Fisher Full Face 431

leaks are bad · Post by **leaks are bad** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 6:53 am

I've got a fisherpaykel 431 fullface.

Brand new. I'm having to cinch straps so tight it leaves deep marks.

I need help.

Suggest away.

Reason for cinching is air leaks.

Goofproof · Post by **Goofproof** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 7:14 am

We can't see what machine you are using or what pressure you use. The mask comes with three size gaskets, try another size, the 431 doesn't have to be that tight to seal, and you can use Moleskin to improve the fit. Jim

CollegeGirl · Post by **CollegeGirl** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 7:44 am

Hi leaks are bad,

*Most* posters here that have tried the HC431 liked it. It never did anything for me in the 10~ months I used it other than leak and leave welts on my face. Different masks fit different people. This one, no matter which size cushion I used or how I adjusted the straps, did not fit me at all. There are just some masks like that for every person, and the 431 was mine. But yeah, as Jim suggested, try adjusting the straps not-too-tightly and using a different sized cushion. Try everything before you give up. Masks are never cheap to replace.

Missy · Post by **Missy** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 8:07 am

I'm with Jim on this one. You shouldn't have to tighten the mask so much to get a good seal. I had that problem when I was working the kinks out to use the 431. I also learned that the seal had to be a little further down my nose with the chin seal under the chin a little. There's a spot on the top of the headgear to adjust for this. Hope you can get that thing comfortable!

roadwarrior · Post by **roadwarrior** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 10:47 am

I tried and had to return the 431. It simply leaked way too much for my liking. IF I was a back sleeper it would have probably been fine. But I sleep on my left side, and it leaked and farted all night long. Oh well.........like noses we all have one and can't fit all things to all people.........

mom8 · Post by **mom8** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 11:57 am

I have the F&P 431 and was having trouble with leaks. I was using the medium and changed to the small. I find that EVERY NIGHT I have to loosen all straps to the mask. I then put the mask on and pull the bottom straps, but not to tight. Then I put the machine on and get in to bed. I then pull the top straps. You can hear the leak at the top of the nose stop. I can get to sleep now and I am a restless stomach sleeper and get no leaks. I find that the bottom straps use to be meeting in the back and now they are at least an inch on each side less. The only problem is that it is leaving marks by the nose. Good Luck to you.

Brian Hinther · Post by **Brian Hinther** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 12:23 pm

I moved to the 431 from the Ultra Mirage FF, because I was having trouble getting the Mirage to seal when I was on my side. The 431 seems just the opposite: leaks like a banshee when I'm on my back, but seals great when I mash it against the pillow on my side.

I also need a smaller size than I thought I would, and find the bottom of the mask sits quite a ways below my chin. Hope you can make it work for you; it has been a good mask for me.

Mask