6.6 Removing a stuck tank-boot

In response to a question about how to remove a tank boot that is stuck I sent the following to rec.scuba:

I know of two pretty good methods. Number one:

1. Drill some holes in the plastic and thread strong nylon line through these holes.

2. Tie this line very securely to a big, stout tree.

3. Back your one-ton pickup to the tree.

4. Jack the rear of the pickup up as high as you can.

5. Tie the tank valve as tight as you can to the rear bumper of the truck.

6. Kick the truck off the jack. Voila!

And method number two:

1. Same as above. Drill holes in the plastic and tie on good line.

2. Tie as much lead as you can to the tank valve.

3. With this in tow, climb El Capitan, Leaning Tower, Half Dome, or some similar big wall. Preferably by the most technically demanding mixed free and aid route possible (gotta do this with style, after all).

4. From the top, tie the line from the boot on to a 300 foot length of static line.

5. Kick tank off the edge.

6. Don’t forget to go back the the base and collect what remains of the tank. Littering in national parks is a crime, you know.