DIN Reg Thread Maintenance Lubrication

[JonnieB]

I find that over time, the threads on my DIN regulator become increasingly difficult to wind into my cylinder valves. Is there any recommendation to prevent this, i.e. lubricate them. Can I spray the threads with a light coating of scuba silicone spray?

 

[NothingClever]

Yeah, last weekend I struggled to get my DIN valve completely seated. Time to hit it with some vinegar and a toothbrush.

 

[happy-diver]

Rotary tool dry, crack valve to clean

or phosphoric acid, dunk in hot water crack valve to clean

No schpritzing no lube

 

[rhwestfall]

No to lube!

 

[Divin'Papaw]

I find that over time, the threads on my DIN regulator become increasingly difficult to wind into my cylinder valves. Is there any recommendation to prevent this, i.e. lubricate them. Can I spray the threads with a light coating of scuba silicone spray?

NO NO NO NO to lube!!! You need to lightly clean the threads as @NothingClever suggested, or have it serviced at which point they should clean it thoroughly in an ultrasonic cleaner. If it isn't due for service, use water and a toothbrush, possibly with some white vinegar, to clean up the salt buildup. Be sure and thoroughly rinse after and also, of course, do not get any water down into the opening.

 

[davehicks]

If it is that grimy, the best solution is to pull the valve and service it. This is very easy to DIY. DGX sells valve service kits and an Ultrasonic cleaner can be had for $50.

You will have a clean thread and an easy turning valve. Tank valves don't get enough attention, so use the opportunity to refresh it.

 

[Johnoly]

Rotary tool dry, crack valve to clean

I do the same, and use the Nylon soft brushes and just tighten them in a regular household drill at low speed. No scratching the chrome or the brass and it completely cleans out the salt/dirt/sand making it like new. The size is perfect for DIN valves and you get 18 brushes for $10 from Amaz on . In their search box just type in the code >> B086LJPKG7 and it will bring you right to the brush.

 

[Searcaigh]

Time to hit it with some vinegar and a toothbrush.

+1 I regularly do this once a month.

 

[JonnieB]

If it is that grimy, the best solution is to pull the valve and service it. This is very easy to DIY. DGX sells valve service kits and an Ultrasonic cleaner can be had for $50.

You will have a clean thread and an easy turning valve. Tank valves don't get enough attention, so use the opportunity to refresh it.

Just to be clear, are you talking about cleaning the threads on the regulator, cylinder valve, or both?

 

[JonnieB]

Thanks everyone for the replies...I do remember somewhere during my training about no lubrication in regulator and valve threads. Will give them the nylon brush and white vinegar treatment