How to build a Victor VTS253b-320

[Left C]

I get the part numbers out of the Victor parts manual. Then my Victor dealer orders them for me.

[Matt F.]

In case anyone needs the part numbers for "B" model stainless SGT 500 replacement gauges, just PM me. They are about $45 each.

[Matt F.]

This is a nice DIY for how to prep your regulator for all the parts you just ordered.
http://www.barrreport.com/showthread...or-a-post-body

The best place to buy a CGA 320 nut/nipple is:
http://www.regulatortorchrepair.com/...nut-and-nipple

Here is how to install a CGA 320 nut/nipple. I highly recommend teflon tape on the CGA nipple instead of non-hardening thread sealer. The teflon tape seals better on high pressure parts.
http://www.barrreport.com/showthread...used-regulator

Hope this helps!

[Jowlz]

Matt,

Thanks for the excellent write up. It saved me a ton of leg work!

[Matt F.]

Matt,

Thanks for the excellent write up. It saved me a ton of leg work!

That's the idea! Glad it helped. Learn from my mistakes b/c I didn't have any threads to follow with step-by-step pictures.

side note, I went into my local Ace hardware and they have a full selection of npt brass fittings. If you want to circumvent the rediculous $12 shipping fee from bigway.com, go into your local Ace hardware store. You'll trully save money.

[barbarossa4122]

Another outstanding post (#23). Thanks Matt.

[pat w]

+1 on the outstanding post. Sweet, shiney, clean rig.

Makes me feel kind of guilty I'm working to sort of put you Reg. guys out of business.

Pat

[barbarossa4122]

Makes me feel kind of guilty I'm working to sort of put you Reg. guys out of business.

Pat

I don't I think they are doing OK.

[Matt F.]

+1 on the outstanding post. Sweet, shiney, clean rig.

Makes me feel kind of guilty I'm working to sort of put you Reg. guys out of business.

Pat

I think that's what capitalism is all about. Those who have a better product or a better way to do it push out those who offer a sub-par unit of the same price. Ready made units (i.e. Milwaukee, Azoo, and the countless others) will always have their niche for those who are not mechanically inclined or do not have the patience to deal with ordering parts, etc. Don't worry about regulator builders, they have their place, too.

Don't feel bad for demanding a quality piece of equipment for your money and investment.

fwiw, most of the aquarium regulators are made in china and taiwan. This plays into the big picture of outsourcing and the trade imbalance between Asian and the United States. The US unemployment rate is still high ,especially in California (nearly 12%). By buying locally made npt fittings from Ace hardware, Ideal valves from Bill Sand, and American made dual stage regulators, you are supporting American jobs/businesses.

What do you have to feel bad about?

Support your local businesses and American industry. Quality is second to none.

[Matt F.]

Another outstanding post (#23). Thanks Matt.

Thanks!

On the BHT and HPT 500 models, I like using a 2" nipple instead of a 2.5-3". It looks better IMO. See Left C's Dual Stage thread for pics.