My regulator gauges failed and oil is everywhere

[scottg0814]

There is nothing wrong with the plug that comes with it. If you're using a filled gauge, you need to relieve pressure either by piercing a hole in it or by lifting it up. It's that simple. Most filled gauges state this on the body.

I have the same style external regulator. I posted a couple years ago when one of my rubber caps popped off and the glycerin started leaking out. It was alarming at first cuz I didn't initially know the source of the goo. I don't remember anyone mentioning the need to burp them but sure makes sense with what I experienced. No idea what contributes to the pressure buildup but now I have to go "burp my gauges". Never imagined putting that string of words together LOL

 

[Ta-Ta Toothie]

Yeah, and if you happen to have a lower pressure one e.g., 0 to 50 psi, not only will the plug come lose, but the needle will read higher. Releasing the pressure will reset all the above. Reading the instructions does wonders

 

[Ta-Ta Toothie]

Everything changes with 🌡

 

[Scotchmo]

Any suggestions on how to clean the oil off? I feel like I need to spray it down with something to help get the oil off, otherwise it will just be oily as heck.

Glycerin is water soluble. When the plug vibrated out from my compressor gauge, I cleaned it up with water. I refilled the gauge with glycerin and put the plug back in.

 

[Smok3y]

Happened to me a couple years ago and Joe said not to worry about it, they don’t even need it (like others here have said).

Happened again a couple weeks ago… I was at my desk and heard a pop. Went into the room with the tank and it had shot the plug out. Happened again a couple days later. Not sure what has changed lately, but that plug definitely doesn’t want to stay on. I might let the rest of the liquid out.

 

[wahoowad]

Why would they pop out? The gauge isn’t under pressure.

 

[jarmstrong]

'could' be a bad gauge if the plug "pops" out, sounds like an internal leak here is googles repy
Pressure Build-Up

Glycerine Filled Gauge Issue​

When dealing with a glycerine-filled gauge where the rubber plug pops out, it’s important to follow the correct procedure to ensure the gauge functions properly. Here are some steps and considerations:

• Venting Process: After installation, glycerine-filled gauges need to be vented to ensure accuracy. This is particularly necessary for gauges with full scale ranges of 300 PSI and below. Venting allows the liquid to adjust to atmospheric pressure, preventing inaccurate readings.
• Solid Rubber Plug: For gauges with a solid rubber fill plug, you should cut off the tip of the plug to create a small hole for venting. If glycerine does not spill out after cutting, you may need to cut further. You can also use a small tool to check if glycerine is present in the hole, indicating proper venting.
• Lever Type Plug: If your gauge has a lever type fill plug, simply move the yellow valve to the open position to vent the gauge. This style of plug is designed to be opened during installation to prevent pressure buildup.
• Pressure Build-Up: If the plug pops out due to pressure build-up, it could indicate a defect or issue with the gauge. In such cases, it’s advisable to replace the gauge, as continued use might lead to further issues or leaks.
• Refilling: If the glycerine leaks out, you can refill the gauge with glycerine. However, ensure the plug is properly seated to prevent it from popping out again. If the plug continues to pop out, it might be best to replace the gauge to avoid potential safety risks.
• Seating the Plug: Ensure the rubber plug is correctly seated to prevent it from popping out due to pressure. If the plug keeps coming off, it might be a sign that the gauge needs to be replaced.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for proper installation and maintenance of your glycerine-filled gauge.

 

[Ta-Ta Toothie]

Why would they pop out? The gauge isn’t under pressure.

Don't over think it.

 

[wahoowad]

Well, I am still curious why they would pop out. These are little rubber plugs that are meant to be easily pride out, but they seal well enough to keep the oil from leaking out. There is no pressure inside the gauge housing so why would these plugs both Come off? In my case, the regulator was not even connected to a tank. It was just sitting in a drawer.

 

[blackdog899]

I just googled it and it doesn’t seem to have much thermal expansion. So is there a diaphragm type thing inside that moves with the tank pressure. But yours was sitting in a drawer. Anyway just keeping mine with the hole on top and getting non liquid gauges if I need another.