Equipment Assembly

[waterdogs]

How difficult is it?

Question is when purchasing a new SPG can you install it yourself or do you have to take it to a LDS?

Same question applies to Reg and Octo?

I just didn't know if you decided to purchase another SPG would it be something you can install on your own?

thanks,

waterdogs

 

[pipedope]

It is easy to install a SPG.
You remove the plug from the HP port on the first stage and screw in the hose for the SPG.

You must also make sure that the o-ring is clean and lubed and that you tighten enough but not too tight.

It is a good idea to have a regulator tech show (or supervise you) the first time.

If you buy the SPG at the LDS then they will install it for you.

It is a little more involved if it needs to be O2 clean. )

michael

 

[waterdogs]

Thanks,

Is it just as easy to install reg and octo. Not servicing but installation. If I wanted to switch out gear I wanted to make sure I didn't have to run to the LDS everytime.

thanks again.

waterdogs

 

[pipedope]

Installing and/or changing these things is easy.
The major caution is to be sure that low pressure devices are NEVER connected to the HP port.

Do you really want to make changes that often?
It is generally better to stick to one setup so that you don't have to think about what your gear is.

BTW Be sure to use the proper wrench on the fittings.

michael

 

[Uncle Pug]

Originally posted by waterdogs
If I wanted to switch out gear I wanted to make sure I didn't have to run to the LDS everytime.

Just depends...
Are you mechanically inept???
A klutz when it comes to *fixing things*???

If so, then the best bet is to make the trip to the LDS.

But if you are reasonably familiar with tools and handy with *fixing things* then it souldn't pose a problem.

Things to watch out for:
~cross threading and messing up the reg body, hose end or both...
~hose to second stage requires you to hold valve hex with a wrench while loosening or tightening the hose hex...
~over torquing and stripping threads or damaging sealing surfaces...
~under torquing and have hoses back out from regulator handling...
~dirt, contamination, nicks or worn o-rings...
~hoses in the wrong location...

I carry extra hoses with me for each application and can also make up LP hoses at home...
So to me it is no big deal.... but then I am both handsome & handy

I agree with pipedope that you might want to have your LDS show you how the first time.

 

[TexasMike]

A primary reg and octo are as easy to install as the SPG described above.

However, IMO, it's worth having a tech do it since they can ensure that the correct intermediate pressure between the 1st and 2nd stages is set correctly.

 

[pipedope]

Hey, the tender just turns the knob of the regulator on the dive console to set the proper IP for the working depth ....

OOPS There I go on surface supplied again.

)

michael

 

[Uncle Pug]

Originally posted by pipedope
OOPS There I go on surface supplied again.

It is a whole other way of *diving* isn't it Michael...
Some of the skills used with SS are antithetical to scuba...
For example weighting, trim, buoyancy and finning...
What works and is necessary for one...
Is absolutely the opposite for the other...

 

[pipedope]

There are interesting contrasts between scuba and surface supplied.

First, weight;

scuba - Be sure you don't have too much!
SS - Make damn sure you have more than enough!

Air supply;

scuba - duration limited by tank size and diver breathing rate
SS - plenty of air, duration limited by size of job, endurance of diver, hunger, etc.

Records;

scuba - try to remember everything until you can write it down in the log
SS - Diving supervisor and tender keep detailed logs on the surface. Depanding on the job you might also have audio/video tapes.

I could go on but I don't want to bore everyone to death.



To quickly sum up for *working* underwater surface supplied is usually the way to go. For sightseeing scuba has a lot going for it.
I love them both.

michael

 

[Norm]

Four hard tugs on the line....I've gotta go!