scrane
Contributor
Some time ago I posted a WTB ad for a VDH Phoenix first stage assembly for the DH Aqua-Master, and as an afterthought went fishing for an extra D washer that is used to position the upgraded second stage HPR assembly. The Phoenix is currently out of production, but the HPR is available at this time from Bryan at Vintage Double Hose.
With these two mods plus the Duckbill Eliminator, silicone diaphragm, and DSV mouthpiece you have a modernized DH regulator with 95% of the capabilities of the Kraken.
The Phoenix is a marvel of engineering that offers a balanced first stage with three LP and three HP ports and replaces the original first stage on the DH Aqua-Master. The HPR uses an improved actuator and pivot system that provides smooth breathing and adjustable venturi. One small complication is I find it a little difficult to securely position the HPR output in relation to the horn with the steel D washers provided.
A while after I posted the wanted ad I got a reply from James79 offering to laser print the D washers in plastic, and later offering a modified mod that could be used to totally block one or both venturi holes. The plastic he uses has the benefit of being slightly elastic, snugging up to the HPR barrel as the screw is tightened and at the same time acting as a lock washer to remain secure without over torqueing.
Since most of the assemblies involved in the Phoenix/HPR upgrades are not currently available these improvements are targeted to those who are lucky enough to have an upgraded DAAM. If you are interested, contact James79 on this board. I know that he has also been experimenting with cloning the flat DH backplate that Bryan has offered in the past. I don't know what the intellectual property aspects of the backplate are. Worth an ask if you are seeking this rarity.
Also, if you are interested in diving a modernized DH regulator none are currently in production. If you come across a used one I would snap it up.
With these two mods plus the Duckbill Eliminator, silicone diaphragm, and DSV mouthpiece you have a modernized DH regulator with 95% of the capabilities of the Kraken.
The Phoenix is a marvel of engineering that offers a balanced first stage with three LP and three HP ports and replaces the original first stage on the DH Aqua-Master. The HPR uses an improved actuator and pivot system that provides smooth breathing and adjustable venturi. One small complication is I find it a little difficult to securely position the HPR output in relation to the horn with the steel D washers provided.
A while after I posted the wanted ad I got a reply from James79 offering to laser print the D washers in plastic, and later offering a modified mod that could be used to totally block one or both venturi holes. The plastic he uses has the benefit of being slightly elastic, snugging up to the HPR barrel as the screw is tightened and at the same time acting as a lock washer to remain secure without over torqueing.
Since most of the assemblies involved in the Phoenix/HPR upgrades are not currently available these improvements are targeted to those who are lucky enough to have an upgraded DAAM. If you are interested, contact James79 on this board. I know that he has also been experimenting with cloning the flat DH backplate that Bryan has offered in the past. I don't know what the intellectual property aspects of the backplate are. Worth an ask if you are seeking this rarity.
Also, if you are interested in diving a modernized DH regulator none are currently in production. If you come across a used one I would snap it up.
