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I called a place in Houston this morning: $225 to check it out, however, they gave me the name of a place right here in Kemah, Tx. Dont get much better than that. I called Triad Marine in Kemah. I was told that it would cost $100 to check it out. I got in my truck and 10 minutes later I was there. Now it gets better..... they will give it a quickie look to see if it needs any further investigation. The initial 'peek' was free. The ID tag on the case was missing part of it so I didnt know the date of manufacture. Had no idea how old. Anyway, they opened the case in front of me. The date on the gas bottle was 1995. The label on the liferaft was 1975. Based on the date, they told me that chances are that the old Zodiac was not worth further investigation. However, if i wanted to see them inflate it to see what happens, they would. They pulled the cord. The boat inflated and had a leak at the gas bottle fittings. They were right, it was not worth fixing. They wanted to know if i wanted them to dispose of it and I said "yes". I signed a form that states that they can dispose of it. They gave me the flashlight which was still working. Total cost: 30 minutes, zero dollars. When I buy a new one this fall, they will undoubtedly get my business. I wont even bother to check anywhere else. There is a lot to be said for honesty and friendlyness. Basically, i was told that a liferaft is good for 15 to maybe 20 years or a total of 5 re-certifications. The lifespan of recertifications is mainly due to the pressure testing of the fittings. Thanks again guys for your input. As always, it is gratefully accepted. Tony B
