Octo regulator identification

[ams511]

you can get a new cheap octo for $80 so why spend as much on all those parts, not to mention all the hassle of getting them, fixing it up, etc.

A quick search at Vintage Double Hose finds a Conshelf kit for $12 which includes the seat, o-rings, and exhaust valve and a diaphragm for $12. So the cost savings is around $50 adding a few dollars for shipping.

Some people do like to service their own gear.

 

[Fishpie]

There's really no need to buy a kit.......the USD seats almost never need replacement (and turning it over will get you a new surface anyway), and there's three static o rings (one around the poppet barrel, one for the orifice, and another for the plastic plug).
Push out the poppet barrel from the case, soak in vinegar for a couple of minutes, put a bit of lube on the outside of the barrel and reassemble. The chances are it won't even need any adjustment. If the inhalation diaphragm has a hole it needs to be replaced.

.....don't adjust the lock nut unless you have a leak or the reg rattles when pressurized.

 

[DivingG]

Thanks for all the information and suggestions.

I think whether a person buys a new octo, pays a technician, or does the DIY is mostly about personal preference. I can't say one way is better than the others. For me, I'm a DIY'er for many things.

After soaking the parts (actually took it completely apart), flipping the seat, doing a temp fix on the diaphragm, reassembling, adjusting to about 1" cracking pressure - the octo breathes really smooth now. I might need to seriously think about making this my primary reg...