millimetres. This is achieved by placing your needle nose pliers into the two tiny holes and rotate the cover.
Remove the cover, see-thru lid, battery holder, and then finally the battery. Ensure that you make a note of where and how all the parts go as it could result in an underwater flood.
Swap out the battery and re-assemble, taking particular note of the O-ring. Ensure it is laid flat and when replacing the cover it does not pinch. If you decide to use grease ensure it is used sparingly and ensure that the O-ring is free of dust and lint.
Once you’ve checked that it works and fires up remember to reset the date & time. Lastly replace the strap and cover, or alternatively why not mount it in a Bungee Mount instead?
The boring bit!
All opinions expressed in my articles are my own and may differ to other instructor’s and agency guidelines; by no means are they wrong and I would not wish to disrepute any of them. This article is for information only and should not replace proper training.
Safe diving!
Timothy Gort
BSAC, PADI & SDI/TDI diver training
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