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[noob qn] Adding needle valve

ltsai

Member
Joined
16 Oct 2012
Messages
192
Location
Sunny Singapore
Hi,

I'm using the current regulator that is manual and single gauge and having trouble maintaining the bubble count.

IMG_8669.jpg


Is it possible to add a needle valve to the regulator or should I use an inline metering valve?

Or should I just throw this thing away and go for something better? Suggestions? Like UP-A165?

It's kind of hard to get any good regulators in Singapore for our purpose except maybe the discontinued JBJ?

Thanks!
 
I am about to pull apart a similar regulator to add a needle valve. To screw one in rather than running one inline the thread will be either BSPT or NPT with a size of 1/8. I have bought a needle valve that I'm waiting to arrive with an unknown 1/8 fitting. Note you can always find an adaptor I change Bspt to NPT or vice versa. I will also be adding a solenoid at somepoint if that interests you. Any questions just ask any.
 
Is it more cost effective to replace it with something like UP A-165? But I'm not too sure of the quality of its needle valve. A member here added a SMC inline metering valve.

I'm pretty sure the regulator thread is BSPT since I'm in Singapore, however is the exit also BSPT?

I would definitely want a solenoid and a good quality needle valve.
 
Without custom building your regulator there will always be a part that isn't great. If you want a quick and easy solution then buy that regulator as its good for what it is. I can't think of any factory made aquarium regulator that like the way it is. If I were to buy any one to use stock it would be that one tho.
 
Thanks. Looks like I may go for the UP-165 and get a better needle valve or add a needle valve + solenoid to the existing one.

Is there a particular needle valve that I should look for?
 
Anyone that fits and has as many turns from open to closed as possible. My TMC reg has something like 2.5-3 turns I think but my current DIY builds have 15 turns :)
 
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