Just a quick note on using an AL50 - if readjusting the cam band on your BCD is either difficult, or annoying, or both, be aware that cylinder has a smaller diameter than a "standard" AL80. Maybe you already know that, but just in case.Thanks for the response. Incidentally, I was leaning towards the LDS route from the beginning, but wanted some insight for my own edification. The ALU 50 is just to have a lighter tank to lug for pool training while I'm currently having some back problems.
Visual inspection of a new tank: I agree that in my experience, they new cylinder's big wordy label includes a "fine print" statement that it has been visually inspected. Which is all well and good, but when I sell a customer a new cylinder I do another VIP anyway, no added charge, for the following reasons:
- There is almost sure to be less than 12 months remaining since the original hydro/inspection date, and I do not want them to be inconvenienced by having to return "early" for the next VIP.
- I can't predict how another fill station operator will treat that fine print original sticker that is solely a VIP sticker, and I again don't want my customer inconvenienced, or even blaming me for the problem.
- In the very unlikely chance that there is a manufacturing flaw in the new cylinder, I want to know right away and get it returned/replaced right away, rather than waiting a year or more to even start the conversation with the manufacturer.
If someone brought me a new cylinder with an installed valve, no pressure, and a retailer's VIP sticker, then once I am assured it was a new purchase I would probably just want to look inside to be sure there was no water/moisture and then reinstall the valve and go ahead and fill. But do NOT expect it to be the norm that an LDS provides a "no charge" first VIP on your purchase from another source.