Step L2: Pivot Pin Installation
Objective: In Step L2 of lower receiver assembly, we will install the pivot pin assembly onto the lower receiver.
Tools Required
1: While not technically required, the tool for installing the pivot pin, detent, and spring on an AR platform is highly recommended. Real Avid makes some of the best tools for the job, and they are an inexpensive solution to a frustrating process. If you choose not to use one of these wonderous tools, buy extra detents (you will probably lose a few) and definitely wear safety glasses (the reason you will need multiple detents is they will come blasting out at you when you slip up during the installation process).
Components Required
| Quantity | Component |
|---|---|
| 1 | Lower Receiver |
| 1 | Pivot Pin |
| 11 | Pivot/Takedown Detent |
| 1 | Pivot/Takedown Spring |
1: See footnote above for the Pivot Pin Installation Tool. If you are using a PPT, you only need one detent for this process. If not, we recommend having spares.
Instructions:
Step L2.0: Remove Existing Pivot Pin (replacement/upgrade only)
WARNING: Wear eye protection. The detent and spring are under pressure and will likely propel out, toward your face.
If you are replacing your existing pivot pin (or need to remove the pivot pin for any other reason), first ensure the firearm is unloaded.
Begin by extending the pivot pin in the open configuration (i.e. to take down the firearm).
Insert a paperclip (or the plunger from a PTT) into the hole in the front face of the pivot pin. Depress the pivot/takedown detent and spring and rotate the pivot pin. You should now be able to slide the pivot pin out of the lower receiver.
Step L2.1: Lubricate the Pivot Detent Cavity
Add one drop of wet lube to the detent cavity using a needle dropper.
Step L2.2: Lubricate the Pivot Pin Shaft
Wipe a light coat of wet lubricant over the shaft of the pivot pin.
Step L2.3: Install Pivot Pin Tool
Follow the tool manufacturer’s instructions and install the tool on the pivot pin lugs of the lower receiver. The visual instructions herein are for the Real Avid AR-15 and AR-10 PPTs (labeled accordingly).
AR-9 and AR-15
AR-10
Step L2.4: Insert the Pivot/Takedown Spring and Detent
Feed the pivot/takedown spring through the hole of the tool and into the cavity of the lower receiver.
The feed the pivot/takedown detent through the hole of the tool and into the cavity of the lower receiver.
Step L2.5: Depress the Detent and Spring
Using the detent plunger supplied with the pivot pin tool, depress the pivot pin detent and spring into the lower receiver
AR-9 and AR-15
AR-10
Step L2.6: Rotate the Pivot Pin Tool
Rotate the installation tool. This will lock the detent and spring into place. Remove the detent plunger.
AR-9 and AR-15
AR-10
Step L2.7: Install the Pivot Pin
Begin to feed the pivot pin into the pivot pin lugs on the right side of the lower receiver. As you displace the pin of the installation tool, the detent and spring will be held in place by the pivot pin. In a swift and smooth motion, insert the pivot pin (while applying opposing pressure to the PPT pin) until the detent engages the pivot pin groove (you will hear a click as the detent falls into the groove). Remove the installation tool.
AR-9 and AR-15
AR-10
Step L2.8: Lubricate the Pivot Pin Groove
Using a needle dropper, add one drop of wet lubricant to the channel of the pivot pin. Cycle the pivot pin open and closed several times to distribute the lubricant.