Back in 2019, I posted a youtube video about the seemly similar, but actually different K type inflator valves commonly found on wing systems.
Since that video, another variant has hit the market. Rather than updating the video, I have posted the information about this new variant. I am posting it here as well.
Since this video, in 2020, a third version has appeared. This is an OEM inflator made by Ocean Diving Systems and used by some BCD manufacturers. It is distinguished by grey inflation and deflation buttons. It also has a manufacturer code of ODS and a date stamp on the rim of the inflator assembly cartridge.
This k inflator cannot be easily disassembled for oring maintenance. BCD manufacturers who use this inflator, recommend not attempting to service the orings and to just replace the entire inflator or inflator cartridge assembly. You cannot be guaranteed to be able to find a compatible inflator or inflator cartridge on a trip. So, your choice in this situation is to either carry an additional inflator or inflator cartridge on any trip.
Alternatively, you can replace the non-serviceable inflator cartridge with one that can be disassembled and serviced. Fortunately, the plastic inflator housing is sufficiently compatible with other versions of this for the serviceable inflator cartridges to be a direct replacement. This is the approach which we recommend.
Since that video, another variant has hit the market. Rather than updating the video, I have posted the information about this new variant. I am posting it here as well.
Since this video, in 2020, a third version has appeared. This is an OEM inflator made by Ocean Diving Systems and used by some BCD manufacturers. It is distinguished by grey inflation and deflation buttons. It also has a manufacturer code of ODS and a date stamp on the rim of the inflator assembly cartridge.
This k inflator cannot be easily disassembled for oring maintenance. BCD manufacturers who use this inflator, recommend not attempting to service the orings and to just replace the entire inflator or inflator cartridge assembly. You cannot be guaranteed to be able to find a compatible inflator or inflator cartridge on a trip. So, your choice in this situation is to either carry an additional inflator or inflator cartridge on any trip.
Alternatively, you can replace the non-serviceable inflator cartridge with one that can be disassembled and serviced. Fortunately, the plastic inflator housing is sufficiently compatible with other versions of this for the serviceable inflator cartridges to be a direct replacement. This is the approach which we recommend.