Flow Gauge Problem on used MillerMatic 135

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Aloha, all....first post here (after 'Intro' page):Rank Beginner to welding, especially to any electrical-type welding.I went through 11 pages of search results for 'MIG regulator problem' and didn't find this exact problem, so here I am. I was just given a used MillerMatic 135 as partial payment for a job, and I'm having a problem with the flow-gauge.  As soon as I crack the bottle open, even just a bit, the CFH gauge pegs completely, and starts to bleed off excess (I'm assuming) pressure. (see photo) Adjusting the T-handle makes no (zero) difference.  I cranked the bottle valve all the way open to see if anything would change, and it didn't (well, the PSI gauge went up to about 800, but no change on the CFH side).Took the T-handle all the way counter-clockwise until I was afraid it would fall off, with no change.  Tightened it all the way down with no change.  De-pressurized system, took T-handle out, dropped it in the dirt for good measure, wiped off & put back in, no change.Repair? Replace? Give up and cry in the corner? (Tried that already...didn't seem to work.  Willing to give it another chance, though, if you think it would make a difference.) Attached Images
Reply:Hello and welcome.Sounds like the high pressure seat is shot in the flow gauge. This allows the pressure to climb to max as soon as you open the cylinder. You can have the unit rebuilt, but many times it's cheaper to replace it than rebuild one.  Considering your location, I'd 1st look local and see what you can find. Shipping will kill you on a rebuild or an online order most likely.  Most local welding suppliers have some one local they can send a reg to for rebuild, or you can simply buy a new flow meter. Around here, I'd expect to pay $35-50 new depending on what I got off the top of my head. Last time I looked into a rebuild on a  reg, I think the guy I was talking to was about $35, so it would have come out a wash.PM sent..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan