Regulator Hose Protectors or not?

[Landlocked123]

Been hearing different sides on this one… I have been using them. Yesterday, I went to install a new long hose which I purchased for my primary 2nd stage and when I pulled back the hose protector come to find out the hose (where it attached to the 1st stage) was practically off. It only had 1-2 threads still holding it in and practically fell out by itself. Pretty darn scary since the last time I dove it I was at 75 feet. Long story short, I am now considering taking them off all my regulator and hose connections. I would like to hear some opinions on this but from what I was able to gather some of the benefits of not using them are …

1. You are able to inspect the connections very easily before each dive (and after)
2. Less build up of contaminatns after a dive(s) either in Salt or Fresh. Water gets trapped underneath the fittings and can lead to early failure
3. You are better able to detect Minor leaks visually.

Your take?

 

[decompression]

Yes, lose the hose protectors......just look at the techies that really depend on their gear. Not a protector to be found....


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[Dive Right In Scuba 2]

Yes, lose the protectors...for all the reasons you stated. Of course it seems like you've already made the call on it.

 

[LeadTurn_SD]

You've discovered first hand why many of us throw the hose protectors away. They hide problems, trap salt water, and are just really not necessary. The slight protection they might provide to the hose connection is completely offset by the fact that they hide developing problems.

If you are religious about pulling them back after each and every dive so the terminal end of the hose can dry completely and you can inspect it, fine. But most of us get lazy and stop / forget to do that.

Remove them says I!!

Best wishes.

 

[Landlocked123]

Okay remaining ones will be off by end of day !! Thanks for your input…. Safe Diving …George