Regulator Making whining noise when breathing in

[tch330ci]

So i've been diving in Kona for the last two weeks. I got my regulator serviced at a well known dive shop in seattle. The reg is a IDI 1st stage, with a SEAIRA 2nd stage and an SEAIRA octo. The whining noise happens when I breathe in under water, and usually starts at around 2300psi, and at about 30 feet. If I go down further it will stop. It happens in the octo and the 2nd stage, so that tells me its at the 1st stage........ Is this something that can be fixed? Is it something that I can still dive with? This regulator set probably has about 200 plus dives on it. Should I just step up and buy new??

Thanks for any input in advance!

-Carl

 

[redacted]

Sounds like your 1st stage piston HP o-ring could use (more) lube. This is a fairly common problem with many Balanced Piston 1sts.

 

[Diver0001]

Just to add to that, what awap told you is the solution. The problem is that the poppet is vibrating as it moves back and forth.

It's irritating but it's probably not directly dangerous. Some people say that the vibration can cause more wear (presumably from friction?) but I don't know if that's a fact or not. Getting it lubed takes a few minutes and it's worth your time.

R..

 

[tch330ci]

Thanks for the feedback.

I'm a mechanic by trade, do you think this is something I can take apart and lube? Or should I just take it in to have it service??

Thanks.
-Carl

 

[Diver0001]

I'm sure as a mechanic there's nothing about a regulator you can't understand but you really should leave it to someone who has been trained for this and has all the right tools.

R..

 

[redacted]

There may be some uncommon tools required to disassemble the reg to access that o-ring and another special tool to guide the piston past the HP o-ring without damage. Plus the lube used is rather special and a bit expensive. This is a problem I would expect your service provider to correct at no charge.

But, I'm sure your mechanical abilities would permit you to service your own gear if that is the route you chose.