Max Recommended Tanks on WTX4 (45#) Wing

[wm4480]

Hi,

I am a tech diver in Pensacola wanting to upgrade doubles, from double aluminum 80's to at least double steel LP 95's. I currently dive an Apeks WTX4 Wing with a stainless steel backplate. I do not dive a drysuit, but only carry a lift bag for backup buoyancy. I am 195 and usually wear a 5mm full suit, sometimes with a 3mm hooded vest.

My question is this:

If I switch the double 80's for steel LP 95's or 108's, and I switch the backplate from steel to aluminum (dropping 6 lbs), WILL A WTX 4 with 45 lbs of buoyancy STILL PROVIDE ENOUGH LIFT TO TRIM OUT and ALLOW me to easily ascend?? (Descent clearly won't be an issue. ) I won't ever be below 200'FSW here.

Was hoping someone with similar experience or an Apeks Rep could help/comment. I am a huge Apeks fan and own 2 XTX50's and a full WTX3 harness and single tank bladder - Love all of 'em. Thanks in advance for the help.

-WM

 

[tphillipp]

Steel 95s and Steel 108s, when full are -10.1 lbs and -10.7,lbs each, respectively. Rounding conservatively, figure -22 lbs for full cylinders, -2 lbs for an alum plate plus you have weight of ss bands and brass manifold. The WTX4 w/ 45 lbs of buoyancy should be fine. Realize that there are other factors at play here e.g exposure suit, BC, body mass, and only you can determine your proper buoyancy. I recommend that you check you buoyancy in a pool first and adjust accordingly for salt water if necessary.

Tom Phillipp
Product Manager
Aqua Lung / Apeks US