Mares Proton Octo - chuck it?

[Tiptopperoo]

Hi Mares people!
I have had the Mares Proton (plastic) octo for 8 months, it now just free flows at 100% when you touch the purge button, or jump in the sea! Our tec has had a look at it and says it needs a full rebuild, hes tried adjusting crack pressure, springs, levers etc (I clearly don't really know what I'm talking about, but he does)

He has had numerous problems with proton regulators and reckons I should just chuck mine out and buy an abyss octo or something more reliable. What do you think, is it just gonna keep having problems? I'm gonna send it back to Scubatoys first to have them check it out, but if they give me the option of paying to upgrade to a metal abyss octo I think I may take it.

Are these regs renowned for being unreliable?

 

[Ken abucs]

I know mine is very temperamental. I'm looking for a new solution too.

 

[Zak OHara]

I would not chuck it. 90% of all octo's operate under the same principle, the Proton is no different. It is merely an adjustment that needs to occurr to fix your problem. If it holds air prior to jumping in the water or depressing the purge button, then all HP and LP seats are in working order. I would then assess it is just set too sensitive, this could be demand lever height, or how deep the seat is set. Either way if everything is set properly, you should not experience any freeflowing, especially if you are using the proprietary Mares octo holder that came with your original purchase.

I would consider the rebuild prior to making it a new paper weight. I use mine and have no problems.

Sincerely,

 

[Tiptopperoo]

Thanks Zak. I am gonna send it back to where I bought it from, and have them sort it out. If they rebuild or replace then cool, if not I will look for another solution.

-Dave

 

[Zak OHara]

You are welcome Dave. Good luck.

Sincerely,