Re: Annual scuba regulator maintence-opinions requested.

Posted by Chris on November 24, 2003 at 21:26:26:

In Reply to: Annual scuba regulator maintence-opinions requested. posted by Mojo Mike on November 23, 2003 at 02:56:26:

I have had problems with incorrectly adjusted, or improperly serviced regulators. My dissatisfaction with “authorized” service led me to begin working on my own regulators. This is not hard, but requires special tools that are not always easily obtained. I have complete sets of tools for my Poseidon, Scubapro, and US Divers Regs. If you do work on your own regs it is best to use the manufacturers service kits, because o-rings vary in material and durometer ratings, and it is vital to use the proper ones.
I also share SLANG's concern that the most likely cause of a failure would be due to the servicing itself, and thus for the first stage especially I believe that disassembly should by kept to a minimum. However I also share Ken’s concern about improperly working equipment, and one should not dive with equipment that is not properly working.
Before EVERY dive trip I check all of my gear thoroughly and either fix problems or choose a back up. I try to devote at least 6 hours to checking gear, making adjustments, and packing. Before an overseas trip I begin my equipment checks at least a month in advance, so I have time to take care of problems.
For Regulators I check:

• inspect hoses for cracks, bulges, and cuts
• inspect the first stage filter for corrosion
• check the intermediate pressure
  • for absolute value (135-150 depending on reg)
  • for stability
  • for stability recovery time
• check for leaks at hose connections
• for leaks at the HP pressure gauge spool
• I check the pressure gauge
• check the batteries on the primary and back-up computer

• check the inflator
  fill button does not leak
  • fill button works
  • no air leaks where IP hose attaches
• check to see if it holds air
• check to see if dump/over pressure valves are tight.
• inspect hose for cuts & cracks
• check buckles and clips
  
  For my weight belts I check to see if the buckles function properly and the belts are not frayed.
  I also check fin & mask straps, check lights.
  Check my wetsuit for holes and tears, and patch.
  I check to see if my games bags open and close easily, and are not ripped or bent.
  And when I plan on using my underwater camera I spend 2-4 hours checking it, packing it. I start several days before making sure all of my batteries are charged.
  
  
  

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  Follow Ups:
  

  • Preventive maintenance, Scheduled maintenance and Breakdown maintenance Mojo Mike 00:47:31 11/25/03 (1)
    • Re: Preventive maintenance, Scheduled maintenance and Breakdown maintenance Nanda 23:28:35 01/04/04 (0)
  
  

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