Length of BCD Inflation hose

[hon]

Dear All,

I would like to ask those who own Buddy Commando BCD (old style) that how long the BCD inflation hose should be so that I can order one online.

Thank you.

[john scott]

It really depends on lots of things, size of BC, regs, size of you, etc. but don't worry just order one of about a metre and cut it down to the correct size using trial and error. One of the good things about Buddy jackets is that you can shorten the hose. If you cut too much off simply order a longer hose (without the end fittings) and reuse your current end fittings.

[BogSnorkeller]

Ever since I've had my Commando, my AutoAir/Inflator was too short, and sat way too high up on my shoulder. At the dive show I tried to do something about it and went to see AP Valves and get some new bits.

My corrugated hose is 40cm. However, they didn't have the replacements in stock (NB - the corrugated hose for an AutoAir is different to the one for a non-AutoAir.) So we agreed that I'd phone them up after the show and order a longer one. As far as I can remember, they cost around £25 - which I think is just for the hose without the end fittings.

My LP inflation hose was 70cm, and I replaced that with a 100cm one.

Having fitted the longer LP hose, that seems to have done the trick, so I wont bother replacing the corrugated one.

So, if you take John Scott's advice and buy a standard length of corrugated hose, I'd suggest you sort out the LP hose first to get the inflator in a good position, before cutting the corrugated hose to size.

[john scott]

I'm afraid I was talking about the LP hose as I had not thought about the corrugated one, which is extendable anyway, to a certain degree.

[BogSnorkeller]

I'm afraid I was talking about the LP hose as I had not thought about the corrugated one, which is extendable anyway, to a certain degree.

Thinking about it - the OP probably was talking about the LP hose. It's unlikely that someone would flog a BCD without the corrugated hose attached.

In which case, I'd advise the OP to rig up his BCD with bottle and regs etc., put it on, work out which port he's going to use, get someone to route a cord from the port to the inflator and then measure it. My BCD is connected to my pony first stage - a good few inches lower than my main first stage - which explains why I need to use a longer LP hose.

Then, as John says, just make sure you don't get one that's too short - if it's too long you can cut it down.

[hon]

Thank you all for your input. Sorry that I didn't state my question clearly. I have recently acquired an old style Buddy BCD. It is the kind with orange fabric all over. It has the corrugated hose attached. I need an LP hose to connect the inflator to the first stage. I was asking how long the hose I will be needing. Also as I was searching for answers on the net, I noticed that the Buddy inflator has a non-standard kind of LP hose coupling. So do I need to call AP Valves for this coupling or can I buy it somewhere?

Thank you again.

[PeteM]

Also as I was searching for answers on the net, I noticed that the Buddy inflator has a non-standard kind of LP hose coupling. So do I need to call AP Valves for this coupling or can I buy it somewhere?

You can probably get it from your LDS but they will probably have to order it in, alternatively you can ring buddy and buy it from them.

Personally I would get it from Buddy as their spares backup is so good

[BogSnorkeller]

Thank you all for your input. Sorry that I didn't state my question clearly. I have recently acquired an old style Buddy BCD. It is the kind with orange fabric all over. It has the corrugated hose attached. I need an LP hose to connect the inflator to the first stage. I was asking how long the hose I will be needing. Also as I was searching for answers on the net, I noticed that the Buddy inflator has a non-standard kind of LP hose coupling. So do I need to call AP Valves for this coupling or can I buy it somewhere?

Thank you again.

A.P. Valves use two different types of coupling, so you will need to know which type you have. If you've got an AutoAir inflator (i.e. the one that acts as a regulator and allows you either to breathe from your main cylinder or from your 'crack bottle' fitted to your BCD) then you will need an EV50 hose. Otherwise, you'll want an AP50 hose.

Both hoses come in 24, 31 or 37 inch lengths. I picked up the AP Valves catalogue at the dive show, and the prices for the different lengths of AP50 are £30.91, £32.89 and £34.87. For the EV50, they are £36.42, £37.88 and £40.46.

If your local shop doesn't stock them, you can get them from A.P. Valves on 01326 561040. A.P. are renowned for their good customer service so it's always worth giving them a call if you have any queries.

[hon]

Great help! Thanks guys.