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From what I can tell the S600 second stage has undergone a couple different design iterations. I am trying to understand the mechanical differences between them and the advantages/disadvantages of each design. To start with, here are a couple photos of a few representative variants of the second stage (there are more, of course, but these seem to be the main ones):

The only schematics I was able to find were on Frogkick, but they only go back to 2004. I notice a couple differences between then 2001 and 2004 schematics. First, the mouthpiece retainer has changed to a side lock clamp. I am guessing that the sidelock clamp might be simpler to install and more reliable, but don't know if this is the case.
Second, the barrel seems to have gained a tab in 2004. I am curious about its function. Does anyone know what it does?

Finally, the most dramatic difference between the 2001 and 2004 model seems to be the balance chamber and spring adjustment knob assembly. This has undergone a cardinal redesign. I assume that the first design was very problematic and that required the overhaul. I wonder what the issues where and how the new design addresses them. Does anyone have an insight on this?
Perhaps there are more changes after 2004, but I can't find the schematics and bulletins to compare. If anyone has them, I will appreciate it if you could share.



The only schematics I was able to find were on Frogkick, but they only go back to 2004. I notice a couple differences between then 2001 and 2004 schematics. First, the mouthpiece retainer has changed to a side lock clamp. I am guessing that the sidelock clamp might be simpler to install and more reliable, but don't know if this is the case.


Second, the barrel seems to have gained a tab in 2004. I am curious about its function. Does anyone know what it does?


Finally, the most dramatic difference between the 2001 and 2004 model seems to be the balance chamber and spring adjustment knob assembly. This has undergone a cardinal redesign. I assume that the first design was very problematic and that required the overhaul. I wonder what the issues where and how the new design addresses them. Does anyone have an insight on this?


Perhaps there are more changes after 2004, but I can't find the schematics and bulletins to compare. If anyone has them, I will appreciate it if you could share.