Replace just 2nd stage?

[SirBriguy]

Hello, my wife has an older Oceanic regulator and the 2nd stage is going bad (and is a pain to service according to all the technicians who worked on it). So we were going to replace it with something newer/better.

Is it recommended to replace both the first and second stage, or is it ok to just replace the 2nd stage? Also, is there a problem with mixing brands of the 1st and 2nd stage?

Thanks for any info.

 

[Fishpie]

Is it an Omega 2nd stage?
(funny looking side breather)

 

[Jim Lapenta]

The Omega is about the only one that is a bit touchy. But to answer your question if the 1st is in good shape, still can get parts, and works there is absolutely no reason to buy a new one. Just replace the second with any good second stage. Oceanic would be my first choice just to keep it in the family so to speak but not necessary. Exactly what 1st and 2nd does she have?

 

[SirBriguy]

Yes, she has an Omega (funny side breathing one).

As far as I know the 1st stage is fine. But I figured I would start with replacing the 2nd stage, and if we still have problems, then replace the first stage as well.