Dacor Rig 3 weight pocket problem

[suddha]

I bought a used Dacor Rig 3 from a local diver last summer. I've used it a few times and like its characteristics. But I am having trouble with the weight pocket design. The back of the pocket is open, other than a small strap. So though the front of the weight sleeve is velcro'd to the pocket, the loaded weight sleeve has a tendency to sag out the back and flop down.

I realize this BCD is an older one so not many people might be familiar with it. But I thought I'd see if anyone has experience with it and has any tips for modification or use.

Thanks.

 

[Dockmaster]

I had the original Rig, so I'm not sure if the weight pockets are the same. My pockets came with thin sheets of plastic that had holes in them. You were suppose to zip-tie your weights to the sheets through th holes and slide the plastic/weight in and out of the pockets. The plastic kept the weight from shifting around in the pockets. I had it set up with a a 6 lb. & 4 lb. weight zip-tied to each sheet for fresh water. When I went to the ocean, I'd add a few more weights to each pocket. If your Rig didn't come with the sheets, make a template from a piece of paper, then cut them out a sheet of very thin plexiglass (or other plastic) and drill holes to zip-tie your weights to.

The only time that I noticed the weight pockets sticking out the back of the BC weight sleeves was when I had 3-6lb weight in each pocket for dry suit diving. I don't use soft weights, so I can't tell you how it will work with them. I never had a problem with weights falling out the back like you described.

As long as the velcro on the front of the pocket and the little strap on the back are solid, you should be fine.

 

[suddha]

Thanks for the feedback. I chatted with a dive shop guy yesterday and he suggested pulling in the webbing straps at the back of the weight pockets and stitching them smaller by about an inch. I did that and will test it out this weekend diving.

 

[DevonDiver]

I used to dive with a Rig 3, many years ago. Sorry to say this, but it is a horrible design.

I experienced exactly the same problem you describe with the weight pockets. Short of having the pockets stitched closed at the back, there is little you can do.

In the end, I stripped the BCD apart, and just transferred the bladder onto a steel backplate with webbing harness. Much better that way!