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10/19/2011 2:25:01 AM EDT
I'm new to the site and this may be an old question, but I'm upgrading my RRA upper from a carbine length free float tube to a Yankee Hill free float quad.  I've watched a lot of video on YouTube and pretty sure I've got everything to get the job done, but the one thing I can't seem to find out is specifically regarding removal of the original factory installed carbine length tube.  After I get the front sight and gas block and tube removed and the upper on the vice block and ready, do I attempt to back the backing nut off the tube with a spanner wrench before attempting to turn the tube off with a strap wrench or not?  I've heard there's likely to be lots of loctite and I may need to heat it to get the tube to turn, but haven't heard anyone talk about attempting to loosen the backer nut first.

Thanks guys,

Mark.
10/19/2011 3:59:11 AM EDT
[#1]
If it has a lock ring like the YHM, I'd loosen that first.
10/19/2011 4:18:43 AM EDT
[#2]
Well, I guess that's part of the problem...it looks like it may have a lock ring and spin like the new one I have in my hand, but I'm not sure.  In order to loosen the lock ring away from the tube, I'd have to turn it toward the receiver.  If it's not a lock ring, then I'm only trying to tighten an already tight situation.
10/19/2011 4:25:31 AM EDT
[#3]
which model?  better yet, post a pic of yours
10/19/2011 4:35:11 AM EDT
[#4]
Excellent point.  Unfortunately I'm at work right now, but will snap a pic tonight and post it up.
10/19/2011 5:23:42 AM EDT
[#5]
Do a search on "RRA free float tube" and you will find there are several sites that have instructions on removing the tube.
10/24/2011 3:18:48 AM EDT
[#6]
Tried loosening the backer nut with a spanner wrench, but only managed to booger it up.  So I took a strap wrench to the tube and it moved with the backer nut tightened on.  After it budged, then I was able to get the backer nut off the tube and both spun off by hand.  Got pretty lucky.

Unfortunately, now the assembly piece that's tight against the receiver is really tight and I didn't have the wrench for it.  Ordered it from Midway; due in today.  Should be able to finish this project tonght.

Thanks for the help guys,

Mark.
10/24/2011 3:36:50 AM EDT
[#7]
Topic Moved
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