upgrade BCD from ranger to BM/SM configuration

[Crazy_Canuck]

looking to upgrade from Zeagle ranger to Backmount / Sidemount BCD. any thoughts? i thought about modifying my Ranger to do this but i am concerned about trim issues. What are your thoughts about upgrading. and to what? i have master diver cert and looking to maybe get into more tec/cavern/cave diving and need more air at times but still need to BM at times. or dive Monkey i guess. Thoughts please?

 

[Ken T]

I believe the Hollis SMS 75 and 100 can be fitted for back mount.

I tried the OMS sidemount adaptor on a BP/W system with some success, but ultimately purchased a sidemount only BCD.

 

[tbone1004]

You will not be allowed to use the OMS sidemount adapter in a cave with most instructors. It is a surprisingly legit system, but it's dangerous in an overhead due to the rigid plate.

Keep your ranger for backmount, buy a proper sidemount rig for sidemount.

 

[Coztick]

Look at the UTD Alpha/Delta wing and harness. This is what I have and so far it's perfect.
Finally took it for a spin locally with a drysuit. I just removed the bunggees from the little loop on the wing (for bm) and my trim was spot on with neutral fins...
Haven't tried steel tanks yet...

 

[claymore]

The Dive Rite Nomad XT also does back mount and side mount. It is more suited to cold water diving and or with multiple tanks.

 

[DevonDiver]

You will not be allowed to use the OMS sidemount adapter in a cave with most instructors. It is a surprisingly legit system, but it's dangerous in an overhead due to the rigid plate.

You don't have to use a solid plate with the OMS (or any hybrid). You can easily fit a soft-plate, such as the Oxycheq, Zeagle or Transpac.

List of Hybrid Sidemount Systems

Keep your ranger for backmount, buy a proper sidemount rig for sidemount.

I agree.... you can't beat a dedicated sidemount system. Just be aware that the sidemount rig selected should be optimal for the diving you will undertake, especially in regards to the cylinders you will use (read: The Two Schools Of Sidemount Design Heritage).

There's plenty of choice....and some are very economical...

Comprehensive List of Sidemount BCDs

Some good bargains available at the moment:

British (Mexico Cave) style - ideal for aluminum cylinders - DECO SIDEMOUNT is available for $249.

American (Florida Cave) style - ideal for steel cylinders - HOG SIDEMOUNT is available for $199.

Either of these is comparable in cost to buying a sidemount hybrid/adapter, bungees, snaps and/or a soft backplate etc...