Converting a solenoid valve to mechanical actuation

[devilzcall]

Has anyone ever converted a markers solenoid valve to be mechanically actuated?
As in, ditched the spool and directly connect to mechanical bits.

Most mechanical conversions use something like an mvs-2 or smav-3, sometimes even going as far as using one of those to drive a bigger 4 or 5 way valve.
I can't help but wonder why nobody has tried to convert the unwanted solenoid that contains a correctly configured valve, already connected to the markers engine and that is also optimized for low activation force and short stroke length.

[XEMON]

Th vector has an interesting mechanical solenoid ...

You can always remove the ram and put a linked piston in there

[EvilCreature]

I am guessing it has to do with the timing of the marker in question. Most markers either require an electronically controlled "open" and "closed" phase to operate consistently OR a simple on/off to run a mechanical sequence that is started by pressing the trigger and reset by letting go of the trigger. It is almost always easier to just replace the whole assembly if the mechanical conversion is the latter, while almost impossible to make consistent with the former... except the Mechtimidator: https://www.mcarterbrown.com/forum/c...ng-intimidator

[RedLeaderSB]

I was goofing off with a dm5 solenoid.
You have to machine a four hole flange about a cm square.
it’s some small machine work but probably would work as long as you have a compliant mechanism that doesnt put too much force or moment into the shaft.

Alternatively, the dm5 solenoids also have a manual switch. just make the linkage push the switch, done

[Jordan]

rawbutter uses MAC solenoid spools in some of his pneumag builds instead of a conventional actuator valve.

Often, solenoids are not conveniently placed to permit mechanical actuation... and, if the noid is remote mounted, like an Ion (as far as the hose attachment points are concerned) it's easier to simply mount a SMAV in place.

Also, cost can be a consideration - some noids are upwards of $100 or more, a SMAV or MSV is $15-$20.

[rawbutter]

rawbutter uses MAC solenoid spools in some of his pneumag builds instead of a conventional actuator valve.

Yup. They on the cheaper end of solenoid prices, but they're still about $40. And even though it's possible to manually actuate them, they're not build with that in mind, so it's a lot harder to get it to work right. An MSV-2 has that huge lever you can hit with a pin or something. There is no such lever on a MAC solenoid. Instead there's a recessed button, and it's less than 1/8" in diameter.