Rain Bird Xerigation RETRO-1800 retrofit drip insert for 1804/1806/1812 spray bodies — 30 PSI regulator, 200-mesh filter

The Rain Bird Xerigation RETRO-1800 is a drop-in retrofit assembly that converts existing 1804/1806/1812 spray bodies into low-volume drip irrigation zones with built-in 30 PSI regulation and a 200-mesh filter.

If you have conventional pop-up spray heads and want to migrate a zone to water-saving drip without digging up bodies or replacing lateral lines, the RETRO-1800 lets you do it quickly. The internal module installs directly inside Rain Bird 1804, 1806, or 1812 spray head casings to support drip tubing, emitters, or microirrigation fittings while providing pressure regulation and debris protection.

How does the RETRO-1800 make switching to drip irrigation easier?

Instead of removing spray bodies or running new mains, this internal assembly drops into an existing Rain Bird spray head body. It provides the core functions needed for drip: consistent pressure and particle screening, and includes fittings to attach 1/2" drip tubing directly.

• Quick push-in installation into 1804, 1806, or 1812 bodies
• Includes 1/2" FPT x barb elbow and tee for flexible connections
• Converts spray zone to low-volume zone without major excavation

What pressure and filtration does it provide for drip lines?

The RETRO-1800 contains a factory-set pressure regulator that reduces supply pressure to approximately 30 PSI (2.0 bar), a common working pressure for many drip components. A 200-mesh (≈75 micron) screen is built in and accessible to help prevent emitter clogging from debris.

• 30 PSI pressure regulation ideal for most microirrigation emitters
• 200-mesh (75 µm) screen that is easy to access and clean
• Supports flow rates from 0.5 to 6.0 gallons per minute (gpm)

Will this retrofit work with all my Rain Bird pop-up bodies and valves?

The internal assembly is designed specifically for Rain Bird 1804, 1806, and 1812 spray bodies; it will not fit other series. If your retrofit zone provides less than 3 gpm flow, Rain Bird recommends pairing the conversion with a Control Zone Kit or verifying valve sizing to ensure proper operation.

• Compatible with Rain Bird 1804, 1806, 1812 spray bodies only
• For retrofit flows under 3 gpm, consider the Rain Bird Control Zone Kit
• Check existing valve and line sizes to match emitter requirements

What installation and performance details should I plan for?

Installation is straightforward: remove the spray riser, drop the RETRO-1800 internal assembly into the body, and connect drip tubing to the included fittings. The assembly supports 0.5–6 gpm so it suits individual heads converted to supply single or multiple emitters, but aggregate flow and emitter spacing should be planned per zone.

• Drop-in internal assembly replaces spray nozzle and riser components
• Includes both 1/2" FPT x barb elbow and tee for common tubing runs
• Plan emitter count per head to keep flow within 0.5–6 gpm range

Who this product is for: The Rain Bird Xerigation RETRO-1800 is made for landscapers, irrigation contractors, and DIY homeowners who want a fast, low-disruption way to convert existing Rain Bird spray zones into efficient drip or microirrigation zones. It's especially useful where conserving water, targeting root zones, or supplying low-volume plantings is the goal and you already have compatible 1800-series spray bodies in the ground.