To STA or not

[Aqua-Andy]

I have a SS B/P and #32 HOG wing. The anti-roll ribs keep the tank from moving but when assembling the rig it is a pain to get the tank, wing and plate lined up straight. I was thinking that if I had a STA holding the plate and wing together it would make it a lot easier. The only negative I have heard about using STA is that it moves the tank further from your back. Any thoughts?

 

[FireInMyBones]

I use a STA to eliminate the last of the weight from my belt.

The STA does hold everything together very well. I have zero issues with lining everything up as it already is.

The tank moving away from your back is negligible. I do not find that I have trouble with this.

 

[ringmod65]

I was happy to dump my STA when I moved into a HOG singles wing. The extra distance from the plate to the cylinder was increased lateral instability and caused me to tend to roll while trying to remain in trim.

For me, the key to keeping everything lined up is to be careful not to force the second camband shut. If need be, give the band a bit of slack - still snug, but not so tight as to require force sufficient to shift the bp/w when closing the latch.

 

[eelnoraa]

There are some STAs that will NOT move tank higher. The two models I know are made by DSS and DeepOutDoor. I use DeepOutDoor version myself. If you want, I can post some pictures tonight. For DSS version, search the image gallery you will see it.

I prefer STA for two reason. 1) main reason, I can disassemble the setup without threading cambands. This makes packing and cleaning a lot easier. 2) I actually prefer the tank sits a litte distant from my back. I use DR SS plate, it is relatively flat. I often found 1st stage too close to my head. If you have a more slanted plate, this may not be a issue.

 

[Pullmyfinger]

The comparison is really between using a STA vs. Other forms of
Roll control, wobble stopper (the type that is permanently
Attached to the wing).

The distance the tank sits from your back is affected by the bend
Angles in the plate. This can have a greater effect than whether
Or not you are using a STA or not. The flatter the backplate,
The closer the tank will be to your back.

A flatter plate with a sewn in wobble stopper (DSS), will be
Closer to your back than other combinations.

Other plates that aren't as flat that use a STA will position
The tank further away from your back.

Another consideration is whether or not you want to frequently
Separate the wing from the plate for cleaning, storage, and
Packing for travel. Using a STA takes a bit longer to disassemble.
This may not matter much, but it's worth considering.

It's possible that a steel 8" diameter tank, may have a feeling
Of being more wobbly feeling than a 7.25" diameter tank.
Particularly when they're full. I don't dive a big steel tank,
So I can only guess on this aspect.

What I do know, is that you'll get used to whichever setup you
Decide to go with. Some of these points are really just splitting
Hairs.

As for me, I wanted to begin with the most well thought out
System. I did give consideration to the above point when I
Chose which setup to buy and dive.

For every dive, there is packing, transporting, assembly, dive,
Disassembly, cleaning, and then storage.

For me, the choice was obvious.

Take care,
Mitch

 

[JahJahwarrior]

You could use bookend screws/sex bolts/whatever they are called, Dive Rite and Zeagle both sell them, to hold the wing onto the backplate.

 

[USCScubaboy]

+1 on the screws.

 

[Aqua-Andy]

I tried to use the screws but with the hog wing the tank sits on top of the book screws and the wobble stopper does not work.

 

[eelnoraa]

Then just get yourself a STA, try to see if you like it better.

Unless you are using DSS wing, having STA makes disassemble much much easier and faster.

Another consideration is whether or not you want to frequently
Separate the wing from the plate for cleaning, storage, and
Packing for travel. Using a STA takes a bit longer to disassemble.This may not matter much, but it's worth considering.

 

[vinegarbiscuit]

Although my wing allows for use without STAs, I use them solely for the added weight (1lb each). That negates the need for wearing a weightbelt or a weight-harness, and that's a beautiful thing! If STA use does indeed move the tank further from one's back, it's never proved to be an issue for me - I still trim out pretty decently. I use a DSS plate that fits really well - maybe that has something to do with it.