Aqualung Airsource 3 BCD Inflator

Aqualung Airsource 3 BCD Inflator and Alternate Regulator

Combine BCD inflation and alternate-air capability with the Aqualung Airsource 3. Its balanced second stage sits at the inflator position, while the Trim Grip gives you a separate exhaust control along the hose. It suits divers who want this combined layout and are trained in its donation procedure.

Features and benefits

• Balanced second stage. Pneumatic balancing reduces the force needed to open the demand valve, helping the second stage respond smoothly as you inhale.
• Separate Trim Grip exhaust. The exhaust control sits along the corrugated hose, allowing buoyancy adjustment while the breathing unit remains in your mouth.
• Inflation cut-off control. The slide control lets you interrupt the inflation supply while retaining the unit’s breathing function, following the manual’s procedure.
• Flexible supply-hose routing. The Flexi-hose bends readily, with clips and recesses to organise the supply hose along the inflator assembly.
• Detachable for packing. The bayonet connection at the Trim Grip lets the breathing unit separate from the BCD for transport with the regulator.
• Comfo-Bite mouthpiece. The silicone palate bridge supports the second stage with less need to clench your jaw, which can make longer dives more comfortable.

Setup and compatibility

Check BCD attachment and medium-pressure hose compatibility before fitting. A qualified technician should configure and check the complete system. Use the alternate-air procedure appropriate to a combined inflator and your training.

Practise the air-sharing procedure for a combined inflator and alternate regulator with your instructor. The short BCD-hose position changes how the unit is used compared with a conventional octopus.

Care, rinsing and storage

After each dive, connect the assembled regulator to a scuba cylinder and open the valve to pressurise the system. Keep it pressurised while fully submerging the first stage, second stages, the attached alternate-air inflator and connected supply hoses in fresh water. This allows thorough cleaning of the exposed components and hoses while helping prevent water entering the internal air passages, where it can cause corrosion and damage. Keep the cylinder secure throughout cleaning.

For routine cleaning, Dive Gear Australia recommends Cressi Neoclean Wetsuit Wash Neoprene Cleaner 500 mL or Revivex Wetsuit Shampoo 10 oz to help remove salt, chlorine and everyday residue. Dilute according to the cleaner’s label, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water.

Keep the regulator pressurised throughout washing and rinsing. Lift it out of the water and dry the first stage and cylinder connection before closing the cylinder valve, releasing the pressure and disconnecting. Fit the clean, dry dust cap, then allow the regulator to dry in the shade. Store it with the hoses loosely curved, without sharp bends or tension.

Follow the BCD manual separately for cleaning its bladder and corrugated hose. Before each dive, inspect the mouthpiece, hoses and connections, and check both breathing and inflation controls. Have your regulator serviced by an authorised Aqualung technician at the interval specified in its manual, or sooner if it leaks, is damaged or its breathing performance changes. Leave internal adjustments and repairs to a qualified technician.