WK 180C Gen 2 Upgrade Questions

[Shorinji]

Hey Guys,

Got a few questions about upgrading the reliability on my rifle since apparently it might have to last a lifetime.

If any kind souls here might have some knowledge to share, it'd be greatly appreciated.


-I'm looking at the TNA upgraded self lubricating brass bushing, but I came across a rumor that Kodiak might be releasing their own version. Anybody here anything similar, or think the larger TNA version might be superior to one that's the original smaller size?

-Also looking at their adjustable gas valve. Wondering if anyone has installed this, and if its any more stable than the original one/might not shake loose the same way?

-Any other upgrades/suggestions to upgrade mechanical reliability/durability?


Thanks for reading

 

[Bratwurst]

Brass bushing is kind of a "buy it when yours breaks" thing

Adjustable gas valve, eh the gun runs fine without it but if you want it sure why not

Handguard, replace it with a 2 screw option instead of the 8 screw one it currently uses. Those screws wear out quickly and removing 8 screws to take off your handguard is bloomin annoying

For the most part I'd buy yourself a spare parts kit of sorts: Replacement bolt, firing pin, recoil springs, piston as those are the wear and tear items for 20,000 rounds or more

 

[Unholysavage]

The brass bushing assures that the piston stays centered as it cycles. When the nylon bushing wears out, you get play which can lead to shearing forces. Unless you're one of the 0.01% of people that disassembles literally everything regularly to inspect/clean you may not even notice there's wear until your piston snaps. The nylon bushing in my WK had quite a bit of wear by 300rds, a buddy's looked perfect at 1k. Both of our guns were early gen 1s with pinned gas blocks.
The factory system is overgassed, which adds more wear and tear than is necessary. Adding an adjustable gas system reduces the amount of force that your piston and bolt see. The less force the less chance of breakage. With the side benefit of lower recoil and faster follow-up shots.
Small parts are a good idea for sure.

 

[Shorinji]

Brass bushing is kind of a "buy it when yours breaks" thing

Adjustable gas valve, eh the gun runs fine without it but if you want it sure why not

Handguard, replace it with a 2 screw option instead of the 8 screw one it currently uses. Those screws wear out quickly and removing 8 screws to take off your handguard is bloomin annoying

For the most part I'd buy yourself a spare parts kit of sorts: Replacement bolt, firing pin, recoil springs, piston as those are the wear and tear items for 20,000 rounds or more

Excellent info and suggestions. Thanks very much for the reply, Friend!

 

[Shorinji]

The brass bushing assures that the piston stays centered as it cycles. When the nylon bushing wears out, you get play which can lead to shearing forces. Unless you're one of the 0.01% of people that disassembles literally everything regularly to inspect/clean you may not even notice there's wear until your piston snaps. The nylon bushing in my WK had quite a bit of wear by 300rds, a buddy's looked perfect at 1k. Both of our guns were early gen 1s with pinned gas blocks.
The factory system is overgassed, which adds more wear and tear than is necessary. Adding an adjustable gas system reduces the amount of force that your piston and bolt see. The less force the less chance of breakage. With the side benefit of lower recoil and faster follow-up shots.
Small parts are a good idea for sure.

Thanks for the reply, that's super helpful. Appreciate you sharing your experience.