The Great local dive shop vs. online debate

[GlockDiver]

I understand that regulators require regular annual maintenance, thus it would be advantageous to purchase from the LDS. I don't remember where, but I can almost swear that I heard the same thing about BCDs.

So, what kind of maintenance is necessary with BCDs? Are there just standard size O-rings to be replaced? If someone buys a BCD on-line, is it reasonable for them to do their own maintenance?

 

[rscalzo]

I thought that nothing could go wrong with a bc and why not purchase it online.

A few years back a three year old Seaquest BC had the seam delaminate and start to leck. Seaquest replaced the bc with a new one with no questions asked.

That would not be possible with a online purchase.

 

[ScoobyDave]

Why wouldn't it be possible to get an online purchase replaced on warranty?

I've got a warranty on my online BC purchase. Something goes wrong, it's covered under warranty. I know, I know, gosh, with some online purchases I may have to send it in - what an inconvenience for purchasing an item at 1/2 to 1/3rd the cost of local purchase.

 

[GlockDiver]

Sometimes companies will replace products that are outside of the warranty period because it is simply good business. I can see where LP may not be inclined to do the same. But, for the same equipment at half the cost, you probably can afford to buy another after 3 years.

 

[Charlie99]

GlockDiver once bubbled...
I understand that regulators require regular annual maintenance, thus it would be advantageous to purchase from the LDS. I don't remember where, but I can almost swear that I heard the same thing about BCDs.

So, what kind of maintenance is necessary with BCDs? Are there just standard size O-rings to be replaced? If someone buys a BCD on-line, is it reasonable for them to do their own maintenance?

If your LDS won't service a reg bought elsewhere, then you should find another LDS.

BC don't really need annual maintenance, unless you have a combo inflator/regulator. You can easily (and should frequently) inspect your BC for general wear and tear, for leaks in the bladder, and for proper operation of overpressure/dump valves.

The only item that might require professional assistance is a power inflator that is getting a sticky button or otherwise malfunctioning.

 

[Murat]

I purchased my transpac II+trek wings from leisure pro. I am happy with it. Actually I got most my equipment from LP. If you are not sure to get a BC from LP I recommend you do. They are less expensive compared to other providers. After all its just a BC.

 

[Dive4Life]

I purchase the DiveRite Transpec II Harness and Rec as well from LeisurePro. I have nothing but the great things to say about LeisurePro and the BC that I purchased. I would recommend buying online because you save a lot of money and LeisurePro provides their own waranty.

 

[5615mike]

I've bought two BC's online from LP and have had nothing but good things to say about the experience. I saved about 50% when you consider the sales tax advantage. LDS could not even get close. As long as you know what you want and have tried the gear on before you order, mail order is a great way to go.

 

[chris3536]

I have had 2 friends that have had great success buying equipment off ebay. However, I don't mind paying a few extra bucks to buy from my LDS, especially with life support equipment.

 

[pasley]

GlockDiver once bubbled...
I understand that regulators require regular annual maintenance, thus it would be advantageous to purchase from the LDS. I don't remember where, but I can almost swear that I heard the same thing about BCDs.

So, what kind of maintenance is necessary with BCDs? Are there just standard size O-rings to be replaced? If someone buys a BCD on-line, is it reasonable for them to do their own maintenance?

Seems I read the same thing. The inflator valve will need servicing occasionally and the bladder should be checked for harding or wear as well as the hose.

This year I sent in my BC which I bought at my LDS 2 years ago. There was a very, and I mean very small leak at a thread under a flap. DACOR replaced my BC with a new one, and even gave me a slight upgrade (extra shoulder dump and bayonet closures in addition to the Velcro).

In any case annual maintenance is cheap insurance. I would rather they test and find a problem, or prevent a problem before I find one at 100 feet.

As for buying from a non authorized dealer. I use to head a department for Sony Corp. Gray market goods (which is what you are buying) did not have any warranty from the manufacturer. Personally I would rather have a manufacturer AND a LDS standing behind the product than just an internet store.

Also at the cost of a good BC, they are not in the throw away catagory for my bank book. Your bank book may have a different oponion, if so you are welcome to remember me in your will, that is Pasley with a y and no i.