New to DIN, what do I need to know?

[dflaher]

I just purchased a DIN regulator (first time owner of one). I have a few questions:
1) Does the external O-ring that seals the first stage to the tank valve need to be lubricated?
2) How does one safely remove the O-ring for lubrication or replacement? Will a pick work?
3) I know that my O-ring is a size 112. Is this a common size in s Save-A-Dive kit or should I just buy a few extras?
4) How do you other DIN reg owners remember the dust cap? I understand I can put it in my dry bag while I'm diving, but let's say I'm diving with a full-service operation that handles my gear...I guess I will need to either attach it or breakdown my gear myself which is not a problem at all.

Thanks!

 

[rhwestfall]

1. No
2. Because you don't, don't. Replacement - pick
3. Typically can be in a SAD kit but make sure.
4. Find a happy place... Be resourceful... Do you wear shoes to the boat/dive op? Put a clip on it and attach it to or put it in your shoe...

 

[Bigbella]

I would also ensure that the tank valve is completely dry by slightly venting it before attaching any regulator, since the valve “well” is particularly deep and, if uncovered, prone to the accumulation of moisture, accidental or otherwise — nothing that you really want blown into your first stage at 250 bar.

Additionally, invest in a couple of Delrin plugs with o-rings for the DIN (avoid the aluminum, like a cold sore -- too prone to corrosion / electrolytic issues with the steel valve threads and a colossal pain to remove), since they are oddly on the delicate side, easily distorted; and one sideways tumble on a boat or blacktop, if clumsy or unattended, is enough to trash the connection, which I had learned the hard way, years ago . . .

 

[dflaher]

by slightly venting it before attaching any regulator,

Is this done by turning on the valve and letting a little air out?

 

[BoltSnap]

I would also ensure that the tank valve is completely dry by slightly venting it before attaching any regulator, since the valve “well” is particularly deep and, if uncovered, prone to the accumulation of moisture — nothing that you really want blown into your first stage at 250 bar . . .

This ^^^^^ important!!

Just make sure that you don't blow whatever was in the valve "well" in your eyes or somebody else's eyes.

 

[BoltSnap]

Is this done by turning on the valve and letting a little air out?

Yes, quickly so not to waste air and don't make too much noise.

 

[dflaher]

How is a Nitrox tank analyzed, if it has a DIN valve? Will a yoke analyzer work for both types?

 

[inquis]

I'm guessing that what you're calling a "yoke analyzer" has a round end with a hole in it. Yes, that works for a DIN valve.

Many analyzers can be plugged into the LP inflator hose with an adapter. I prefer this for recreational diving, as I get mix and pressure (i.e., tank is full) more or less at once.

 

[dflaher]

I'm guessing that what you're calling a "yoke analyzer" has a round end with a hole in it.

Correct, thanks.

 

[Belzelbub]

How is a Nitrox tank analyzed, if it has a DIN valve? Will a yoke analyzer work for both types?

It will depend a bit on the actual analyzer and how it's supposed to be used.

The analyzer at my local shop is mounted to a regulator with SPG and an air nozzle to bleed pressure rapidly when done. It has a DIN fitting. It also has a DIN to yoke adapter for analyzing the yoke tanks.

My personal analyzer was originally designed to just hold up a T to the tank valve. Would work with either Yoke or DIN. I didn't like it as it was noisy and always felt like I was wasting gas. I modified it to connect to the LP inflator on my regulator. So, I just attach my regulator to the tank to analyze. My tanks and regs are DIN, but if needed, could just slap on the Yoke adapter for a yoke tank.