The Relay ASA regulator is not meant to be disassembled by the end-user because accessing the internals requires a special tool. Disassembly can be performed using standard tools although this isn't recommended. Your regulator should be cleaned if you experience inconsistent velocity, pressure drop-off, or if the reg has gone years without being serviced.
These are the things you'll need to disassemble and clean your regulator: 3/16" allen key, 1/16" allen key, 1.5mm allen key, 3mm socket driver, needlenose pliers or custom Relay disassembly tool, marker grease lubricant, Q-tips, napkins/paper towel/cloth.
Special tools:
Empire does not want you to clean your own regulator. It was designed to require a special four-prong removal tool for the tank side. Typically you can unscrew the retainer using a pair of needlenose pliers. However, if the retainer has been overly-tightened in place, you will need the special removal tool. Boss Paintball sells an aftermarket version of the removal tool (shown below). You'll also need a 3mm socket driver (also shown below) which is required for maintenance and cannot be substituted using any other homebrew method.
Empire does not want you to clean your own regulator. It was designed to require a special four-prong removal tool for the tank side. Typically you can unscrew the retainer using a pair of needlenose pliers. However, if the retainer has been overly-tightened in place, you will need the special removal tool. Boss Paintball sells an aftermarket version of the removal tool (shown below). You'll also need a 3mm socket driver (also shown below) which is required for maintenance and cannot be substituted using any other homebrew method.
A fully-disassembled Axe/Mini Relay can be seen below:
Note: the diagram shows two different ASA pin holders (on the left side). This component has changed design over the years, so the photo includes both versions.
Note: the diagram shows two different ASA pin holders (on the left side). This component has changed design over the years, so the photo includes both versions.
Reassembly:
The 3mm poppet must be loctited into the piston. To do this, reassemble the poppet, plastic base washer, small spring, and piston into the regulator body. Place a SMALL dab of loctite onto the poppet's threading, then allow the regulator at least 24 hours to fully cure before use.
The 3mm poppet must be loctited into the piston. To do this, reassemble the poppet, plastic base washer, small spring, and piston into the regulator body. Place a SMALL dab of loctite onto the poppet's threading, then allow the regulator at least 24 hours to fully cure before use.
Demonstrational Videos: