Hi guys. I use an Apeks ATX40 with a DS4 on my stage cylinder and diving in cold water (16 deg C down to 2 in the Swedish winter). Last winter the second stage freeflowed often and this disappeared when water temperature became higher. I swapped the second stage for another one and decided to service the regulator myself with original Apeks o-rings and seat. Tested it again the last couple of weekends (water temps 10 degC) and no free flow. Unfortunately the air flow when inspiring does not stop at the end of inspiration and there is extra air coming in (and being wasted) with every breath. Somehow the sealing after air flow is not tight enough.
Adjusting the pressure on the rubber seat (by screwing in the seat) does not correct for that which leads me to believe that the problem is in the metal spring or in the 2mm o-ring that seals the shuttle valve to the counterbalance cylinder. Putting more grease on the o-ring does not help either. I have not been able to test the spring but I am now considering about replacing it if it could be the source of the problems. Any wise thoughts? Best regards
Jordi
Adjusting the pressure on the rubber seat (by screwing in the seat) does not correct for that which leads me to believe that the problem is in the metal spring or in the 2mm o-ring that seals the shuttle valve to the counterbalance cylinder. Putting more grease on the o-ring does not help either. I have not been able to test the spring but I am now considering about replacing it if it could be the source of the problems. Any wise thoughts? Best regards
Jordi