Ssssss. Sounds of escaping gas. Do you know where most Autococker leaks occur? Can you find, and fix, the leak? Time to talk to the Cocker Doctor!
Q: How do I know if my marker is a "Gas Hog"? What does that mean? If it is, can anything be done to make it more gas efficient?
A: Most markers should get approximately 50 shots per ounce of CO2. The number of shots can be more or less depending on velocity or marker type. On compressed air, most markers should get approximately 800 shots from a 68ci 3000psi bottle, or 1200 shots from a 68ci 5000psi bottle. If your marker gets less, then it could be classified with the gas hogs.
A lot of things can be done to help solve this problem! When the WGP Orracle was first introduced, the input pressure was 250 psi, and it was classified as a gas hog by new owners. When the factory was called, their head repairman told these customers simply to turn up the regulator pressure to 350psi, thus stopping the problem by conserving gas, efficiently.
However, this does not work with all markers. Some markers have a dwell so you can not simply turn up the pressure without turning up the velocity. Dwell is what controls how long the exhaust valve stays open, thus increasing or decreasing the velocity.
Leaky Tiki Q: What are the most common air leaks, and how do I find them and fix them?
A: Most common leaks external to the Autocockers are at the hose, where the hose and regulator come together. Also common are leaks at the bottom line/drop forward. When you put parts together at these places, use Teflon(R) tape. This tape is not a sealant. It is a lubricant that allows you to thread parts together very tightly.
Next most common leak area on the Autocockers is the small hoses on the ram, LPR, and 3-way (electronic or manual). The easiest way to fix this leak is to replace the hose that is leaking.
Now, how to find these leaks. The easiest way to find them, if not by ear, is to spray soapy water or Windex(R) on the leaking area. Look for tiny bubbles. The bubbles will show you exactly where your leak is.
If you have any other leaks, the leak will most likely be internal at the valve guide or exhaust valve. A qualified airtech should help a player identify and repair these leaks.
Jerry "The Doctor" Montgomery answers questions about repairing and maintaining paintball markers. Jerry brings years of paintball experience to APG. He is a premiere airsmith in Southern California, and considered by many to be the foremost 'Cocker Doctor in the country. He also is an expert in the operation of Angels, Shockers, DMX, Intimidators, Indian Creek, Airgun Designs, and more. Jerry makes his home at I&I Sports in Carson, California (www.iiSports.com).
Hope this helps! Keep those questions coming! email co2@actionpursuitgames.com
