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cleanout cap cleanup
The threaded cleanout cap on the rear is the most handled piece on your launcher. A little preparation and maintenance will help prevent jams and knuckle busting. For extra strength and safety a schedule 80 cleanout can be used. Often a U bolt is placed through the cap providing a handle for turning. A stick or pushrod can be placed through the U bolt as a lever. Schedule 80 caps provide an extra margin of safety when using these cleanout cap attachments. It is dangerous to mount the trigger or a BBQ igniter into the cleanout cap, see safety page for explanation.
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The cleanout cap is tightened lightly by hand. Over tightened caps usually get jammed, requiring a wrench. Schedule 80 caps have about 2 inches of threads, a little overkill. If all those exposed threads bother you, cut it down with a hack saw. Place a piece of sandpaper on a table face up and grind the cap in a circular motion to even out that funky cut
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Use a sharp knife to remove the last row of threads. Look at the original threads to get an idea of what needs to be done. End the last real thread with a smooth tapered ramp, take your time with the knife. Use some sandpaper and a file to clean up the edge.
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Threads on PVC fitting are often flawed with seams which can interfere with smooth operation. Use a small triangle file to remove the majority of the seam. File lightly to avoid creating any flat spots. Use an X-acto knife to remove the last bit of plastic at the bottom of each groove. Very lightly remove the seam from the peak of each thread with sandpaper.
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The finished cap feels smooth and solid, this cap practically threads itself. The flat back side keeps a rifle launcher comfortable when fired from the shoulder. To prevent jamming, use a bit of clear grease on the threads of the female fitting. If it does jam, use a rubber strap wrench to loosen.
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