One of the genius aspects of the Vapcap is that there are no parts that need frequent replacement or maintenance. I have all the spare replacement bits, but I must say that the longevity of the stock unit is astonishing. I've been using Vapcaps as my daily drivers for three years now with the only replacements being a screen that I lost and an o-ring that I broke from mishandling.
However, what are the bits that will need replacing eventually?
- Condenser X-rings. These are used in the condenser of all non Omni models. They are grooved orings that form an x if you cut them in half and look at the cross section. These hold the stainless steel condenser in place within a body or stem and holds the mp in place, if there is one. I have never needed to replace one but they are small and can be easily lost when dismantling your Vapcap. The package comes with two small and one larger oring. Extra x-orings can be used to partially or fully block a carb hole if you are using your Vapcap with water or prefer the extra air resistance and enjoy mouthpulling. I also like doubling up an oring under a mp. I just find that the extra ring tightens up the condenser and helps the mouthpiece spin easily. Get extra Condenser Orings.
- High Temperature O-rings. These are round tube shaped orings that fit onto all tips, both titanium and stainless steel M tips as well as the Omni condenser/mouthpiece. If you remove these frequently and/or you're not gentle when removing them, they could deform, stretch or break. There are 4 orings on the ti tip and 3 on the SS M tip and they create a friction fit into the body or stem. There are 4 orings on the Omni condenser/mouthpiece assembly. You can get by without a full compliment of orings quite nicely for a long time. I broke an oring and didn't replace it for quite awhile. I have extras, I was just lazy and performance wasn't compromised in any way. Having said that... get extra High Temperature Orings.
- CCD Screens. These are tiny machined screens exclusive to the Vapcap. They come in a stainless steel and a titanium version. They can get lost easily too, but having extra screens is always a good idea. If they get bent, just tap them flat again with a hammer. I like to use two in every tip to make a degummed hemp fiber filter sandwich. I seat one screen in the bottom groove of the chamber, place a filter on top and seat a second screen over it in the middle groove. Do this and you will experience the smoothest, cleanest vapor ever. No coughing ever. No tiny particulates in the airpath or your lungs ever. Plus you get the bonus of a very clean condenser. Get extra CCD screens.
- Degummed Hemp Fiber. Dynavap sells an enormous wad of it for $5 that will last a very very long time. Use it as a bed for hash or other concentrates or make a filter for a screen sandwich.
- Clicking Cap. I like the idea of having an extra cap around. If you somehow lost it or dropped it and accidentally hit it with a hammer, you're done; the Vap won't work. Enjoy peace of mind and get an extra cap.
Other than getting a lighter and a can of butane, these bits should stock a pretty good Vapcap first aid kit. But while you're at it, Dynavap sells a nice selection of lighters, make your arsenal complete and add a lighter....or two.
Enjoy your Vapcap. It will last a lifetime!