15 year old BCD

[beyond_gravity]

i've found a 15 year old BCD that was made in japan. The guy say's that it's had lighting use and has pretty much sat in the bag for 12 years.

I don't doubt that it has seen light use, but is something 15 years old going to be ok to use??

The price is $80 CAD.

 

[DivemasterSteve]

IMO anything that is 15 years old and has setup that long without being serviced that my life depends on, i wouldnt trust it any deeper than i could go in a pool. it could have dry-rot just like a tire gets if its just sitting for a long time.

steve

 

[OneBrightGator]

Yeah, I'd pass, antiques are for shop displays.

Ben

 

[rab]

The owners manual for my Zeagle Ranger says it has a "shelf life" of 5 years. (I hope I get more than that actually USING it.)

-Rob

 

[nori1841]

Why don't you use the BCD actually?
Small air leak is acceptable and BCD is not mandatory gear.
I am still using 20 year old ScubaPro orange BCD made in USA. It had been stocked for 10 years in my room.

 

[ams511]

I have to agree with Steve, if the thing is 15 years old then you would need to get it serviced regardless. I wouldn't dive it in anything other than a pool until the tech gives it an ok. There are rubber and plastic parts which can dry rot even if it was put away brand new. If it was used and not rinsed properly and stored in someones garage, it could be in much worse shape even if used only once. I have two BC's, that are getting close to 15 years old, both are in perfect condition. However both are quality BC's (Seatec Manta and Beuchat Masterlift) and have been mantained properly (Rinsed and shampooed after each day of diving, allowed to dry completely, and hung in closet inside the house partially inflated). Each season I checK if they hold air and have a tech look at them check and lubricate any parts needed.