thanks for all the great input on my lj choice reqest. the link on being properly co2 arming was also helpful. decided on the auto/mannual combo. leave it in auto 99% of the time but as time and boats/conditions change i have the option. i.e i will be flying down to crewing in dec on a small catamaran once we finish builing/rigger her from sydney to the northshore of tassie and it is not as dry as my boat (H240) so I always have the option. do not try and swap between auto/manual with the c02 can on, a bang, the dog runs under the table, while you are standing in the living room well inflated with your new yellow collar surrounded by a startled family 
or just read the instructions better. thanks again.
or just read the instructions better. thanks again.