Tank Strap Advice

[nimoh]

Gotcha. I've never seen anyone actually push from the tip. Even I use my palm over the whole face of it when I don't pull the strap. As for the centimeter making a difference, it might in terms of percentage. If your moment arm goes from 2cm to 3cm, you get a big difference. Assuming a normal cam is ~10cm tall, it makes a slight difference....but not as noticeable as what I had been thinking, you're right. If the technique used is to push from the "tip" of the buckle, then I think that other "techniques" are at fault, like the band being too loosely placed in the buckle. This could be remedied by the maneuver akimbo posted a video of (or a few others, I'm sure).

As for misunderstanding the physics, I apologize. Most people don't take into account the location of the force. My assumption was due to how I secure the camband, I shouldn't have assumed.

On that topic, someone was complaining that they couldn't apply any torque to their application despite using a cheater bar. When I checked, they were on the standard handle and thought the WEIGHT of the cheater bar was supposed to help. I explained torque. I got quickly corrected and told the moment arm was HUGE because the (completely unused) cheater bar was hanging there.

I am inclined to agree, although that last paragraph flew a bit over my head

 

[Old grouch]

Some great idea's and advice, I really like the look of the Mares Airlock but will probably so for the Scuba Pro clamp as it looks very simple to use and I tend to try and keep things as simple as I can. Just to let you know, he is doing everything right but he simply lacks the strength to get it tight enough every time.
Thanks for you help.

 

[Akimbo]

... Just to let you know, he is doing everything right but he simply lacks the strength to get it tight enough every time...

Sure he does. Just lay the tank down and have him roll the cam over using his body weight and palm of the hand... or foot for that matter. Laying the weight of the tank on the BC also help compress it so the band doesn't have to pull as hard.

See the “Helpful Technique” and “Accessories” sections in these instructions: http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/bu.../391300-cam-buckle-assembly-instructions.html

Also, the band does not have to be nearly so tight if you have two.

 

[diversteve]

No personal experience with this one: Apollo Sports: Dive Gear - Bio Tank Lock

Looks like it's available in the UK - http://www.divernet.com/Diving_Gear/diver_tests/158242/retainer_apollo_biotank_lock.html

 

[Old grouch]

Akimbo, a great set of instructions. I have printed a set off a put them in his dive box (another copy in my box just in case I have a senior moment …..).

 

[buddhasummer]

No personal experience with this one: Apollo Sports: Dive Gear - Bio Tank Lock

Looks like it's available in the UK - RETAINER Apollo Bio-Tank Lock - Divernet

I used to own one in my BC days. They do work well but a little technique and practice tightening a standard band will save you money. I paid around $100 IIRC.

 

[Agility]

I loved the Problue Tank Band Assembly With Stainless Steel Buckle | Beuchat Australia on my jacket.

 

[Akimbo]

The best value I have seen on the Scubapro style buckles is from Dive Gear Express:

Tank Straps, Adapters and Weights -