What lube to use for SPG and where to get it?

[Bubbletrubble]

General practice is not to lube "static" o-rings, those which don't move or contact moving parts. This includes the o-ring between hose and first stage, and tank valve o-ring. The o-rings on the SPG spool should be lightly lubed, as the SPG is intended to spin around them (as such, they're not static).

And, yet the Apeks reg manual specifies that the o-rings on first stage port plugs should be lubricated. I suspect that other reg manufacturers might make the same recommendation. It probably doesn't make a significant difference either way with such static o-rings.

I always lube HP spool o-rings and the o-ring in the end of a reg hose (near the second stage).

 

[aquaregia]

It seems that, because o-rings function based on their ability to flex/expand/move, they'd all benefit from lubrication (although dynamic more than others).

 

[Gombessa]

It probably doesn't make a significant difference either way with such static o-rings.

For port plugs, probably not. Also of note, it's often recommended to lightly lube camera case o-ring seals too, even though they're "static" (although I imagine this has more to do with preserving o-ring life given the fact that these are opened and closed quite frequently).

It seems that, because o-rings function based on their ability to flex/expand/move, they'd all benefit from lubrication (although dynamic more than others).

I don't think it's wise to adopt this as a general principle. I've certainly heard of tank-valve o-rings extruding out the tank neck due to inappropriately lubricating the o-ring, which is quite an alarming sight:

This has happened during dives and in storage.

I've also, strangely, once had a DIN o-ring extrude out to the pinhole on the side of the valve upon charging (yep, it was lubed).

Just saying, I wouldn't default to lubricating everything, as it's not always the "safest course of action." When in doubt, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

 

[aquaregia]

Yikes.

 

[Gombessa]

edit: reposted

 

[smokn']

Ok, well thanx for the advice all! I'll call up to my LDS and see if he can hook me up. I would order my own online but I'm leaving for a dive trip next week.

 

[smokn']

My LDS was pretty awesome, gave me a dab of grease and installed the SPG for me free of charge.