Greendot

Hi,

I'm assembling a CO2 system. I want to purchase these items in the next two weeks or so. This is what I will get/make (please let me know if something is not necessary/wrong or missing):

10lbs tank - used from ebay...

duel stage co2 regulator (I see that ppl recommend a 'duel' one but why?) - is this one good: http://www.amazon.com/Premium-Series...=co2+regulator

needle valve - any special requirements or anyone will do?

check valve

solenoid - does it matter what kind? are they different kinds?

co2 drop checker

and I would like to make my own reactor/diffuser and bobble counter - do I need a counter if I will have a drop checker? Any good plans for a DIY diffuser?

Thanks!

Greendot

Sorry for doubling up but I just found this guy on ebay and it looks like he has several duel stage regulators + needle valve + solenoid + check valve for around 70$ shipped.... Are they any good? Will someone recommend any of them?

http://stores.ebay.com/Aquarium-HK/R...=p4634.c0.m322

Seattle_Aquarist

Hi Greendot,

Do your research and you will be fine. Buying a used 10 gallon cylinder may not be a bargain if it needs hydrostatic testing before it can be used. The regulator does not look to be adjustable and the needle valve looks cheap.

Greendot

After more research, I found this one:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/AQUATEK-CO2-...item35bd278dda

Seems like a good one and it includes everything I need beside a diffuser which I will make myself. Thoughts?

cturner

I bought the AquaTek one, I've only had it for alittle over a month and I haven't had any problems yet. Just make sure your fittings are tight. I have mine hooked up to a paint ball adapter then to a 24 oz tank and I didn't have the adapter tight enough and had a leak I didn't realize until I looked and it was almost empty after 2 weeks. I've since then had my husband tighten everything up for me since I don't have the hand strength to hold the grips to tighten everything.

_chicken_

I bought an Aquatek a few months ago, and it has been working fine for me so far.

I have had good luck buying used co2 cylinders on eBay. Just make sure that it has a current hydrotest date stamped on it.

Left C

None of these regulators are dual "stage." Do you mean that some are dual "gauge?"

NYREPS

I also got the aquatek with 6 splitters and a new 5 lb tank from amazon

Total cost was $155 and $21 to filled 5 lb of co2

And it comes with 6 free bubble counters

Total cost $176

I had this set for the passed 6 months and it's been working great