Atomic Authorized service vs. good and inexpensive regulator service

[Wookie]

Slightly OT but ...

Most of the parts in a service kits are o-rings. They can be properly sourced and will work which is why the cost of the service kits gravels many people (the availability issue aside). But things like HP / LP seats are typically specific to the reg mfg. So you are kinda stuck in most but not all cases.

I too have wondered about the mfg reg repair "courses" offered at DEMA. They seem a bit quick. Especially, when it comes to other industry courses like cylinder inspection courses that last all day. But after that they are a certified tech for that mfg. I learned everything I know from Pete and Vance . And in servicing regs that I bought used I have seen some oddities that lets say would not meet specs.

To answer the OP's question. If you are comfortable with the non-authorized route and do not need parts like seats I would say go for it. He may well have more experience than the "authorized" tech.

I think that the one day service courses offered at DEMA are designed for the technician that already is a service technician. My ScubaPro course a million years ago took a full day, and all that was covered was the 2, 10, 10+, 15, and 20 first stages, and the 190, 200, 250, and D400 seconds. My Atomic course was 4 hours, but it was the first year Dean offered it, and it was the T1, no x's, no B, Z, or M. I think we all noted that the Ti bore a striking resemblance to a Mk20. I don't think that a reg technician course is or should be designed to make you a regulator repair specialist. It's designed to give you hands on experience with a particular manufacturers equipment, and to tick off a liability box. You are expected to come into the course already a regulator repair guru.

Of course, the way the scuba industry has gotten, my cat could take the course and folks would expect her to be a reg guru right out of the box.

 

[Scared Silly]

That is a good observation about the courses. What are the expectations or really reqs. for taking it. To my knowledge there are none so I would guess there are mix of people taking it. Those who have previous knowledge and are taking it to check off the insurance requirements and those who are just starting out.

Of course with Atomics if you know to service the T1 you pretty much know how to service all of their regs. Which is really nice. I would advise not letting your cat take the course - mine decided that my vintage double hose reg was objectionable and dumped it on the floor denting the can!!

 

[akeegan2]

A couple of highly respected tech divers on the forum (fdog) recommend utilizing Atomic directly for servicing. I sort of get a warm feeling about this idea. Just an FYI...

I've had an Atomic Z2X now for one week, haven't dove it yet, spent HOURS researching it, gathering documentation, so now I'm an expert.

I have always disassembled everything I have ever dove to pieces, until it couldn't be taken apart anymore. Just because. However, I will never disassemble my Z2X beyond removing the 2nd cover. The special tools involved, the engineering intricacy documented in the manuals really preclude a novice from tearing this reg set down. Plus there is some chatter on this board about making sure only a good tech services this reg. Given Atomic's courtesy in allowing a customer to ship a product directly back to them for service (unlike SCUBAPRO, et. al), why wouldn't I take advantage of this system? Why have nagging doubts as to whether my LDS did a good job on service or not? And I've heard Atomic has fast turnaround.

 

[Atomic Aquatics]

Hello Akeegan2...thanks for the kind words! We pride ourselves in being available for our consumers. I agree, one our biggest advantages in the industry is our willingness/open door for consumers to send back the regulator to us. The same technician that built the first stage services it. The same technician that built the second stage services it. Then they get hooked up to the same machines to test performance. It is a win-win! Our turnaround time most of the year is roughly two weeks. This, however, does change around the busier times-Christmas and summer. We are always here to help out...call us any time: 888-270-8595.

Atomic

 

[Sakoboy]

I figured instead of starting a new thread I might as well just revive this one.

I bought a T2X (1st & 2nd) from a fellow diver on this board and he told me that it only has 25 dives on it.
Not that I don't believe him but if I'm going to trust my life to this reg I'm going to have it serviced by the right people, period.
So my question is this, do I just box up the first and second stage properly and ship it to Atomic headquarters, do I write a note, do I call, what is the process?
I'm sure it's not pocket change to have this done but can you really put a price on your own life... I think not.

Thanks
Johnny

 

[Dr. Lecter]

Rather than have it serviced, you may just want to take it to an authorized tech and have them inspect it. If all is in working order, you're good to go at much less than the cost of a service. If not, then you can call AA.

 

[eelnoraa]

never mind

 

[Sakoboy]

Anybody know the cost of a full service on a 1st & 2nd from AA?

 

[Scared Silly]

How far are you from: Ontario Scuba Diving Courses| Scuba Diving Equipment| Technical Diving Courses| Snorkeling Equipment Canada| Learn to dive scuba dive classes padi I would do as said above and have the regs looked at rather than sending them off. A good reg tech can / will teach you a few things to check on your own.

 

[Atomic Aquatics]

Hi Sakoboy....We often get consumers sending back their Atomic's to us for service.....We definitely encourage it. In your case, I would really encourage getting it inspect, if not serviced. If you would like to have us service it in Huntington Beach, the cost for a 1st and 2nd stage is $146.90. This includes our service kits and labor. Our goal is to make it breath and perform like new. Once everything is cleaned, we will service and repair, and then place it in our dive simulator to make sure it is up to spec!

Thanks to everyone with great advice and help in ALL of our forums!

Atomic Aquatics