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2/14/2013 4:03:25 PM EDT
Thanks in advance.  I will be installing my first gas key this weekend.  During parts inspection, I found that with the gas key in place on the carrier, without the bolts, a .003" feeler gauge will fit between the side of the key and the carrier channel.  There is slight horizontal movement when I press the key to the carrier with one hand and wiggle the key with my other hand.  When I torque the bolts, will this horizontal play be eliminated, or do I need to do something to tighten the fit (like peen the carrier channel) before I install the bolts?
2/15/2013 5:34:43 AM EDT
[#1]
Anyone have the specs for gas key width and carrier key channel width?
2/15/2013 6:59:58 PM EDT
[#2]
Anyone?
2/15/2013 8:08:32 PM EDT
[#3]
You can try stoning the mating surface of the gas key.
Also one of the TMs calls for a thin layer of gasket sealer around the gas port under the key.
Rumor has it that Colt uses Permatex Aviation #3 gasket sealant.

I have used Permatex #2 for other applications and would say that it too would work for this.
2/15/2013 8:39:10 PM EDT
[#4]
Thanks for your input.  I actually have a small bottle of the Permatex #3.  Bought it just to see what it was like; it's like molasses.  I'll probably practice using it on other stuff to see if I can apply it thin enough.  I flattened the bottom of the gas key with 2k grit sandpaper on top of glass.  What about the side to side play?  Do you think I need to peen the carrier to get a tighter fit?

Quoted:
You can try stoning the mating surface of the gas key.
Also one of the TMs calls for a thin layer of gasket sealer around the gas port under the key.
Rumor has it that Colt uses Permatex Aviation #3 gasket sealant.

I have used Permatex #2 for other applications and would say that it too would work for this.


2/16/2013 11:25:52 AM EDT
[#5]
If the #3 is like molasses, should be no prob getting a thin coat using a hobby-type disposable brush.
These brushes are commonly used for spreading epoxy coatings in fishing rod building.

For reference, Permatex #2 handles like caulking.
My idea of a thin coat would be easy to achieve with that as well.

I would torque the gas key down to specification, stake the screws per specification and not worry about it.
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