Service Your Own Regs

[Teller]

I have heard about people servicing there own regs and was wondering how hard it is. I wouldn’t feel very conferrable wondering if my reg was not put back together correctly. I have a Zeagle reg and I have found the service kits online but where do I need to go or who do I need to talk to, to learn how to do it correctly. Thanks

 

[Thalassamania]

If you are comfortable dealing with a running toilet, you will be able to deal with a regulator, they are very similar. Get [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]SCUBA REGULATOR MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR [/FONT]and go for it.

 

[mdb]

Servicing a regulator is not that difficult. If you have the knowledge and the proper information and tools it is a task that can be easily accomplished. Thal's recommendation is a good one.

We publish schematics and repair information on our website: Apollo Sports: Dive Gear

 

[fppf]

If you are comfortable dealing with a running toilet, you will be able to deal with a regulator, they are very similar. Get [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]SCUBA REGULATOR MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR [/FONT]and go for it.

I don't think I would go that far.
You need a list of tools that will start to add up. If you have only one reg it really is not worth the time and effort to learn to do it properly. Unless you just like doing this type of stuff. But as a way to save money, not really worth it.

 

[H2O 70]

+1 for the VH book on regulator repair. Get that and do some reading. It isn't rocket science, but you will need a couple of specific tools and it will tell you how to make, improvise or where to buy them.

 

[herman]

I would suggest adding "Regulator Savvy" Scuba Tools and the Zeagle, Dive Rite and Apeks service manauls http://www.frogkick.dk/manuals/ to your reading list. They are very similar and understanding all 3 will give you a better feel for what you are doing.

 

[halocline]

I wouldn’t feel very conferrable wondering if my reg was not put back together correctly.

Me neither, that's why I started working on them myself.

In addition to the advice you've received, I'd add that there are some very helpful people on this forum that will answer questions, and show you things if they're local. It's a great resource.

 

[herman]

I don't think I would go that far.
You need a list of tools that will start to add up. If you have only one reg it really is not worth the time and effort to learn to do it properly. Unless you just like doing this type of stuff. But as a way to save money, not really worth it.

I totally disagree. The tools needed are for the most part are common, if you are willing to tackle a reg, odds are you already have most of them. Specialty tools are usually make service quicker or easier but are not often required. DIY alternatives are available or there are work arounds. An inline adjustment tool is a prime example. No way I would do without one in a repair shop but I can easily do without one for a few regs. With a little practice you can get good at estimating the setting. The savings doing 1 service will pay for most all the extra tools, 2 regs and you have paid for all the tools and books too. The value you get in being able to field adjust a reg is well worth the cost of the books alone.

 

[spectrum]

If you are comfortable rebuilding a lawnmower carburetor then you have potential. A good manual like Vance's, a few tools, a parts source and a little training/mentoring can get you started.

Pete

 

[LeadTurn_SD]

DUI_Diver,

The only "special" tool you need to service a Zeagle diaphragm regulator is a pin spanner wrench:

http://www.zeagleexpress.com/gear/REGULATORS/Service Kits and Parts.html

You can also buy the service kits from the site listed above.

For the very 1st Zeagle reg I serviced, I actually modified a bicycle spanner wrench I had laying around. I subsequently bought a set of pin spanner wrenchs from Scuba Tools; they do work better than my homemade one

You'll need a good set of hex wrenches, open end wrenches; brass o-ring picks, IP gauge.... the initial cost will probably be a bit more than a typical service costs at the LDS, but the tools are a 1-time expense.

Good quality tools and gauges are available here:

Scuba Tools

I have a PDF service manual for the Zeagle Flathead, DS-IV and 50D.... I've had it so long I cannot remember where I downloaded from, but if you need it, send me a PM and I'll e-mail it to you.

I own 2 Zeagle Flathead VI's, and have to say that a talented child could service them. They were designed with ease-of-service in mind, and are super easy to rebuild and tune. I'd say they are easier to repair than a leaking toilet (or at least more fun ).

Best wishes.