I then decided to try and retrofit the direct plunger system into my clear recon. I like the clear recon as a test subject. It makes it easy to spot troublesome areas when modifying and fitting parts since I can see directly inside when I close the shell.
Well I got it to work. It is very easy and does not ruin the recon shell from using the factory components if you choose to revert back to factory settings.
You will need:
Elite Bolt
Elite Plunger tube
Elite Plunger
Elite spring
Elite catch plate and spring
Optional but recommended:
Dart tooth assembly from retaliator.
Basically you need to do two things. Fit the plunger system and reduce the hole in the back for the smaller diameter spring.
I used a piece of spare kydex. I drilled a hole that is just wide enough for the plunger to fit through, but small enough for the spring to rest on. I also used half of a Sch40 PVC 1/2 inch coupler just as a spring guide so the spring doesnt move around. If you look at the inside of the Elite shell, the area where the spring rests has the surrounding area filled with supports. This is what the coupler is for.
It took me a little bit of analysis of the recon shell and the plunger tube. But basically the plunger tube has to be able to move. If you open the elite retaliator and study the movement of the direct plunger system, the plunger tube moves back about 1/8 of an inch and into the catch plate. The catch plate has a circular cut to allow the plunger tube to retract into it.
So you need to trim these areas of the shell to accommodate this movement. Make sure you do this to the opposite side as well.
This area you need to enlarge the first hole. So trim the circumference larger.
Here is a picture of what I used. I forgot to mention that I swapped in the elite dart tooth assembly. It is a better setup. Similar to the Alpha Trooper and is a perfect drop in upgrade. No modifcation needed. The black plate is what keeps the spring from falling back out into the stock area. I made cuts to accommodate the screw posts and trimmed the inside of the shell for the plate.
Edited by Solscud007, 20 July 2012 - 08:55 AM.
