I guess that we all have had diving buddies that we just don’t want to dive with. I know that I have made some mistakes over the years and I am sure that some of my friends say, “Boy that guy really messed up.” Guess what?  I have said the same about them. However, I have always made every effort to correct whatever was the problem. This is really what I am saying about your equipment. Make sure that it’s ready before you go. One mistake with it and it most likely will be your last, especially if you’re a deep diver.

So much for that kind of stuff; let’s get back to what we were talking about with different types of regulators. A diver knows that there are several types. They are all alike but different according to the number of hoses or make. They reduce the pressure so that you can breathe it. 

We could talk about the double hose type, but I know nothing about them at all. I think the guy on sea hunt used that type. And new divers may never see them. They are used in other dive activities. I think that there is a new type on the market, but I don’t think they will last long.

In the meantime, we will turn our attention to the single hose regulator. It is no more then connecting the hose between the first and second stage. Air flows from the tank to the regulator (first stage and then reduced again at the second stage.) The regulator set up will determine how much pressure you have as it leaves the second stage. This is a tech’s job, and you should have him set it for you when you have it serviced.

I like to get a lot of air real quick, so even when thinking about taking a breath the air is there. You really need to talk to the person who services the regulator and relay and tell him how you want your regulator second stage to work within the limits and design.  Always stay within the limits of your equipment.

I like Scuba Pro. My friend Bob Ray can take them apart and service them with his eyes closed.  This is a good thing. I have watched him at work and believe me he is good and I trust him. There is no question about how the regulator will operate when I get it back. Also, my friends at Hood Sports and Dive, Michael and Ron, are on top making things work the way they should. Like having a great dive buddy, a good dive shop with someone who knows what he is doing around scuba equipment is a must.

Service of the equipment is important as well, and you will know that when you get into the water that your equipment will work. One thing that gets to me when diving is that some guys change regulators or take the safe second and just let it drag the bottom. Look, let’s wake up! If you break the safe second, fill it with sand, or an Octopus takes up residence in it, you will have to continue to use the one that is left. Think about it!  How many lives do you have?  Remember it’s your life and taking care of the regulator will ensure that you have a long good one. See you next week with more about equipment

© 08-08-2005 G. McK.