Inflatable pfd maintenance

skennelly

How often should we be replacing the arming kit on these things?  I've read every 2 years and replace the entire jacket after 10?

Does the arming mechanism go bad?

Willhound

Most have an indicator showing if the canister still has pressure. Individual makers likely have recommendations. Don't know if there's a USCG rule in it or not.
Mine are 5 years old and still showing green on the indicators.

skennelly

Yeah mine too still show green.  Was wondering if the dissolving triggers get old and not function properly.

Willhound

Don't think so. They're basically like an Al a Seltzer tab. Gets wet and dissolves. If it was bad they'd leak.

Willhound

Having said all that I do know lots of people that after two to three years they intentionally jump in to get a feel on how they work and then replace the cartridge and trigger. As for the jacket itself, as ling as no tears or rips or excessive UV damage I think you're good for quite a while. 

skennelly

Okay.  Cool.  I was going to manually inflate them this weekend and give a good once over.

Willhound

Most are not 100% tight and over tome will begin to lose air which is with that have a blow tube to keep full if in water for extended period of time. 

Dream_Inn

Willhound said:

Having said all that I do know lots of people that after two to three years they intentionally jump in to get a feel on how they work and then replace the cartridge and trigger. As for the jacket itself, as ling as no tears or rips or excessive UV damage I think you're good for quite a while. 

Exactly our plan this spring.  I bought replacement cartridge and trigger...just waiting for warmer spring water!

Black_Diamond

Great idea to wear one and test it.  Let’s you know how they work. 

As for the CO2 cartridges: they have an expiration date on them. 

Willhound

Black_Diamond said:

As for the CO2 cartridges: they have an expiration date on them. 

I might have known that and forgot. Thanks. Will have to check mine.