How to Clean Bellows on a Mallard - Step-by-Step Guide

Materials Needed:

• White vinegar
• Water
• Five-liter container or measuring utensil
• Absorber hose
• Bellows rod
• Clamp

Note: It's recommended to perform this cleaning process after each case or at the end of the day.

1. Mix Vinegar and Water Solution:

• Prepare a cleaning solution using white vinegar and water in a ratio of three parts water to one part vinegar. You'll need a total of five liters of this solution.

2. Prepare the Bellows:

• Remove the hose at the elbow of the absorber to access the bellows for cleaning.

3. Pour the Solution and Agitate:

• Pour the prepared vinegar and water solution into the hose opening.
• Reattach the hose elbow.
• Gently agitate the bellows by moving them up and down to distribute the solution inside. Be cautious not to be too aggressive to avoid damaging the bellows.
• Agitate the bellows for about a minute or two.

4. Let It Soak:

• Allow the bellows to soak in the solution for approximately 20 minutes. This soak time is essential for thorough cleaning.

5. Drain the Solution:

• Remove the hose from the absorber elbow and allow the solution to drain into a suitable location.

6. Repeat Agitation and Draining:

• Add another five liters of clean water to the bellows through the hose opening.
• Agitate the bellows gently again for a minute or two.
• Drain the water out by removing the hose from the elbow.

7. Secure Bellows for Drying:

• Raise the bellows three-quarters of the way to avoid compressing the gas balance valves.
• Attach a clamp to the bellows rod to hold it in the raised position.
• Slide the clamp over the rod and tighten it down to secure the bellows in the drying position.

8. Allow Drying Overnight:

• Position the hose to allow proper drainage, preferably towards a drain or suitable location.
• Leave the bellows in the drying position with the clamp attached overnight. This will allow the bellows to air out and completely dry.

9. Remove Clamp and Ready for Use:

• In the morning, remove the clamp from the bellows rod.
• Make sure the clamp is stored away and doesn't interfere with the equipment.
• The bellows are now clean and ready for use.

10. Regular Maintenance:

• It's important to repeat this cleaning process regularly, ideally once a week. If used less frequently, cleaning once a month should be sufficient to maintain proper hygiene and ensure the bellows function effectively.