Are inflators universal?

[MrSam]

I haven't tried many BCs yet, but I am a huge fan of the Scubapro Pilot. It's what my local LDS rents out and for awhile I had intended on purchasing one. Problem is, the inflator has turned me off the BC completely. I know it's a small aspect and it works just fine, but I find it to be a bit uncomfortable. I personally prefer inflators where the dump button is on top and the inflate button is on the side (like the ones found on many other BCs such as the entire Aqualung line).
If I were to purchase a Pilot, can I remove the entire inflator and replace it with another one (something off of an Aqualung for example)?

 

[jwelburn]

Most inflators can be swapped similar to a mouthpiece. Cut zip-tie(s), remove, replace, add zip-tie(s).

 

[DevonDiver]

I've seen two different sized elbow connections (where the LPI screws into the bladder connector). If compatible, that's the easiest way to swap-out an LPI. Otherwise, you can replace the whole unit on the bladder/wing.  Or, as jwelburn mentions, get busy with the pliers and zip-ties and just swap out the corrugated hose/LPI module itself.

 

[redacted]

The Scubapro BCD will take any 1" (most common) LPI and you should be able to purchase the BCD without an inflator and add your own. That said, I much prefer the Scubapro LPI to the extent that I have replaced all the conventional inflators that came on a variety of wings with the Scubapro Power Inflator. The design is a bit more robust than most and I like the button locations. If you do end up with a Scubapro LPI that you don't like, I will trade it out with you for a new conventional inflator.

 

[diversteve]

This is a more expensive ($54) option but it's nice because you can flush the BC easily with one:
Zeagle Bx Power Inflator scuba diving gear at Zeagle Express

 

[Doc]

On a related note, hose couplings:

I got an OMS, Mares, Halcyon, DUI and a Poseidon and some others. I do believe that one of those three has a specific auto inflator hose coupling.

I'm guessing the Poseidon is the weirdo, but I don't recall.

Any others out there lurking like that ?

 

[MrSam]

Thanks so much everyone.
I was having trouble deflating the Scubapro, which is ultimately why I want to get a different inflator for it.

I was offered a Mares Dragon (15 dives on it, like new) for $210, and i3 Axiom for $250, and the Pilot for regular price, by my LDS. Which of these BCD's would you guys recommend? I much prefer jacket bcd's over rear. I like the idea of the Dragon, but I'm not too sure about it..

 

[Kronek]

I loved my Dragon. It wasn't total back inflate, and it wasnt total jacket inflate. 2/3 back I would say. It was comfy, if a bit heavy and very buoyant. I only sold it to run doubles. I got too good of a deal to pass up.

Thanks so much everyone.
I was having trouble deflating the Scubapro, which is ultimately why I want to get a different inflator for it.

I was offered a Mares Dragon (15 dives on it, like new) for $210, and i3 Axiom for $250, and the Pilot for regular price, by my LDS. Which of these BCD's would you guys recommend? I much prefer jacket bcd's over rear. I like the idea of the Dragon, but I'm not too sure about it..

 

[eelnoraa]

Scubapro inflator is so called the "balanced" inflator. I don't know what balance means here. If you how it is balance, please explain to me. Someone like it someone don't. You can buy standard K type inflator from DGX for $15.

 

[MrSam]

Thanks guys. I'll look into the inflators. Thank you Kronek. The i3 was sold...no surprise, so I may go with the Dragon.

---------- Post added April 9th, 2013 at 12:54 AM ----------

One more question. When it comes to sizing, should I focus more on the height or weight aspect on the charts? I know ideally you should base your size on both height and weight, but I am a bit tall for my weight. I am 5'11" at around 155 lbs. Which of the two BC's would work best for me:
1. 5'10"-6' 160-190 lbs
2. 5'7" - 5'10" 150-165