Installing a Dust Cover

by
posted on May 24, 2011
d10743.jpg

Parts
Dust coverDust-cover hinge pinDust-cover hinge pin snap-ringDust-cover spring

Tools
Needle-nose pliersBrass or plastic hammer

Use the pliers to install the small snap-ring on the hinge pin. Tap it in place with the hammer to ensure it is seated. Place the cover upside down on the receiver, making sure the detent pin faces out, and start the hinge pin from the front end of the receiver. The snap-ring should be at the far end of the pin. Do not push the pin all the way through.

Before installing the dust-cover spring, preload it by turning the long arm a half turn. Hold the spring in the gap between the two hinge-pin housings, maintaining tension as you push the pin all the way through. This is one of those multi-curse steps for me, as I find it difficult to hold the spring under pressure while installing the pin. My future son-in-law was doing the work while I shot photos, and I cautioned him it would take several attempts. The show-off got it together on the first try.

Image
After placing the snap ring on the hinge pin, start the hinge pin through its housing on the dust cover.
Image
Preload the dust-cover spring, hold it in place, and push the hinge pin all the way through to secure the assembly to the receiver.
Image
Shut the dust cover, then use your finger to release the detent pin from inside the receiver to ensure the cover springs open.

Function Check: Make sure the dust cover will close. Then, reach through the front of the receiver with your finger and push the detent pin down to open the cover.

Latest

Fab Defense Ultimag Gen 2
Fab Defense Ultimag Gen 2

First Look: FAB Defense Ultimag G2 Magazine

A "clean sheet" approach to the AR-15 magazine.

The Shooter's Bookshelf: Left Of Bang

It's not enough just to spot trouble before it happens. You also need to explain why it's trouble.

I Carry: Colt Viper .357 Magnum Revolver in a Dark Star Gear Holster

In this week's episode of "I Carry," we have the new Colt Viper .357 Magnum revolver carried in a Dark Star Gear Apollo holster along with a CRKT PSD II pocketknife.

First Look: Kratos Hera Bag Riders

Help stabilize your AR when using shooting bags.

First Look: Silencer Shop CAT SC Suppressor

Designed for use with 9mm handguns. 

Barrett Secures Another Pair of Military Contracts

The M107 and MRADELR rifles continue to be popular. 

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.