Ratcheting top cover

[DevilDoc]

Just got a JJ Custom top cover for my Vector carbine (semi). I'm trying to get the bolt to lock open, but can't get it to stay. I can get the ratchet to work with the top cover off, just not on the rifle. Any thoughts? Is there something I'm doing wrong?

 

[Vegas SMG]

Welcome to the forum!

The ratcheting top cover design was made for use with the original open bolt, full auto subgun. While it can be used with a semi auto gun, the ratchet paw should be removed to disable it's function. There is no provision for a bolt hold open for either the semi or full auto guns, and that's not why the ratcheting top cover functions as it does.

 

[Centerline]

Robert at RTG parts stocks some already modified units made by J.J. Custom that allow use with semi-autos. I picked up one of these and LOVE it! RTG advised they are black painted, but the J.J. Custom instructional sheet noted they were Parkerized. Regardless, it matched the finish of my Vector/Group Industries SBR perfectly! As with most of the SMG top covers I had to adjust the rear of the top cover slightly (which the J.J. Custom instructions detailed) and it now fits and works great. See link to Roberts/RTG page below. The J.J. Custom units are not cheap, but at least an option for us non-welding semi-auto shooters.

http://www.robertrtg.com/store/pc/UZI-SEMI-AUTO-TOP-COVER-22p2821.htm

 

[DevilDoc]

Thanks Vegas.
Centerline, thats the one I bought. It won't lock the bolt back. The cocking handle will lock back when its off the rifle, just not when its on the rifle.

 

[Centerline]

DevilDoc, since we have the same model, see if this helps... Though there are several "teeth", mine at least will only lock back if I stop at the first one or two - but it holds great there. So... as I pull back tension to the rear, once I hear/feel the first one or two "teeth" catch I let go and she stays locked back just fine no issues. I'll then pull it back another couple of clicks and she releases. It took me a couple of times to get the hang of it on mine, but now that I found that "sweet spot", I have no issues using it to lock back the bolt. Try it slow and steady a few times and see if it catches, to "learn" it. Now I can quickly pull it back and still lock it back in that spot almost everytime. Good luck! See below photo of where mine stops, with it engaged held open....

 

[DevilDoc]

Ok Centerline tried it again, it works! Typical, its usually the nut behind the trigger.

 

[DevilDoc]

Thanks for the help Centerline. Much appreciated.

 

[Centerline]

Thanks for the help Centerline. Much appreciated.

Glad to help out and hear the technique worked for you too. I really enjoy mine and hope you like yours' too. Have a good Holiday weekend!

 

[pdog]

Its also possible your actual lever, the small piece that catches the teeth may be worn. If it is, send me a pm, I have a bunch of extras, will mail you one. I make the top covers with the rail on it for red dot sights and have seen this before on the full auto tops, I completely remove them for the SA guns.

 

[timo]

It has to work like that or the bolt would stay back after every round was fired, it was not designed to work that way originally.