How to change a CGA on a used regulator

[Matt F.]

Background: I used Vice Grip locking pliers to unscrew the original CGA-580 that came on this HPT 500 regulator.

For all of you who are thinking about buying a dual stage reg oon ebay, here is how you change a CGA-580 to a CGA-320.

I bought the Chrome SMith CGA-320 nut and nipple from the link in post #1.

I'll let the pictures do the talking, but I will insert text when there is something to add.

it arrived via USPS flat rate:

 

[Matt F.]

First step, gently slide the nut on the nipple with the threads of the nut facing out over the nipple. (self explanitory...LoL).

Now I added my non-toxic ARP (automotive) teflon based non-hardening thread sealer:

 

[Matt F.]

now it's time for the fun!

Now some of you may conclude that there is no real way to tighten down a non-hex nipple (a nipple with no flat surfaces). I freaked out, too, when thinking about this. Simply, you use the body of the regulator to tighten the nipple.

In other words, one hand is gripping the CGA 320 nipple with a non-slip grip and the other hand is twisting the regulator and ultimately torquing the CGA 320 nipple on tight. Don't overtorque (hard to do).

One thing I didn't show is that I used a smaller crescent wrench to torque down the nipple after I hand tightened it. If you look at the tip of the nipple, you'll see a hex-like pattern, which is a perfect spot for a wrench.

Here is how it looks:

 

[Matt F.]

Here are more shots after cleaning up the extra thread sealer, etc.

Here is the finished product. It's ready for any domestic CGA 320 (CO2) and a post body kit....Richard... :wink:

 

[Matt F.]

Since this thread, I have taken Victor/Thermadyne's advice and used teflon tape on the CGA 320----> regulator body connection. Thsi not only protects the threads on the regulator and nipple, but it also seals really well. I found this out the hard way with my SGT 500 build, which is the same configuration, except in stainless.

 

[inkslinger]

Matt how do you take off a cga on a bran new regulator? are they glue on ? do I heat it? What is the best way.

:gw

 

[GillesF]

Hi Matt

do they sell these in European DIN (DIN something ...)?

 

[Matt F.]

If you don't have air-tools or a bench vice, then you can muscle it off with a large vice-grips. Turn the stem counterclockwise. DO NOT use heat.
To install, all you need is a 8 or 10" adjustable wrench. Use Teflon tape.

Matt how do you take off a cga on a bran new regulator? are they glue on ? do I heat it? What is the best way.

:gw

 

[thegasman]

I use a long pipe wrench. The length gives you leverage and the pipe wrench grips without slipping. Makes removal very easy.

 

[exv152]

I'll be replacing a CGA580 with a CGA320 on a new dual stage, any advice on removing the stem/nut/nipple?

Is it better to place the regulator in the vice and remove the stem with a wrench?

And, how do I protect the regulator from getting damaged in the vice?

 

[Matt F.]

I either use air tools or a vice grip to remove the CGA stem. Then to tighten I use an adjustable wrench. No need for a bench vice.

I'll be replacing a CGA580 with a CGA320 on a new dual stage, any advice on removing the stem/nut/nipple?

Is it better to place the regulator in the vice and remove the stem with a wrench?

And, how do I protect the regulator from getting damaged in the vice?

- - - Updated - - -

I either use air tools or a vice grip to remove the CGA stem. Then to tighten I use an adjustable wrench. No need for a bench vice.

I'll be replacing a CGA580 with a CGA320 on a new dual stage, any advice on removing the stem/nut/nipple?

Is it better to place the regulator in the vice and remove the stem with a wrench?

And, how do I protect the regulator from getting damaged in the vice?

 

[Solcielo lawrencia]

I'll be replacing a CGA580 with a CGA320 on a new dual stage, any advice on removing the stem/nut/nipple?

Is it better to place the regulator in the vice and remove the stem with a wrench?

And, how do I protect the regulator from getting damaged in the vice?

To remove the CGA fitting, use a 11/16" hex spanner wrench which will fit over the hex. You could also use an open ended 11/16" but that increases the possibility of it slipping off. An adjustable spanner wrench may work, but it will be more difficult and it increases the possibility of damaging the hex. (That's what I did to my CGA-580.)

And don't put the regulator in the vise. But if you must, put the nipple in it instead and slowly turn the regulator body to get the nipple off.