Deflector?

I've been using a CPAP machine for about 6 months now, but I'm having trouble with the mask, an Ultra Mirage II. There's a little plate that sits on top of the elbow that connects the mask proper with the hose. I've seen it being referred to as a deflector, though I'm not sure that's the proper term. The issue is that the airflow coming from between this plate and the elbow makes a horrible racket, and I doubt that removing the plate will keep the proper pressure I need for proper rest, aside from it being noisy as well.

Has anyone else had trouble with this?

That 'airflow' is the CO2 being vented out (as it needs to be) when you sleep. If you sleep in such as way as to block it, you could become sick, but if that's not the case, call Cpap.com and ask for their advice - they're usually really good about those kinds of things.

It shouldn't be making a lot of racket, unless you have it up against something, like the pillow, so that the vented air is blowing on it and causing the racket. Is your leak rate OK? If it is consistently high you may have a leak. My first UM mask developed one there at about 5-6 months, then I got a UMII and it has been fine for the last ten months.