John B, I do not know what you mean by a knock off Badger head that is similar to a Pyro Chem. The old style Pressure Release Control Box (that is the one w/the N2 cartridge that leaks, and is remote from the tank) and the Machanical Control Box (that is the one that sits on the valve and is w/o a cartridge) are not UL300 compliant. The A+ control box, part 91-97200 or B120010 is UL 300 compliant and but may not even be in current production. There was some problem w/the rivit coming loose and setting off the fire suppression system. The newest control box is the Universal Control Head, B120099. I have used that head, and I like it, easy to install, easy to service. But it is expensive. That said, the job I will tommorrow will be to replace the old PRCB w/an A+ head. You do know the A+ is to be used only w/ 360* Range Guard links? I think the old kidde style control head can be used on the current production tanks. I find Kiddie/Range Guard/Badger systems to be the most confusing to update, and always call an authorized distributor so I install the right parts to maintain the UL listing.
Currently, Badger distributors are having problems getting parts. Some parts are being backordered as long as 6 weeks, or even more. One distributor I know of now gets some of his nozzles, nozzles seals, and cartridges from Brooks.
Douglas Hicks
General Fire Equipment Co of Eastern Oregon, Inc