Quick question, please answer.

[cosmik]

Hi, I am part of an FLL (First Lego League) team, and I was wondering what type of mechanical inflator do you use for your BCD? We saw a 2020 post about a problem in the hose and inflator, and could you state any problems you faced while using a mechanical BCD inflator? (By the way, it was this one: Does everyone really need the LP BCD inflator?) Was it leaking air because you didn't maintain it correctly? If so, then is it hard to clean it? Please point out all the problems that you faced and what inflator and hose were you using? Thank you for your time, it will help out a lot.

 

[ekremer]

If I understand your question right. I use a standard k power inflator. They last a few years or a few hundred dives and are easy and cheap to replace. You can rebuild them but I don't think it's worth the effort. And they are easy enough to replace you can keep one in your save a dive.

The buttons can and do get stuck even with good maintenance. But it's not a dive ending problem. Just disconnect and orally inflate.

 

[Mike_4635]

I have a Scubapro BCD that is 12 years old. Never had a real problem with the inflater. Did notice one of the buttons was maybe starting to get sticky so replace it. Figure after about 900 dives it was time. After a dive trip I rinse the BCD inside and out to include the inflator. Then ensure the inside and outside are dry before storing it.