Just bought my first rig!

[ican]

So I just completed my 4 hour round-trip drive to pick up my "new" Mares Abyss MR22 rig. The guy bought it in 1994 and used it for about 40 dives, then put it away in it's case and stuck it in a closet for 20 years. Except for a couple scratches on the face of the 2nd stage, this thing looks new, and it is SEXY! Along with the MR22 DFC 1st Stage and Abyss 2nd Stage, the kit came with a compass and pressure gauge, a Sherwood "The Source" computer that needs a new battery (will likely just buy a new computer considering the age of this thing) and a Sherwood Scuba Octo. All of the external rubber/silicon components feel pliable and well taken care of... There are no cracks in anything from dry rot, and I am taking the whole rig to my dive center to have it inspected and serviced tomorrow. If I get the green light from the dive center, I will be taking this puppy out for a wreck dive on Sunday in Lake Michigan for a trial run. The drive was worth it just to hear the stories of the guy I bought it from, and the price was just right... $250 for everything. Now I just need a BCD/Wings and a good wetsuit and my kit will be complete.

Happy as a pig in ****... =)

 

[DeepSeaExplorer]

If it's been sitting up that long, it needs to be rebuilt. You should be prepared that the shop probably can't turn it around that quickly for you. But, there's always next weekend...

 

[DivemasterDennis]

Congratulations on your purchase. As with all used gear, especially that which has not been used for years and is 20 years old, not only inspection and service, but pressure testing all hoses, and frankly, I would replace them all given their age. I(f it is in as good condition as you believe, you made a great deal. But remember when it comes to scuba equipment, funcionality and reliability trump "sexy." Proceed with extreme caution until you can confirm all is working properly.
DZvemasrteDennis

 

[ican]

Thanks guys for the replies. I definitely am in no rush to use my new rig... I was overly excited last night about having my own stuff, but yeah... I'll be sure to get everything serviced and rebuilt that needs to be serviced and rebuilt. I have no desire to experience a total equipment failure.

 

[Searcaigh]

Great reg, enjoy it once you have had it serviced.