Dacor Reg Servicing

[Aggiebq86]

Last year I purchased a set up from a charity auction to benefit SUDS. It includes:a Seaquest Infinity Reg, a Dacor Pacer XLT octo, and a Oceanic Prodigy dive computer. I figured if I couldn't use the gear, at least the money would go to a good cause. I'm now looking for someone to check these units out and service them. I first checked w/ Scuba Toys since I came across them when I did a Google search and the Mares/Dacor trade in from a couple of years ago came up. They said parts weren't available for either reg. Does anyone have suggestions for who can check these units out? My LDS won't service the Dacor and I'm looking for someone to check them both out.

 

[Bubbletrubble]

You will have problems sourcing overhaul kits and replacement parts for the Dacor octo.
You shouldn't have any issues getting the Seaquest Infinity and Oceanic Prodigy serviced.

If you are intent on using the reg setup, I'd recommend replacing the octo with a second stage that is easy to service. It's probably best to go with the same brand as the first/second stage you already own (Seaquest/Aqualung). This will simplify reg servicing in the future. You can purchase a used octo on Ebay or Craigslist for $50 or less, depending on how patient you are.

Another option is to purchase a new octo from a reputable online retailer like ScubaToys.

Once you've replaced your octo, take advantage of ScubaToys' current reg service deal ($50 all in -- includes the cost of overhaul parts and labor). You can't beat it. Bear in mind that this doesn't cover the replacement of parts not included of the overhaul kit, e.g., mouthpieces, second stage diaphragms, other broken metal parts, exhaust valves, broken exhaust tee, etc. The reg will be returned to you in a ready-to-dive condition. If you want the battery replaced in the Prodigy computer, let the guys at ScubaToys know. They'll do that servicing for a nominal fee (<$10).

If you are intent on using the Dacor octo, you will likely have to go the DIY route. You'll need to figure out where to source the o-rings and low pressure seats on your own. This can be challenging even if you know what you're doing. I wouldn't recommend that a beginner diver do this.

Thanks for supporting SUDS. From everything I've heard about it, it sounds like a worthwhile cause.

 

[knowone]

http://rubicon-foundation.org/dspace/bitstream/123456789/4259/1/ADA186590.pdf

 

[Couv]

Dacor parts and service:

See these threads for contacts who have parts and or can service older Dacor models

http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/4059475-post5.html
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/5416262-post20.html

and if you're into DIY see this excellent thread in the DIY section:
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/repairing-your-own-gear/357801-more-complete-dacor-regulator-manual-volume-3-a.html

 

[Aggiebq86]

@knowone - What of the 260 pages do I need to check out?

 

[DA Aquamaster]

If I recall correctly, the XLT used a seat carrier similar to the XLB but without the balance feature, and the seat was I think removeable. If that's the case, you can find generic second stage seats that will fit from Trident. Dacor tended to use second stage seats that were the same diameter as others, just thicker.

Also, Let me check and see if we still have an annual service kit for an XLT.

 

[Zung]

Yes, you can use the Trident part #A119 seat, or you can punch your own with awap's magic punch.

According to aquaregia, the Dacor seat is 7 mm diameter by 2 mm thick. The Trident and the awap seats are 1.6 mm thick: that shouldn't be a problem.

 

[Aggiebq86]

I'm fairly mechanically inclined so I think I could do this work. Where can I get more information regarding a repair manual, parts, theory, etc. for these regs?

 

[Zung]

Get THE book. The Dacor is a very good place to start DIY'ing, because it's a simple downstream second stage and does not require any special tools, AFAIK. Just take you time and don't force/break anything. If there's any resistance, soak the think in warm soapy water for days: it'll give in; if not, give it the hot/cold treatment, alternating between hot water and your freezer.

 

[Aggiebq86]

Thanks. I took the regs into my LDS today. The Seaquest appears to be working ok when hooked to a tank. The Dacor free flows though. I'll check into the book.