Star Program

[Aslan]

Okay, I asked for some help with my new mag on a couple other posts, and got some great responses...here's a "SHORT" summary of the problem...what was said...and then another question I have regarding the star program.

Okay...I got my mag in the mail...it froze on CO2. I used nitro, seemed to work fine. Brought it to the field, chronoed it, was shooting way low, like 171-175fps. It also was using about 500psi worth of nitro/air per 40-50 shots and I heard a faint leaking sound when I put my ear up to the mainbody.

I tried to adjust the velocity by turning the knob on the back and suddenly the gun started venting out the back.

Anyways, the advice I got was to buy a replacement valve kit and a regulator piston assembly and go through the valve. I am confident that this is good advice based on similar advice/conversations others have had in the forum as well.

Now, my classic valve has one star on it. I went to airgun.com to see what the star program was all about...and I'm wondering if I should just send the valve in and take advantage of the star program. Here are a couple side issues...

1) I was looking forward to going through the valve sort of as a learning experience. However, if I go through it myself and replace some valves and that piston, will I void the warranty and risk paying $65 rather than $20 if I end up having to send it in? Should I send in the new piston I bought with the gun in case that's the problem rather than have them find that as the problem and charge me for one?

2) I'm in the process of purchasing a Level 10 upgrade. I was going to wait to install it until after I worked out my current problems with the classic valve. I'd hate to send in the valve...have them go through it and get it working...then have me try to install the Level 10 and end up screwing the thing up again. However, I doubt that if I send in the Level 10 with the valve that they would just throw it in as part of the star rebuild program.

3) There was a section talking about valves older than Level 7 not being eligible or something like that...how do I know if my classic valve is a Level 7, older, newer, etc...?

So...before this turns into a novel...what would you guys do in my situation (guess I should have done a poll)?
1) Try and rebuild it myself with the parts I ordered. If it still doesn't work, keep trying to get familiar with the marker/valve.
2) Try and rebuild it myself with the parts I ordered. If it still doesn't work, put the stock piston back in and send it in to take advantage of the star program.
3) Send it to AGD to take advantage of the star program.
4) Wait for the Level 10 and try to work with AGD tech support to go through the valve and add the parts I've purchased including the Level 10.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

[Maggot6]

5) Get the level 10, work through the GREAT AGD tech line, and if it still doesn't work take advantage of the star program.

[rb211]

The problem you are having is in the rear part the valve (the regulator). If it were me, I'd replace the reg piston first, and at the risk of being overkill, I'd go ahead and replace the o-rings in the rear also. If you send it in, that is what they would do. Save yourself the hassle of sending it in. The valve is extremely simple to service, you just have to take the time to learn it, and trust me, it's not going to take you long to get to know the valve. You will laugh once you see just how simple it is.

The level 10 is very much a worthwhile upgrade. Definitely get one, but I would resolve your reg problem first. All you need to do is unscrew the velocity adjuster until it comes out of the valve. The spring pack will fall out, but you will need some sort of pick to pull the reg piston out, or, you can push it out with thr reg valve pin from the other side. Once you get it out, make sure your new piston has a fresh o-ring, oil the piston & o-ring and gently push the new one in. put the spring pack in and scew the velocity adjuster back in. Re-chrono the gun and you should be fine.

[Muzikman]

If it has a star, it is a level 7 valve.

Have you replaced all the orings in the gun? If not, but a rebuild kit and do that.

Buy a reg piston and try that. They are not that expensive.

Install the level 10 kit after you figure out what is wrong with it now. You don't want to be trying to troubleshoot two different problems.

If you can not fix it. Send in the gun with the level 10 kit. I am sure they will repair and install the level 10 for you. But keep in mind, just because they installed it, doesn't mean that it will work long when you get it back. The level 10 is not a set and forget mod. It requires maintenance and the changing of carriers as the oring breaks in.

[Aslan]

The only reason I ask is that it seems if you have a star on your valve (or 3 on a minimag), you should take advantage of the free professional work.

I guess since I already have the replacement valves adn piston assembly, I might as well try to do it myself. I'm looking forward to tinkering with it...not as much as I'm looking forward to being able to use it at the field...but excited nonetheless

[Muzikman]

Well, I would save the star for repares that might be more expensive, or for problems you might not be able to fix. The mag valve it pretty easy to take apart and put back together, and the parts you need are pretty simple. I would give it a shot first, if it still doesn't work, send it in.

[MnSparky]

I have just done everything that you are talking about (well, not sending in the mag to AGD...). I installed the level 10 on a classic mag, and to make a long story short, I had to replace the regulator piston assembly to get the level 10 to work properly and to get chrono speeds up to normal without venting. Like everyone else has said, its a very easy fix, and cheap. I would also change at least the regulator seat as well. I too would save the star for later. Once I had the new reg piston and seat, the level 10 was pretty easy to install.

[athomas]

The problems on this valve are basic and can be repaired by replacing regular consumable maintenance parts. Don't waste a star on this valve. Plus, you will get the added benefit of learning about the internals of the valve.

Since you bought the valve used, it is a good idea to go throught it and replace all orings plus the regulator piston assembly(since we know it is worn out). That way you know you are starting with a fresh valve that should be very close to being like new.