Life Vest

[Davey]

I have a West Marine Suspender Type PFD. Does any one know how often you should change the Co2, cartridge. I have had my vest about 3 years now and it has never been activated. What is life expectancy of charge cylinder?

 

[trasbeck]

The CO2 cylinder itself would last many years (more than 3) if not punctured. It could be weighed to verify its contents. What you need to watch in an automatic vest is the "bobbin" or wafer which dissolves to activate the vest. I have both a Mustang and Sosupenders vests which came with very specific instructions as to maintenance. I would contact West marine to see who manufactured your vest. The maker is the best sorce for this info.

 

[fridaysoff]

Davey,
I have a green tab on my automatic vest.I read the instructions and it said when it turns red to replace.