Inflatable PDF's

[oarfish]

For members that use an inflatable PDF while fishing. A question came up this morning while having coffee with forum member Mikel as to how often to replace the CO2 arming cylinder, as for my self I install a new arming kit every year which is most likely incorrect, the question is how do you approach maintenance on this type of PDF's

Rick

 

[tbum2020]

The USCG states: Once used, or every five years, the complete inflator and CO2 cylinder must be replaced to rearm it.
I found the info from a pdf supplied from the USGG, heres the link to it:
http://bdept.cgaux.org/pdf/InflatableLifeJacketBasics.pdf

 

[vanceinak]

I used to mechanic for a helicopter company here in AK & we had self inflating PFDs in the machine for offshore use. We were required to weigh the Co2 cylinders every year to confirm content.

 

[mikel]

For members that use an inflatable PDF while fishing. A question came up this morning while having coffee with forum member Mikel as to how often to replace the CO2 arming cylinder, as for my self I install a new arming kit every year which is most likely incorrect, the question is how do you approach maintenance on this type of PDF's

Rick

yeah, so after coffee with Rick I spent the whole week in my float tube wondering if my pfd would float my fat b*$%

 

[random user]

yeah, so after coffee with Rick I spent the whole week in my float tube wondering if my pfd would float my fat b*$%

That sounds like a glorious time! Let me guess you were a bit more careful and much more aware of how far from shore you were.

 

[rickf]

I purchased one of those Cabela's auto pfd. They came out last year and used to have a big discount sale.

The first time I used it, I fell head first into the cold water! It works pretty good, but I had to send to Cabelas to get a new co2 with sensor ($25 and it took 2 weeks to get there) LOL

I'm pretty sure the CO2 can't leak out or "go bad" so I don't think you have to change it if you don't use it ....... for a long time! Maybe replace in 20 years ..... if they still make them?

 

[MoscaPescador]

I have a Stearns manual PFD that I bought in 2001. I have to pull a ripcord to get it to inflate.

After six or seven years of owning it, I decided to pull the ripcord. The PFD inflated flawlessly. I had a spare rearming kit to replace the spent cartridge.

Dennis

 

[Ard]

My Stearns is older than Dennis's and I've never had to set it off Rick. It has never been stored in heat nor has it been frozen. The vest has a manual inflate tube and I air it up every year in spring and let it sit on the kitchen table over night to be sure the seams are good. It holds its air and I wear it every trip to the cabin. I hope I never need it but figure it'll work if I do.

 

[oarfish]

Thanks for all the replies, I appreciate the info.

Rick