Zeagle Ranger LTD vs. Dive Rite Transpac

[jagfish]

Doing all this reading about BP/W has really got me interested in trying out a rig. Thanks to all for the informative posts, I'll keep pluggin along with the passive research.

The Halcyon website was really an eye opener. How beautifully streamlined those rigs are.

What is generally the most challenging aspect of transitioning from traditional BC to a BP/W configuration? Is sussing out the weighting a challenge at all.

JAG

 

[reubencahn]

I made this switch 6 months ago. The only challenge is getting the bp/w adjusted correctly the first time. After that, no issues. The bp/w disappears under water. The tank, even a heavy steel, becomes rock solid stable on your back. You will not regret the move. I certainly didn't. In fact, this afternoon, I'm taking my wife and son to pick up their new bp/w's. Adjusting the weighting takes a little time because you will probably drop more weight than you expect.

 

[jagfish]

Any recommended sites or reading to begin the learning process for a trial and/or the eventual switch?

JAG

 

[reubencahn]

baue.org and dir-diver.com both have info on setting up the bp. This board also has lots of info.

 

[jagfish]

I'll definitely be checking out this board. Thanks for the links.

JAG

 

[JPBECK]

Jag to answer your question --you will drop some weight off you harness or belt due to the fact that the backplate is typically 6 lbs. neg. (soory I am impireral). as far as achieving trim you will need the use of a pool. Trim is an issue with BP becasue it is acaully an achieveable goal--where as with a bulky and draggy standard type BC it was impossible (at least imporbable) goal. As far as fitting where you buy it should fit it to you. If not check out this site

http//www.gue.com/equipment/index.shtml

I think they have a section about fitting equipment....

 

[jagfish]

Thanks for that JP...
I am truly interesting in reading into this so when I visit the states this summer, I can maybe be fitted as you suggested.

Some questions

 

[DennisS]

I dive a transpac II with a travel wing on my AL 80s, I have the weight pockets on the harness. It is a nicely balanced rig, it just feels right for me. I like it. I've been using an AL backplate with an Oxycheq 45 for my 130, I haven't been able to get that locked in trim and balance feel with it yet. I'm still undecided about BPs and single tanks. I use a Rec wing/BP for AL doubles.

 

[JPBECK]

It takes some time to get the trim dowm when you are working on it by yourself...
That 130 most be some rig---That's a huge cylinder! You might want to try to rig it up so that it bolts directly to you BP--The cam bands might be prohibiting you from achieving trim---Its so big that it might give way when you turn---Just MO

Also it might be harder for you because you are alternating between your two BC's--I had that problem ---I dove the standard DIR setup when I was diving on scuba--but when I dove my rebreather I was having problems with my trim--I finnally converted my Breather over to Back Plate and wings and with a little playing with the wieghts I was able to fix the problem...

 

[photojtn]

I own both the Ranger ltd, and the TPll, depending on the dive I have used both bc's with double 95's with no problem (If properly weighted). What I like most about the TPll is it's easier to side mount than the ranger when needed. Either one of these bc's are an execllent choice. (IMO)