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Straw Rocket Launcher User Guide 45186 V0918
Launcher Assembly
1. Locate the angle plate and slip the slot in the plate over
the brass tube on the launcher base. Be sure the angle
markings are visible from the front of the launcher and
that the angle plate is on the front side of the two angle
brackets of the launcher base (Figure 1).
2. Align the two predrilled holes in the angle plate with
the hole of each angle bracket (Figure 2). From the front,
insert one pan head screw through each hole in the angle
plate and brackets. On the back side of the bracket, start
one knurled nut onto each of the two protruding screws.
Be sure that the smooth portion of each nut is toward the
angle plate. Hand-tighten the nuts to secure the angle
plate to the brackets. Do not overtighten.
3. Insert the spring into the tube support mount on the
launcher base (Figure 3). Place the piston assembly over
the top of the spring with the hollowed-out portion of
the piston in the downward position.
4. Slide the bottom of the launch cylinder assembly over
the piston assembly, spring, and the tube support mount
(Figure 4). Be sure that the launch cylinder is seated
completely onto the tube support mount.
The Straw Rocket Launcher is now ready for use. Be sure to
test your launcher prior to classroom use by following the
Making Straw Rockets instructions within this user guide.
Important Notes
• The Straw Rocket Launcher comes pre-lubricated. To
keep your launcher in optimum working order, use a
small amount of silicone-based lubricant (supplied with
the launcher) to lightly lubricate the O-ring on the piston
assembly at least once a year.
• It is not recommended that the launcher be disassembled
under ordinary circumstances. If disassembly is necessary
(for instance, to lubricate the O-ring), be sure to hold the
launcher base firmly and pull straight up on the clear
launch cylinder. Twisting the launch cylinder back and
forth will stress the brass launch tube, causing premature
failure. Be certain the spring and piston are correctly
positioned when reassembling the launcher.
• Spare parts for the launcher are available through Pitsco
Customer Service; call 800-358-4983 or email us at
Figure 1
Slot
Angle plate
Front
Angle brackets
Launcher base
Brass tube
Figure 2
Pan head
screws
Knurled nuts
Figure 4
Launch cylinder
assembly
Figure 3
Piston assembly
Spring
Tube support
mount
