Help with tank straps

[DNK]

I just bought my first BC (a zeagle Brigade) from scuba toys. Seems to be a very nice BC. I'm planning on going diving this sunday, and have been trying to set everything up in preperation. The only real problem I am having is getting the tank to strap on securely. I realize that once the straps get wet the webbing will stretch, but I can't seem to get them even remotely tight while dry. I'm pretty sure that I have the buckles threaded correctly, but I could be wrong. The other thing I noticed is that unless I move the cam buckle away from the center of the tank towards the BC, I can't get the straps velcro to stick.
So I guess I'm asking....
1] Can anybody help me with getting the tank securely buckeled. I have never had this problem with rental BC's.
2] Is it okay to move the buckles away from center?
3] Any other hints related to buckling on tanks would be appreciated.

Thanks ahead of time.

 

[ae3753]

Congrats on your new BC. The Brigade is pretty nice looking.

Just in case, here's a link to threading the cam buckle: cam strap buckles.

It's okay to have your buckles away from center (the middle of the tank if looking directly from behind). I have a Ranger, and there is no way to get the straps to stick to the velcro if it's directly in the middle. Especially for smaller diameter tanks.

Getting the straps wet is usually your best bet in tightening your cam straps. Cause it takes the stretch out. With new BCs, this is probably the best method. However, I seldom get my straps wet. While pulling tight, I wiggle the strap up and down. With each motion, I can ratchet the strap tighter than I would be able to while straight pulling.

Who are you diving with on Sunday? Perhaps they can be of assitance too.

Good luck and dive safe.

 

[DNK]

Thanks for everybodies help. The problem was with the way I was threading the cam. Seemed a little counter intuitive at first, but after looking at it for a little bit it now makes sense to me. I usually have a little bit of trouble just doing what I'm told , but once I know why to do it I never forget it.