Pony regulator question

[MrVegas]

I may be getting a pony tank at some point in the not too distant future. I dive in somewhat cold water (down to low 40s), but not typically in cold weather. I was thinking I would probably just get another of the same relatively inexpensive sealed diaphragm regulators that has worked well for me so far and use that for the pony. (If it ain't broke . . . )

On the other hand, I read sometimes that people often use a simple unbalanced piston for pony tanks. Any reason (other than saving a few bucks) to prefer a basic unbalanced piston on a pony tank?

 

[runsongas]

unbalanced piston is simpler and easier to clean for oxygen service. but outside of a dedicated deco reg, a balanced diaphragm would be a better pick, especially as a cold water backup.

 

[Bert van den Berg]

I buy a new regulator for my everyday diving and use the old "everyday diving" regulator on my pony. I try to "test" the pony regulator once in a while to make sure it still works OK.

For some reason it is less expensive in New Zealand to buy a new regulator than to get the old regulator serviced. For this reason the wife and I end up with new regulators every couple of years.

 

[happy-diver]

Genesis Origin Scuba Regulator, 1st & 2nd Stage | eBay

Sherwood Brut Regulator- Ex-Rental- Service Recommended. | eBay

Scuba Regulators for sale | eBay

 

[Angelo Farina]

For some reason it is less expensive in New Zealand to buy a new regulator than to get the old regulator serviced. For this reason the wife and I end up with new regulators every couple of years.

Isn't simpler, cheaper and safer to service them yourself?

 

[Divin'Papaw]

A deco reg is often simple and unbalanced because it's being used shallow. A pony reg is an entirely different thing. I personally want my pony reg to be as high quality as my primary. If I ever need to use it I will most likely need to switch to it at depth and in a high stress situation meaning my breathing will be much heavier than normal. I don't want to have to breath through an inferior reg in situations like that.

I use a top of the line reg on my pony (Apeks ATX200) that is as high quality as my primary (Aqua Lung Legend).

 

[Edward3c]

I may be getting a pony tank at some point in the not too distant future. I dive in somewhat cold water (down to low 40s), but not typically in cold weather. I was thinking I would probably just get another of the same relatively inexpensive sealed diaphragm regulators that has worked well for me so far and use that for the pony. (If it ain't broke . . . )

On the other hand, I read sometimes that people often use a simple unbalanced piston for pony tanks. Any reason (other than saving a few bucks) to prefer a basic unbalanced piston on a pony tank?

You pony reg should be as good, if not better, than your primary. When you need it you are likely to be stressed and could still be at depth.

I practice switching over to my pony and make an ascent from greater than 30m on a regular basis.

 

[lexvil]

I use MK 11 or MK 17

 

[rhwestfall]

My pony is a ScubaPro MK-2 paired with a high performance balanced second (156/g250). The MK-2 is really cold tolerant. Compact, inexpensive, easy to maintain, and very reliable.

The newest model: EVO, with the coated piston spring would be a great choice IMHO.

 

[MrVegas]

Thanks for all of the responses. Helpful information. I have been fairly obsessed with reading cold water regulator information these days. Not so worried with what I'm doing now, but 30 feet deeper and five degrees colder and the thought process changes a little.