Guys,
I've had a few days off so I've been digging through the gear locker and servicing usuable regs and setting aside a couple for "further review"
Here is a little Voit Avalon that I thought might make a dandy little safe second for shallow, easy work.
When connected to a tank with 800 psi, the IP is a creeping mess so I'm pretty sure the first stage is a goner until Bryan does all the R&D puts together rebuild kits for it - -
The tilt lever, second stage is nice though and just pristine considering this reg is circa 1964-65. The second does not free flow when connected to a known good first stage with an IP of 145 psi. However, the reg takes an incredible amount of super lung to initiate a breath. Taking the cover off, I note the diaphragm is hard as a rock from age. The diaphragm looks to me like the rubber impregnated fabric we see a lot of on antique stuff like this.
1) Has anyone ever found a silicone upgrade diaphragm that fits in these little Voit seconds? Diameter is 2 5/8 inch (seating recess)
2.) Has anyone ever made their own diaphragms with silicone and stainless sheet / glue for the center disc? (I'd like to try that)
I have the diaphragm set aside right now with a liberal coating of vegetable glycerine on it - hoping to restore some life into the rubber - figure that might help a little after 4 or five days.
The Voit Avalon was never intended to be a high performance regulator as it's MSRP was 37.50 in 1965 - it's more like a little toy for beginners but it sure is small, light and good looking.
Thanks