What to look for when buying used steel tanks

[Sasha_K]

I'm about to check out one used Steel 72 tank. I know it doesn't have current hydro, but I'm OK with that as the deal is good.

Anything in particular I should look for - i.e. rust or something else?

[SlvrDragon50]

Ask for all stamped and other markings - picture is best

[Splitlip]

Steel 72's are cool. I used them for 20 years. But unless you plan on doubling, I think there are better alternatives out there in the way of steel.

But to answer your question, surface rust does not necessarily mean a deal breaker.
What is the service presure of this one?

[Sasha_K]

I'm buying from non-divers so they don't know :-(. I asked over email if they can copy down the markings and am just hoping for the best.

In terms of alternatives - what do you have in mind. In terms of AL tanks, I'm a bit turned off with the whole negative buoyancy thing. Fair enough, there are AL tanks which are neutrally buoyant, but most of the used AL tanks I saw so far weren't neutrally buouant.

[ScubaToys Larry]

Just keep in mind... you might be getting into an old steel 72, which is not 72... without their plus rating, they hold just 67 cubic feet. And you may have to have it hydro, tumbled, vis, and a good chance the valve is not too good - many old steels have old J valves, and burst disks that are straight out instead of opposing - so not allowed any more.. so swap that out...

So by the time you're all done - you spend as much or more than buying a new aluminum tank, and just grab a 3 lb weight, toss it on the tank strap - and you're dealing with the same buoyancy and have more air.

[cummings66]

Yup to what Larry said, some of those old valves had what amounts to a bullet ready to fire at any time in them. Safe? Maybe, but what if it bursts and launches? I think seeing it in person or taking it by a shop for a vis is in order. The vis will reveal what it's going to take if anything to make it ready for usage.

[Rileybri]

To give you an Idea I just got a ST 72 w/+ rating current viz and hydro (6/08) and new burst disc on a functioning J valve for $40 with air. I would not pay much more than $50 for a working current ST72.

[RoyN]

Here is a website that should help you choose your tanks.

http://www.huronscuba.com/equipment/...ification.html

Make sure look at the weight of the tank as that will effect your buoyancy and trim.

As for a steel 72, I wouldn't get anything less then a steel 80 tank at least imho.

[ReefHound]

I buy a lot of used stuff and I'm a bit suspicious of people who claim to not know anything about what they are selling. In some cases it may be legit, but sometime I think people just play dumb in order to sell crap.

[Sasha_K]

I'm definitely re-thinking the decision now guys.

The deal is tempting - $25 only. The guy said he thinks the working pressure is around 2500. He does say it is an older tank, and needs hydro.

Here is the pic - I'm not sure if I can make out the valve out of it - anyone else with better eyes?