Graham 2.2 damping fluid amount?

I spent a good deal of winter 2004 on this in my system and a friend's similar setup.The amount of fluid drastically affects performance across the board.However I found that with each level change the vta and tracking force could be fine tuned until you get YOUR expectations fulfilled.Start with damping trough only 1/3 full.That's 1/3 the way up the dipstick then add literally one pinhead (yes,that little)in increments until you percieve the most open sound and maximum bass slam without the feeling of the sound being underwater(too much damping).I've confirmed this technique with Bob Graham himself who felt it was correct.Be warned that to do this properly is TIME CONSUMING,however,if you have a high rez setup you will be rewarded.

I couldn't agree with SirS any more. When I first bought mine, I filled it according to the instructions and found it a bit "shy" across the board. Tried a couple of cartridges to the same basic effct. Then I got a wild hair and cleaned out the damping fluid and did about what SirS describes. Well worth the effort as I realize a huge improvement in openness AND slam. Almost like a different arm. I think that some who might discount the 2.2 as less than a world-class arm, ignores, or is not aware of, the differences changes in the fluid makes.

What type of fluid do you use on your Grahm arm or is there another aftermaket fluid that works well. I remember Brooks Berdan telling me several years ago he does not use the Grahm stock fluid but a similar sub that works better.

Wow! I'm glad I asked. Thank you SirSpeedy and 4yanx for your expertise. Your statements make very good sense but little is said about damping and its adjustment in the Graham manual.
42659 - if you find out what that other fluid is that is purported to work better, please let us know. Thanks.

SirSpeedy - another thought.
Once you got your arm dialed in for a particular cartridge, did you have to change the amount of damping fluid if you changed to another arm with a different cartridge attached?