Regulator

[bigsnowdog]

I read of certain brands of regulator for which it is possible to easily buy repair parts. A question for those who use such regulators and do their own regulator service themselves:

What is needed to be able to effectively do this work, and I am meaning beyond hand tools? Do you need any sort of pressure measuring equipment; a pressure gauge with manifold allowing it to connect to a source of pressurized air?

Having worked on welding regulators and having a deep technical background, I have an interest in doing this myself if I can. And if I can, I would choose regulator brands that make that possible.

Discuss....

 

[mkutyna]

An Intermediate Pressure gauge is pretty much mandatory. Other equipment will be manufacturer specific. The IP gauge can be bought for about $20. Service manuals for your particular model regulators are very nice but not 100% necessary. Vance Harlow's reg tech book is a nice overall guide to reg maintenance.

<insert your standard warning about a regulator being life support equipment and maintenance on them should not be taken lightly>

 

[herman]

Parts can be gotten for most any reg but some are more difficult than others. Sherwood and Zeagle are likely the easiest to get parts for with Sherwoods being a great reg to start on, they are fairly simple to repair and solid regs. An IP gauge, silicone or Crystolube and a couple of tanks are the major service items you need, other wrenches and tools are fairly common or easy to get. Most special tools can be purchased, home made or a workaround found. An ultrasonic cleaner is nice to have. Besides Vans book I would also suggest a copy of Regulator Savvy. I find RS a little more on the technical side with less DIY and Vans book more on the DIY side, making the pair compliment each other very nicely.
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