Question on inflatable vests

[JackK]

I figure someone here with more experience than I will know ... I have a couple of Mustang inflatable suspenders. They are coming up on 3 yrs old. What is the lifespan on the CO2 cylinders?

Has anyone changed out a cylinder that hasn't been fired? I'm thinking if I unscrew this thing it's going to fire off like a missile.

I know I should RTFM but that's not handy and the keyboard is.

Jack

[Legacy]

I am not an expert but on my diving BCs the CO2 cartridges just unscew - - even if they have not been fired. They do not fire unless you pull a cord that then pierces the top. Unless there'a ton of corrosion, you shouldn't have any concerns.


Rick

[Mariner]

The cylinders won't fire when you remove them. The firing mechanism is a pin that pierces the end of the cylinder. This does not happen until you pull the cord.

As for the age, I wouldn't worry about it. It is a good idea, however, to pull the cylinder annually and inspect it for corrosion or damage. Unless you find either of the above, I wouldn't bother replacing it. If you do, go ahead and re-install it. Then don the vest and give it a test fire so you can familiarize yourself with how it works. Then re-pack it, and replace the cylinder with a new one.

[rt11002003]

I'm not an expert either, however, over the years I've replaced the unused cartridges on my PFDs a number of times. They just unscrew.

[JackK]

Thanks for the info. I'll unscrew the cartridge and make sure everything looks ok.

I could just picture me launching a missile in the marina as I unscrewed this thing

Jack

[jack Stone]

A suggestion. I was replacing my CO2. Decided to test the vests before I changed them out. 2 out of the 3 Mustangs didn't hold the air for more than 5 min. When I called them they did not respond. I don't use them now (they look nice hanging in my office closet). If you still have the old co's you may want to try the same test. They should be easy to repack...if they work.