Aqualung Axiom I3/Sure Lock II issue

[Bob Logue]

Aqua Lung Axiom i3 Weight-Integrated BCD.
I bought this item and have used it on 20+ dives this year. While I like the fit, the I3 System and the alternate air add-on, the biggest flaw is the "Sure-Lok II" weight pouch system. During two separate dives using 2.5 kilos of weight, I had the same pouch detach and drop to the bottom. The design problem is that the Aqua-Lung system does not have retention redundancy, and it is designed to detach too easily. The purpose of a BCD is to provide buoyancy and the purpose of a weight packet is to hold weight, not drop off. There are better systems available like Scuba Pro's that use a buckle retention system or several others that use a Velcro flap. Not having redundancy in any aspect of diving equipment is unforgiveable and ruins what is otherwise a nice BCD system.

 

[Jak Crow]

I've lost a couple myself, but because of the way I had to roll on to a boat's dive ramp after a dive was over. If the weight pouches are too much of an issue, I would just start using a belt.

 

[SOFDiver]

I think that your BC needs a close inspection, as there may be a problem with your specific BC. We use AL BCs with the Shur-Loc system in our rental dept. and don't have any such problems (with much more weight). Old Velcro systems are problematic and have been replaced by all manufactures with "clip" systems, and redundant systems pose a problem in emergency situations. Clip on one side may be weak or fractured, or may be catching on another part of your gear. I've seen this happen on divers who are crossing hoses across their body, hose catches on handle dislodging the retaining clip. AL is great on such problems, contact them through their web site, or customer service via phone and/or see your local AL dealer.

 

[Gachnar]

I've never had one detach, but you do have to make sure they click in tight, which if you are putting in the pouches after putting on your gear can be tricky sometimes. I did have one pouch crack (probably ended up below a weight belt) so I try to be more careful with them now.

Also there was a recall on some of the older style handles as they could eventually break.

 

[muzikbiz22]

Aqua Lung is conducting a voluntary recall of SureLock™II weight pocket handles. SureLock™II is the mechanical weight release system found on most Aqua Lung buoyancy compensators (BCs) beginning in 2009. Aqua Lung is concerned about the rubber handle pulling off of the plastic SureLock™II weight pocket assembly. If this were to occur during a dive, the weight pocket would be left engaged inside the BC. There are no known occurrences of this happening underwater, and there have not been any reported injuries, but Aqua Lung believes that a recall is the safe and prudent thing to do. Aqua Lung has made a revision to the handle assembly that strengthens it. A revised handle is easily recognized by a thickened band of rubber at the base of the handle.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using their BCs with Sure Lock II weight pockets. Bring the pockets to your nearest authorized Aqua Lung Dive Retailer or Dive Center. They will be able to replace your handles for you while you wait, as changing handles is a quick process. The replacement is made under warranty and you will not incur any charges.
***Please note that handles will be in short supply for the first three weeks.
U.S. (except Hawaii) and Caribbean Dealers - for additional assistance please call us at 888-818-3483 or 760-597-5000 or email us at support@aqualung.com.
Hawaii and Micronesia Dealers - for additional information, please call us at 808-485-0100 or email us at pacsupport@aqualung.com.

 

[Islandheart]

I use the Axioms, both standard and I3 models for all my dives both pool and OW.

i did replace the pockets on one with the re-call.

Not lost one yet with hundreds of dives.....

 

[WanderLust68]

I've used my Axiom on10 dives so far and have been very happy with it, but on a recent lake dive as I eased out into deeper water I started listing to one side and then noticed one of my weight pockets had fallen out close to shore. I had my dive buddy pop the pouch back in and even with the slightest tug, out the pocket came. I was able to duplicate this on the other pocket as well.

I did some reading on Aqualung's website and found that the pouches have a weight limit. For the single channel its 10 lbs, for the single channel long its 15 lbs. For my Axiom, I'm using the single channel long and I put in 12 lbs of weight (the most I've used since I bought the BC), which should have been well within the weight limit it supports. I then took my BC to my LDS to check it out and they agreed that the pouches are popping out way too easily.

I didn't think that after only 10 dives and who knows how many times I've popped weights in and out, that either the locking mechanism on the BC or the clip on the weight pouch would have been worn down enough to allow the pouches to fall out with a heavier amount of weight. We've inspected the locking mechanism and everything seems fine, nothing is chipped, warped or worn out.

Has anyone else experienced this?

 

[Trance]

The Axiom comes with 10lb pouches(whereas other Aqua Lungs come with 8lb),which I do not like as it feels sloppy only using 7/8lbs with the shot bags moving around. I lost one with 7lbs of shot. My LDC gave me an 8lb pouch to match the other 8lb that my buddy found last year. 7lbs is snug and feels much better and I haven't lost it after 30 dives this past month.