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5/20/2009 7:26:06 AM EDT
it looks like i might have some blow out around my valve...there is a thin line of what looks like carbon/unburned gunpowder

i was curious how to take it out and clean it, and how often you should clean it

also if there would be any need to maybe buy another one and see if it fits any better

its on a springfield NM

5/20/2009 11:11:07 AM EDT
[#1]
You clean the spindle valve every time you clean the gas system, at least you should and it is simple to do.
Put a screwdriver to the valve slot and push it in and out a few times then rotate the valve back and forth a few times
That's all that is neccessary to break the carbon free.
Don't go spraying brake cleaner or anything else on the valve that can cause problems with the gas cylinder.
Poke aand twist is all it needs.

Also make sure your gas system has not been screw unitized before you do this.
Trying to turn a spindle valve that has a couple of screws turned into it is a recipe for all kinds of fun and anger.
5/20/2009 11:51:32 AM EDT
[#2]
Quoted:
You clean the spindle valve every time you clean the gas system, at least you should and it is simple to do.
Put a screwdriver to the valve slot and push it in and out a few times then rotate the valve back and forth a few times
That's all that is neccessary to break the carbon free.
Don't go spraying brake cleaner or anything else on the valve that can cause problems with the gas cylinder.
Poke aand twist is all it needs.

Also make sure your gas system has not been screw unitized before you do this.
Trying to turn a spindle valve that has a couple of screws turned into it is a recipe for all kinds of fun and anger.


it has a springfield national match assembly does that count as utilized?

i turn it off when i clean my barrel, so hope i didnt mess anything up

5/20/2009 12:06:31 PM EDT
[#3]
Sometimes, on older "unitized" gas systems, they would drill and tap into the spindle in order to use flat-head screws to hold the front band to the back of the gas cylinder.  This isn't a common practice anymore.  Most will TiG weld the band to the gas cylinder nowadays.

When you send bore cleaner down the barrel, it soaks into the spindle enough to do any cleaning necessary, especially when combined with pushing and turning the valve.  Just brush off the carbon with a toothbrush and don't worry about it.
5/20/2009 12:45:34 PM EDT
[#4]
word,  thanks for the info fellas
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