Vintage Dacor R - 3 Double Hose Scuba Regulator, Serviced With 1 1/4 " Dacor Hoses
Item History & Price
| Reference Number: Avaluer:19149225 |
This is an early R-3 "Dial-a-Breath" regulator made by Dacor in the 1950s-60s. It is in very good condition, and is mostly original. The second diaphragm, the exhaust, has been replaced by a NOS Dacor duckbill. This actually improves the exhalation effort. The early examples came with a 1" hoseloop with tiny non-return valves and were considered to be hard breathers because of the very restrictive mouthpiece/non-return system. The later R-3s like this one were offered with a 1 1/...4" hoseloop which also improved performance considerably.
The regulator was disassembled, cleaned and inspected, then reassembled with good OEM replacement parts. Chrome is VG/Exc inside and out, and the front label is nice. The Dial-a-Breath sticker is there, but no writing is left. There are several nicks, tool marks, and a couple of small dings, but nothing affects performance. The main and HP diaphragms are in great condition and function properly. The HP and soft seats were resurfaced and lock up tight.
Overall, this 60 year old R-3 is a very good looking regulator which performs as it should. Due to the age of the rubber parts, regular maintenance and inspection for wear should be done, but there is no reason they shouldn't last for years to come. These are fun to dive in a relaxed environment at a reasonable depth. This is not a regulator you'd choose to do heavy work at 130 fow, but are enjoyable pieces of history that give a perspective on how it was back in the day.
As with all of my regulators, I add this disclamer:
Diving is a potentially dangerous activity. I cannot guarantee your safety using this regulator. You need to get trained in the use of double hose regulators, and understand their unique qualities. It is up to you to determine that this vintage regulator is appropriate for your intended use, and your decision to use it as life support equipment is solely your responsibility.
The regulator was disassembled, cleaned and inspected, then reassembled with good OEM replacement parts. Chrome is VG/Exc inside and out, and the front label is nice. The Dial-a-Breath sticker is there, but no writing is left. There are several nicks, tool marks, and a couple of small dings, but nothing affects performance. The main and HP diaphragms are in great condition and function properly. The HP and soft seats were resurfaced and lock up tight.
Overall, this 60 year old R-3 is a very good looking regulator which performs as it should. Due to the age of the rubber parts, regular maintenance and inspection for wear should be done, but there is no reason they shouldn't last for years to come. These are fun to dive in a relaxed environment at a reasonable depth. This is not a regulator you'd choose to do heavy work at 130 fow, but are enjoyable pieces of history that give a perspective on how it was back in the day.
As with all of my regulators, I add this disclamer:
Diving is a potentially dangerous activity. I cannot guarantee your safety using this regulator. You need to get trained in the use of double hose regulators, and understand their unique qualities. It is up to you to determine that this vintage regulator is appropriate for your intended use, and your decision to use it as life support equipment is solely your responsibility.
