How tight does that gas cylinder nut have to be?

[CanuckShooter]

Sorry all my M14 books are upstairs, so I probably didnt use the proper terminology, but the thing protruding out below the barrel that you remove to remove your gas cylinder. How tight should that be? Hand tight or should I use my multi tool and snug it up nice? I really don't know the function of this piece aside from removing the cylinder.

Thanks

 

[canucklehead]

Use the multitool, but don't go TOO crazy. It only needs to be tight enough not to rattle loose while shooting. Finger tight MIGHT be enough, but I always make it snug with the tool.

 

[platnumbob]

finger tight is not good enough. last time i shot mine i did not use much pressure when tightening the nut when cleaning beforehand and after shooting i noticed it was almost off, a few more shots it probably would have fallen off. if you use a multi-tool like canuklehead said and give it a good hand crank it should be good to go, dont overtighten either!

 

[schick]

I put min eon quite tight. I even put a little grease on the threads first before I turn it in just to avoid any seizure.

I find it important that I re-tighten the nut the same amount every time I remove it for cleaning/servicing. I was informed that this ensures that the gas system is consistenly lined up every time.