"Originally Posted by Invictus in the X7OG"

This seems to be a reoccurring theme with the new ratchet that is in the Cyclone. This thread will cover a mod that will help to prevent, or deter this from occurring.

The cyclone has seen several different ratchets spawned from Tippmanns attempt to fix the issue of ratchet failure, a failure that typically happens while you're on the field in the heat of a fire fight. Some of you may be asking why the ratchet wears out so quickly. A simple look into the parts thats used in association with it, and a general knowledge of mechanics will quickly pinpoint the problem.

The main reason for ratchet failure is due to the poor design of the Feeder Axle.


Had Tippmann put as much Research & Developement into this part as they had the rest of marker, then they would have redesigned the Feeder Axle to look similiar to this:



The teeth on the unmodified Feeder Axle are quite abrupt and offer very little smooth action, which leads to a chopping effect on the ratchet. To solve this, there are several ways to modify your Feeder Axle so it cycles smoother and with less choppiness.

I personally took a metal hand file and filed down the offending edges, and then went back with an emery board to smooth it down. Others have used dremels and other similiar rotary tools to accomplish this same end product.

Here's one version using a Dremel: DIY: Ratchet Mod.

I certainly hope that this has helped explain why the ratchet breaks so easily, and steps to help prevent it. For those who wish to forgo this mod all together, there are other more costly options available. There are currently 3 aluminum ratchets available on market. They are as follows:

Tech T Vortex Mod
JCS Jet Click
Trinity Ratchet System


Further tips on how to replace the Ratchet can be found here: How to: Replace the stock Ratchet.

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Well said.
Great info

Which aftermarket one do you perfer?

Lapco ratchet
This is my fav. easy to install and holds up very nice!

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Tippmann X7 Phenom Paintball Gun

I just went straight for the upgrade instead of the mod.

The JCS Jetclick has worked great for me. Super easy to install & very stable. No play in the shaft what so ever. Put a set of Wargear softs on there & you're rockin'!!

Thank you for the post and the pictures! That is awesome and just what I needed! I took the axle out and it took me about an hour to sand it down but it works so smooth and helped tremendously!

Tech T or the JCS for me. I have one of both.

I upgraded my X7 with Tech T it works perfect!! I plan on upgrading my 98 next.

I went from Tech T to the F6 Tornado and am completely happy.

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