New diver looking to buy a used BC, what should I be checking for?

[reefvagabond]

I'm a new diver looking to buy my first BC. Someone is offering to sell me a used BC and I want to buy however, what should I check for and be on the lookout for to make sure it's still in good condition?

For example, if the current owner hasn't washed out the bladders properly, how would I know salt crystals have formed, etc?

 

[Bubbletrubble]

First, make sure that the BCD fits you. Fit is important for function when it comes to this piece of scuba gear.

I would check the condition of the BCD. Look for any obvious defects/rips/tears. Do all of the BCD functional checks that you should be doing before every dive. (I'm amazed at how many people don't do systematic pre-dive checks on their gear, particularly with the BCD and reg setup.) I'd probably want to inflate the bladder fully and let it sit for a while to make sure that there aren't any frank leaks.

If you don't know how to systematically check out a BCD, take along an experienced diver to help you out with this.

Unfortunately, it would be pretty difficult to look inside the bladder for salt crystals. Just ask the seller how he cared for the BCD in-between dives and judge whether he looks to be trustworthy.

I'd ask when the BCD was last used and how it was stored since then.
Some sellers will allow potential buyers to dive with the gear prior to purchase. If you are buying local (via Craigslist or from a friend), this is really the best way to test it out.

Last but not least, make sure you educate yourself on the pricing of comparable brand-new BCDs that come with a manufacturer warranty and the approx. value of comparable used BCDs. You should be paying substantially less than a new BCD, and the seller's asking price should be in the ballpark of the used market prices.

 

[Jim Lapenta]

Problem is you really wouldn't. Unless you are willing to take it apart. What kind of BC is it and what is he asking for it? Even if the inflator has been rinsed as needed it does not mean that the rest of it has. Ideally after diving in salt water I like to not only rinse it good on the dock or boat but at home after a saltwater trip I remove the inflator hose assembly and fill the BC with fresh water, let it sit for a few minutes, dump that out, refill, let that stand, swish it around, and finally rinse it again. Then I take the dump valves off, rinse them good, and flush the BC. Reassemble and put a little air in to store it. If it is going to hang for any length of time I'll dilute a little mouthwash, swish that around before dumping it out. What happens is that salt crystals will settle in any little fold and along with other organic matter and cause the bladder to stick together in spots as well as allow bacteria to grow. Not a good thing. If you can unscrew the dump valves on the BC and inspect them. There should be no corrosion or build up of anything. If there is I'd steer clear of it.

Bubble got in before me but his advice is right on as well. And don't forget you can get a new BC for for less than you may think if you really shop around.

 

[Leisure Proski]

Hi Reefvagabond,

I would be worried about where you get it from. Buying a used piece of life support equipment from an individual on the internet can be a real gamble. Buying a piece of life support equipment from a respectable business on the internet can give you a warranty (although not as long as the manufactures when purchased new), but still a warranty!

Have you visited the Leisure Pro website for used BCD's? They have a large selection over 39 at this time and they range from $20.00 to under $600.00 for a super technical BCD, and if its not right for you you can return them. I recommend you check it out. When you go to the website leisurepro.com and just type in the search window used, then on the right of the screen you can refine your search to just BCD's. They also have 9 BCD's on a close out list too!


Sincerely,

Leisureproski

 

[WetBoy101]

Reefvagabond - This is more for after you buy a BC. My bladder has baffles so I can't "swish" it very well. (As Jim suggested) What I do for a bladder rinse is remove both of the ports on the shoulders and put a hose in one end,and let it run out the other end while I rinse my other gear. Then drain out the bottom dump valve. I also replace all the valves and fill about half way with air and hang it up to dry. When I'm feeling really ambitious, I'll go back to the BC in a few hours and drain the fresh water that has run down the inside of the bladder out of the lower dump valve again.