03-22-2016, 04:50 AM
Any of the skinny disposables are just that.... Disposable, but if they are still in the green it doesn't always mean they are charged. Many of them have sticking gauges after a few years so they could leak air and not necessarily show signs of it until you need it most. Also, check them to make sure the gauge shows charged. Again, many of them will leak over time, especially if subjected to very hot or very cold temps.
I see hundreds of these things a year while doing fire inspections and most are very reliable when used and good for one shot, but if your boat is moderate to decent sized, I would go with a rechargeable 5 pounder or better if you have the room. They are more money obviously, but they will last the life of your boat and can be recharged, hydro tested, repaired etc...and will usually have plenty of power to put out a decent fire.
I have seen a few boat fires where the small ones haven't been adequate on a decent fuel fire (that or the operator didn't know what they were doing), so size them according to your engine compartment and possible fire load if something were to happen.
Just my .02 cents.
Mike
[signature]
I see hundreds of these things a year while doing fire inspections and most are very reliable when used and good for one shot, but if your boat is moderate to decent sized, I would go with a rechargeable 5 pounder or better if you have the room. They are more money obviously, but they will last the life of your boat and can be recharged, hydro tested, repaired etc...and will usually have plenty of power to put out a decent fire.
I have seen a few boat fires where the small ones haven't been adequate on a decent fuel fire (that or the operator didn't know what they were doing), so size them according to your engine compartment and possible fire load if something were to happen.
Just my .02 cents.
Mike
[signature]