newer DR regs - metal change?

[KevinE]

Is anyone familiar with the newer RG1208 regs with the black chrome finish? Is the color change an indication of the manufacturer of the regs? does it affect its ability to be used in a near pure O2 environment? Just curious as I have a couple 1205 models (year or two old silver mat chrome finish) and am wanting another one. One of my main questions is if the internal parts /rebuild kits are the same as the 1205s. Any insight would be appreciated. If you feel it is a rules violation for posting an opinion please PM me otherwise any helpful post would be appreciated. Kevin Eckelkamp.

[Jordan]

Hi Kevin,

What is the difference between the previous RG1206 (silver) first stage and the current RG1208 (black) first stage? The most noticable change is cosmetic, the regulator is now a "black chrome" color. The only functional difference is the RG1208 has a thinner diaphram. The new diaphram makes the balanced characteristic of the first stage slightly more responsive to changes in depth. This improvement can be seen
in bench testing, although divers most likely will not notice a difference with actual in-water performance. The only other mechanical difference is the height of the cap holding the diaphram and the addition of a thrust washer, both to compensate for the change in diaphram thickness. The RG1206 can not be retrofitted with the new diaphram. Because the diaphram is a periodic service replacement item, there are two different service kits. If the regulator body is silver, it uses the RG1261 service kit. If the regulator body is black, it uses the RG1330 service kit. Finally, the black chrome will make no difference in rich oxygen environments; and these new 1st stages are not manufactured by another manufacturer.

[KevinE]

Thanks you for that info. I basically found confirming info from over at Bills. It had to do with certification for CE I was told.