Beuchat intermediate pressure?

Question
Hi, I was diving yesterday and when i ascended from the first dive my low pressure inflator hose ruptured. I replaced it today and checked the intermediate pressure and got a reading of 110 psi (7.5 bar). I think this might be low but i cant find the manual to check the correct pressure settings. Does this mean my reg needs a service? I hope not, because im in asia and the service kits are impossible to get! (Do you know where I can get them sent to Thailand?). Thanks in advance for your response. Gwydion.

Answer
Hi Gwydion,

I'm not familiar with the service specifications for Beuchat so I can't give you a definitive answer as to the proper intermediate pressure reading.  However, the settings for most regulators run between 125 and 145 psi with 150 being a maximum acceptable pressure.  Based on that information, I think your reading of 110 psi is probably a bit low.

If the reading remains steady at 110 (no upwards creep)then you may be able to simply adjust the reading upward without having to install a service kit.  Again, I'm not familiar with Beuchat so I don't know if the intermediate pressure on your model is externally adjustable or uses internal shims.  I'm assuming that you have a piston regulated first stage.  If it is externally adjustable then you should have an allen head adjustment screw which can be turned clockwise slowly to increase the intermediate pressure.  Purge the regulator between adjustments.  If it doesn't have this feature then it will probably require the installation of internal shims.  These shims look like plastic washers of varying thicknesses and will have to be installed under the piston spring. This will require a partial disassembly of the first stage and should be accompanied by the installation of a new service kit.  Service kits do not contain shims so those would have to be acquired separately.

Once again, Gwydion, this is general information since I'm not familiar with Beuchat service requirements.  I hope it will give you enough info to evaluate your situation and determine what's best for you.


Blowing a hose bothers me a little.  I'm assuming the regulator is in a well-maintained condition without corrosion and has been properly rinsed and stored after use.  If this is the case then the above information should help you.  If the regulator has corrosion on it's surfaces and on the inlet filter then it should be completely serviced before attempting any adjustments.

As for obtaining kits or service, I would try an internet search for Beuchat and see if they have a dealer locator.  You will need the model number or name of the first stage of your unit when requesting service or parts.  Keep in mind that Beuchat may only supply parts to it's authorized dealers so that's another reason for using the dealer locator.

Gwydion, I hope this answer provides you with enough information to allow you to obtain the proper service and parts for your regulator.

Happy Diving!!

Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com