Getting an old tank tested

[mark_d]

Just a quick question, I'm clearing out a load of old gear and I've got a couple of old 68/4500 tanks that are 5+ years out of test. I was going to give them away to a guy I know who's just getting started out and let him have them retested. Will there be any issue getting tanks that are that long out of test retested? Don't want to waste the guy's time if they're better off going in the bin.

 

[Tom]

Just a quick question, I'm clearing out a load of old gear and I've got a couple of old 68/4500 tanks that are 5+ years out of test. I was going to give them away to a guy I know who's just getting started out and let him have them retested. Will there be any issue getting tanks that are that long out of test retested? Don't want to waste the guy's time if they're better off going in the bin.

There should be no particular issue due to age as long as you don't have any worries that they are likely to fail. Viability depends on where they get them tested, how much it costs them and how long there is to the final date - however even if there is a short life then the cost of a test today is less than a new cylinder

 

[mark_d]

There should be no particular issue due to age as long as you don't have any worries that they are likely to fail. Viability depends on where they get them tested, how much it costs them and how long there is to the final date - however even if there is a short life then the cost of a test today is less than a new cylinder

Thanks for the quick reply mate. They were always used with covers so they're in great condition, I don't think they'd be likely to fail. My only concern was them being out of test for so long.

 

[dave t]

5+ years out of test

kinda implies the tanks are +10 years old already...the tanks only have a 15 year lifespan so check the death date before deciding wether its worth it

 

[mark_d]

kinda implies the tanks are +10 years old already...the tanks only have a 15 year lifespan so check the death date before deciding wether its worth it

Good point, I hadn't thought about that. I think they should still have a few years left in them, but I'll have a look to be sure.

 

[mark_d]

Had a look and their born on dates are 2005 and 2006, so a few years left in them yet it seems

 

[Tom]

Had a look and their born on dates are 2005 and 2006, so a few years left in them yet it seems

They will be good (once tested) to 2020 & 2021

I estimate lifetime value / cost at £150 new and 2 tests at £25 - £200 over 15 years, or £13.33 per year
So (after testing) pretty much roughly 'worth' about £50 for the older one with 4 years left, and about £65 for the newer one (then adjust up/down for second hand market forces)

If you are just giving them to him then he may get lucky on price arranged through a local dive centre for £15 to £25
Worst case prices I think are about £40 £50

You'll be doing a good deed and making a happy new player