ScubaPro Reg Questions (MK17/G250/S555, Atomic Z2/B2)

[stever2002]

I am a north east (NJ) diver - diving mainly in the quarries (I've logged bottom temp between 49 and 55 degrees F). After some more training, I'll venture off into the NJ shore. Besides that, I usually visit Florida a few times a year.

I was leaning towards the MK17/S555, but I've read that many folks recommend the SP MK17/G250 combination.

Questions:

* I've heard rumors of a new 1st stage that will be a MK17 with a swivel. Does anyone have any dirt on this? When? How much? Will it replace the MK17 (I.e. will I be able to get a good price on a MK17 when these new regs come out?)

* I thought I read somewhere that there is a "cold water" package for the MK17? Is this true? Do I need it? How much extra does it cost?

* The G250 appears to be a bit larger, but has a user adjustable inhalation dial. Is there more to this (2nd stage) decision then just form vs. function?

* Since ScubaPro doesn't list the MK17/G250 configuration, is there an added charge for this config?

* I've heard some very good things about the Atomic Z2 and B2 regs as well - they are still in contention here. Will they work for my type of diving, or are they over kill.


When I'm ready to fork over the $s, I'll go to my LDS and try them in the pool. Right now I'm just trying to get as much intel on the regs as possible.

Thanks,
...steve...

 

[BMCG]

Ensuing info on Mk19 from Scubapro UK site,

http://www.scubapro.co.uk/products.asp?T=12

Not sure when to be released in US

 

[jeckyll]

Even in the summer the bottom temp doesn't get above 50 here. In the winter, low 40's.

I did about 100 dives on my Z2 before switching to doubles (the Z2 is now on the left post, M1 is on the right post). You can get the Z2 sealed just like the M1. No problems, have never had a freeze up on either reg (the Z2 is still not sealed, at some point I'll get it done).

Having said all that, you weren't really specific on what you were looking for from your regs. Typically, these threads turn into people telling you to buy the reg they bought, after all, they bought it so it must be best

Most quality regs will work fine in your situation IMO. YMMV of course.

Bjorn

 

[Srrh]

Apprently, the Mk19 will NOT be released in the US (or Canada) at all.
From my scubapro rep. last week.

The so cold 'cold package' is the Mk17, with the 650 second stage...
Personally...don't like its rubber look...verry vain of me I know...

Either way, it's all VERY good gear.

 

[stever2002]

You can get the Z2 sealed just like the M1. No problems, have never had a freeze up on either reg (the Z2 is still not sealed, at some point I'll get it done).

What does it mean to be "sealed"; What exactly do they do and how much does it cost? Also is this required for diving in the water temperatures I listed above?

Thanks,
...steve...

 

[vablackwater]

BMCG provided the link for the Mk 17 with a swivel, the Mk 19. Think of the evolution like a Mk 16 (no swivel) to a Mk 18 (swivel) (Both are Balanced diaphram, not enviromentally sealed predecessors to the Mk 17 and Mk 19).

You can mix and match SP 1st and 2nd stages, the packages are "recommended by scubapro". I have a Mk 17 with a G250 HP and it is outstanding for what i need. An authorized dealer can easily order this combo, there should not be an additional charge.

You can do a search for the differences between the G250 HP vs S600 on other posts in the regs forum (most will agree posts from DAAquamaster are gospel on SP regs).

Generally the SP UK site is about a year ahead of the US market, last I heard the G250V and Mk 19 were headed our way... but no current information.

 

[Srrh]

Mk 19 were headed our way... but no current information.

If you are right, I am going to strangle my LDS owner with my 32 inch lp hose !!!

A well, I'll unscrew my new MK17 ports...it'll be a DIY swivel.
;-)

Steve,

The first under-ice explorers discovered an annoying trait of normal regulators: The flowing gas in the near-freezing water drops the temperature enough to ice up the first stage. This freezes it open, causing a runaway freeflow.

Fortunately, there's a solution: Add a chamber to the first stage to surround it with silicone oil or other non-freezing fluid. The chamber has a diaphragm or piston that transmits water pressure to the oil, so the first stage does its job with minimal freeze risk. An added benefit in normal diving is that the first stage never gets salt water inside, minimizing maintenance concerns.

The downside? Sealed regulators cost a bit more to buy and a bit more for annual servicing

 

[CompuDude]

Hopefully DAAquamaster will chime in, since he is indeed the source of all knowledge when it comes to regs, and ScubaPro regs in particular.

I like the MK25/S600 combo best, personally, esp. if you're interested in a swivel to ease hose routing on your first stage. As long as you're diving in water no lower than the low 40's, you'd be fine with the MK25... the occasional freezeups you read about are in temps below the low 40's. Mid 40s to 50s and you're 100% ok with the MK25.

As for the G250HP, as I understand it, it is essentially a bigger, uglier version of the S600. Not as pretty, and bulkier, but just as good for less dough. Definitely your call on that point, as they're both great regs.

I have the S555 as my secondary, and it is indeed a smooth breather, but I prefer my S600 primary due to it's extra adjustable nature. (Plus I have the bubble deflector installed on my S600.)

In all honesty, however, ALL of the systems you have outlined are excellent, and you'll get years of great service out of any of them.

 

[jeckyll]

What does it mean to be "sealed"; What exactly do they do and how much does it cost? Also is this required for diving in the water temperatures I listed above?

Thanks,
...steve...

In piston regs the ambient water pressure is transfered into the piston. This is done in one of 2 ways:
1) Openings in which the water can directly apply pressure on to the first stage mechanisms
2) A seal which contains a soft substance (like Cistolube) which transfers the force of the water onto the first stage mechanisms.

In very cold conditions having the water interact directly with the workings of the first stage significantly increases the likelyhood of a freeflow.

If you dive in freezing conditions and very cold water, a sealed reg is better, though you should search for a post by DAaquamaster where he describes techniques for extreme cold diving. Very educational.

I would be very comfortable diving a Z2 (i.e. non-sealed first stage) in water temps above 40 degrees and have done so.. and am continuing to do so

Once that reg goes in for it's first service I'll probably just have my LDS seal it.

YMMV

Bjorn

 

[Hoosier]

G250V will be in the market pretty soon, but there is no official words on MK19 yet.

I tried to contact SP yesterday though. I haven't heard any words yet.

I don't think there haven't any regulator models released in U.S. market. Just timing.....