Avid BC problem

[jjek]

I've had a Avid BC for about 5 years, 200+ dives. During the latest dive trip I noticed, that both MiniPac clamps holding the tank straps were totally cracked (luckily while muck diving, not in the middle of nasty currents of my previous trip).
This is very unexpected (well, unacceptable) phenomenon after only some 200 dives, especially considering that my buddy has logged 400+ dives using an older model of AVID without any problems.
The BC has been used in tropical waters only and maintained using the normal procedures.

Anyone familiar with similar problems, any suggestions?

 

[padudle]

Hello Jjek, That sounds like a manufacturing defect. I have an Avid and my wife a different Sherwood BC with the same tank band arrangement. Because of your post I checked both of our BC's and they look sound. We both have over 300 dives without any wear in that area. It looks to me that those hard rubber strap feedthroughs are easily replaced. Contact any Sherwood dealer and get those parts replaced. Good luck.