How to clean SPG threads and pin

[BeCool]

I was wondering if it's easy to clean my SPG threads (corrosion) and a little pin that you can pull out from the SPG? The little pin has two tiny o-rings on it I think. I saw that my SPG actually has an inlet coupling that you can unscrew it and possibly get to the inside of it. Is this ok to do or will I de-calibrate my gauge by doing so? The threads on my SPG is dirty and corroded that's why I wanted to clean it. Hope to hear from someone who has done this before without damaging the SPG.

Thanks

 

[TSandM]

I would think that you could immerse the threads alone in an ultrasonic cleaner, without damaging the gauge, although I haven't done it.

I used to clean the spindle and replace the o-rings, but I found out it only costs a few dollars to replace the entire thing, so I do that now.

 

[Randy43068]

ultrasonic cleaner, a dilute solution of toilet bowl cleaner, or reg cleaner from Global ( which is acid just like toilet bowl cleaner )

I use dilute solution of toilet bowl cleaner a brush and then a rinse and a quick soak in some baking soda dissolved in water.

Before all you know it all folks jump on me for recommending toilet bowl cleaner, check the contents of it against regulator cleaner similar to what Global sells.

 

[FishOutUvH2O]

I use a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water. Simple and effective for cleaning corrosion off of just about any metal. Just make sure you rinse the solution off with fresh water when you're done cleaning and/or soaking.

 

[JBRES1]

You can clean the outside of the gauge, but DO NOT get liquid on the inside of the gauge. You could soak the gauge while still attached to the hp hose in whatever you wish to clean the exposed surfaces , then use a tooth brush to remove any build up.
I clean the threads with a tooth bruch and tooth picks and vinegar.

Jim breslin

 

[Randy43068]

won't hurt it Jim, just blow it out with air. It's only a tube going into the spg, not some rocket science gizmo.

 

[swade_8]

As we speak I'm attempting to fix my leaking SPG hose. This past weekend I popped an O-ring and had to miss a dive. I ordered a new hose and a 20 piece save a dive O-ring kit. I followed all the directions on here and replaced both O-rings on the spindle, cleaned and lubed it and reinstalled it. While it was apart I also cleanded the hose and SPG where it sits. Unforunatly it leaked again. I then replaced the whole hose, heck I had it anyways so why not. I tried the last 2 new O-rings from the kit and it still leaked. Perhaps there is some step that I'm missing or perhaps the O-rings are not the correct size I'm not really sure. All I know is it's supposed to be 90 on Sunday and I'd much rather be under water then relaxing on the beach!!

 

[redacted]

Assuming your leak is from the threaded connection of the HP hose to the SPG, cleaning the spool, seating surfaces in the hose and gauge, and the spool; and replacing the o-rings should have done it. When that fails and visual inspection does not reveal any faults, it's probably time to start doing some parts replacement. I'd start with the spool. they can be a little delicate and a small crack in one of the glands could produce the problem you are experiencing. That would be my prime suspect. If your shop is supportive, it is probably best to just get a new spool and try it. Otherwise, a good buddy might let you use his gear to swap parts and find the culprit.

We may be hitting 90 here in TX too; if a cold front comes through.

 

[Bubbletrubble]

As we speak I'm attempting to fix my leaking SPG hose. This past weekend I popped an O-ring and had to miss a dive. I ordered a new hose and a 20 piece save a dive O-ring kit. I followed all the directions on here and replaced both O-rings on the spindle, cleaned and lubed it and reinstalled it. While it was apart I also cleanded the hose and SPG where it sits. Unforunatly it leaked again. I then replaced the whole hose, heck I had it anyways so why not. I tried the last 2 new O-rings from the kit and it still leaked. Perhaps there is some step that I'm missing or perhaps the O-rings are not the correct size I'm not really sure. All I know is it's supposed to be 90 on Sunday and I'd much rather be under water then relaxing on the beach!!

@swade_8: At this point, I'd recommend that you take it into your LDS and ask for help. awap is correct that it's likely a cracked HP spool. AFAIK, there are three different styles of HP spool so make sure that you get the correct replacement part. I suppose you could give it one more try.

FYI, I gave up on those o-ring kits a while ago. Most of those kits are just a container full of o-rings (no sizes listed on the outside of the box). I think it's better to learn what sizes you need for your gear, make a list of which size o-rings go where, and order the o-rings separately. This way you ensure that you have what you need (size, material, hardness/durometer) and can keep the o-rings organized for finding them quickly (I use tiny ziploc bags). FWIW, I'm partial to EPDM o-rings which have an indefinite shelf-life and are O2-compatible.

 

[swade_8]

Thanks for the heads up. I'll give those couple things a shot. I also picked up some pipe cleaners on the way home to make sure I'm getting the inside of the gauge fitting spotless. I also went through and measured the O rings today when they arrived as Mcmaster has ones you can order for pennies a piece. Packages of 100 were less than $3 each, far more than I'll ever need but I'm sure to be a hit with all my friends!! I also found a few lists on here for a DIY O'ring kit so that should help confirm my measurements. Thanks a ton!!