Warning

 

Close
Confirm Action

Are you sure you wish to do this?

Cancel Confirm
AR15.COM
AR Sponsor
2/5/2010 8:39:36 AM EDT
I tried search but didn't stumble upon the correct thread... if it's out there.

I have an old 20 inch Bushmaster with an aluminum free loat tube.  I'd like to remove the tube to check and see if the inside diameter is large enough to allow my silencer to slide down inside....

I've done a cursory look at how the tube is attached and I don't see anything obviuos.  Is there a diagram or instructions on how this comes apart and then back together?
2/5/2010 8:54:16 AM EDT
[#1]
Any idea who makes the free float tube?  Markings on the outside of the tube as to make or model?
2/5/2010 10:33:59 AM EDT
[#2]
Quoted:
Any idea who makes the free float tube?  Markings on the outside of the tube as to make or model?





It's all Bushmaster......

2/5/2010 10:50:22 AM EDT
[#3]
Is it the one about half way down on this page?

If so, it looks like a one piece that uses a strap wrench to remove.  In other words the barrel nut is part of the tube so spinning the entire tube takes the unit off.  Go here and reverse the directions.
2/5/2010 10:58:23 AM EDT
[#4]
Yes, that's the one.

So it looks like I just need a strap wrench and something to hold rest of the rifle while I turn it.....  


Thanks.
2/5/2010 11:03:52 AM EDT
[#5]
Yip, something like a Brownell's clamshell upper clamp.  Some people use the DPMS Panther.  And a good, solid strap wrench over the tube, close to the receiver.

(Just double check before you buy anything. I am going off what you said which sounds right without actually seeing the one you have.)
2/5/2010 11:22:41 AM EDT
[#6]
be aware that the threads my have been coated with red loctite which will make it a royal PITA to remove.

heat, penetrating oil, patience...repeat.
2/5/2010 11:49:10 AM EDT
[#7]
sears carries strap wrenches
2/5/2010 12:47:41 PM EDT
[#8]
Ok, second part question.....

Is it safe to assume the gas port and tube have to come off first as they go through the barrel nut.  My primary purpose is to put a shorter barrel on my rfile (yes, I know it will make it a SBR and will submit the paperwork) that ends under the handgaurd and the silencer will be partialy under the gaurd.  If that's the case I can no longer put it back together as the gas port has to go on after the gaurd.

Is that correct?
2/5/2010 1:24:39 PM EDT
[#9]
Yes that is correct.
You will need to get a FF tube that has a separate barrel nut.
Is it legal to have possession of the barrel before the paperwork is processed?

2/6/2010 6:53:17 AM EDT
[#10]
Quoted:
Yes that is correct.
You will need to get a FF tube that has a separate barrel nut.
Is it legal to have possession of the barrel before the paperwork is processed?



It is legal to have the barrel.  it could be used on a AR pistol.

It is not legal to have a short barrel in the same house (location) as another AR, or lower for that matter.  I do NOT intend have these items at the same time.  I do intend to try and build what I want before I buy the barrel.  If that works then I plan on submitting the proper paperwork to convert my rifle to a SBR.  If I can't get it to work them I'm going the billet lower and upper route and registering that with the ATL.


Thanks all for your input.

AR Sponsor