Diving with a Pony - key tips for a newbie?

[KenGordon]

Thanks for the advice people. As for traveling (flying) with the 13cf, I'm right in thinking I'm going to have to remove the valve even if it's in hand luggage right?
The sling from AP looks a lot like the homemade one...

Depending on where you are going it may be easier to use a 10l aluminium cylinder as a backup. It saves the airline faff.

Alternatively, join a club and go diving in the UK. There will be some pony users to quiz.

 

[Lorenzoid]

Hi Mat K. There are extensive threads on SB about ponies and their use. Take a look. Lots of good info if you take some time to shift through the threads.

. . .

As for flying with a pony, its mostly an issue of weight. . . .

Like this: If travelling with a pony...

 

[uncfnp]

Like this: If travelling with a pony...

Another oldie but goodie.
Pony Bottles "Solo Diving"

 

[Mat K]

Like this: If travelling with a pony...

How do you sling *that*!?

 

[Kharon]

I have never needed a vis to get my pony filled after travel. I have a H2Odyssey with both fill adapters. I just fill from a full tank. An equalizing whip would work the same for a standard valve. I also use the plug that comes with a new tank. I remove it as I enter security and put it back in as soon as I'm through. No chance of something getting in that would require a vis.

 

[Edward3c]

Thanks for the advice people. As for traveling (flying) with the 13cf, I'm right in thinking I'm going to have to remove the valve even if it's in hand luggage right?
The sling from AP looks a lot like the homemade one...

Its the removing and refitting the valve that causes the most stress that can result in the tank threads failure. I've also been advised, by the airlines, that it would cost me US$100 on each export and import for the US.

 

[JohnN]

Its the removing and refitting the valve that causes the most stress that can result in the tank threads failure. I've also been advised, by the airlines, that it would cost me US$100 on each export and import for the US.

Could you provide a source for that statement about stress on the tank threads with a valve R&R (particularly since the valve only needs to be finger tight on the tank)?

Which airlines quoted you $100 and exactly what was the service provided in that quote?

 

[BertStevens]

I've also been advised, by the airlines, that it would cost me US$100 on each export and import for the US.

Could you provide a source for this? I work for an airline and have never hear of this.

 

[Edward3c]

Both Continental and American. Return flight to Belize from the UK was going to cost me an extra US$400.

 

[JohnN]

Both Continental and American. Return flight to Belize from the UK was going to cost me an extra US$400.

For what? I've flown on Continental (United) and American with a pony for no extra charge. Exactly how big/type of a tank were you trying to transport?