19
Donning Procedure
Diving equipment is heavy! To avoid injury or fatigue and to
become familiar with each other's equipment, have your buddy assist
you! Take this opportunity to be sure your buddy understands how your
weight release works.
Be sure you have read and performed the Proper Fit page in the Fitting and
Assembly section of this manual first.
• Open cylinder band buckles and loosen bands.
• Align system so that the top of the bladder assembly is even with the
cylinder valve (slightly higher or lower may be required depending on the
diver’s size and the type of tank, this is a good starting point).
• Make sure that the two sets of bands are in vertical alignment with your
tank and not twisted to one side.
• Pull bands snug and close buckles. Secure loose end of bands on touch
fastener.
• Connect regulator to cylinder valve and finish assembling system per
manufacturer’s instructions.
• Be sure you are familiar with the low pressure inflator system on your
Zeagle BC. Inflate the system and check for leakage.
• Weights can be installed in the weight pockets before the BC is donned or
after. It may be easier to add your weights after you have the system on
avoiding lifting the tank and weights together. Considerations include the
amount of weight and the distance to enter the water. Ask your buddy for
help in either case.
• Loosen shoulder straps.
• Have your buddy balance the system while you put it on like a jacket.
• Remember, the system should be worn low with the bottom of the vest at
the top of your hips
• Fasten side panels and/or waist band.
Extend the side panels as far as possible before wrapping around your body
Be sure to get the waist tight.
• Fasten the sternum strap and adjust.
If wearing a drysuit, be sure that the sternum strap does not obstruct the
drysuit inflator hose or valve.
• Adjust shoulder straps.
• Fasten split saddle strap if your system is so equipped.
