| Thunder 500 Dummy Launcher Owner's ManualREMOTE RETRIEVER TRAINING LAUNCHER MODEL 500
PLEASE READ & UNDERSTAND THIS OWNERS MANUAL PRIOR TO OPERATION
PRODUCT REGISTRATION AND WARRANTY: Products must be registered at www.thunderequipment.com within 30 days of purchase to ensure updated product information, information on future product upgrades, and proper warranty registration.
Visit our website at www.thunderequipment.com for more information on additional products and accessories or to view our training forum and get user training advice, techniques and tips.
In the event of product questions or concerns please visit our website, email or contact Thunder Equipment prior to returning to your dealer location.
FOR PRODUCT QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS CONTACT:
Thunder Equipment division of Wilson Retrievers, Inc.
4537 Old Pittsburgh Road · Wampum, PA · 16157 Ph: 724-944-2429 · info@thunderequipment.com
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HOW TO OPERATE YOUR NEW LAUNCHER
Complete product manual located at www.thunderequipment.com
NOTE: Launcher requires An LP gas cylinder (MAPP or Propane) and 8AA batteries (not included) to operate
READ AND EXACTLY FOLLOW THE SETUP AND LAUNCHING SEQUENCE -- BEFORE STARTING SEQUENCE BELOW MAKE SURE POWER SWITCH IS OFF
STARTUP AND LAUNCH SEQUENCE
The sequence to fire your launcher works just like the hammer on a gun. Depressing the transmitter button once releases the safety and readies the system to fire (cocking the hammer) and the next press of the transmitter button fires the system (pulling the trigger.) The timing in between the two steps needs no longer than 1-2 seconds under average operating conditions. WARNING: THE LAUNCHER IS IN THE “COCKED” POSITION WHEN YOU HEAR GAS FLOWING. IT SHOULD ONLY BE IN THIS POSITION WHEN YOU ARE PREPARING TO FIRE.
Neutral Position: Small hole between bumper tubes on the rotator is over the combustion port of the launcher
Cocked Position: Tube that holds the bumper is almost directly over the combustion port of the launcher.
1. INSTALL 8-AA BATTERIES (not included): Battery compartment located inside access door
2. MOVE POWER SWITCH ON AND OFF ONE TIME: Launcher may rotate to reestablish timing.
3. INSTALL GAS CYLINDER TANK
Carefully install the LP gas cylinder tank (see Page 4 for more details). Be EXTREMELY CAREFUL not to strip the engagement threads. WARNING: If you hear gas flowing it is likely the launcher is in the cocked position to fire. You must unscrew the gas and proceed to Step #3 to complete the firing process and return the system to neutral / safe position.
NOTE: Gas cylinder heads are not always straight which can cause difficult installation on first use. Once tank begins to screw in about 25% you can pull on the bottom lightly to help straighten the neck alignment and make installation easier.
WARNING: With the launcher in the neutral position (not cocked to fire) there should be NO indication of continuous gas flow after the canister is installed and the valve is opened. If you hear gas continuously flowing, smell gas escaping when system is not activated, or the tank quickly becomes unexplainably very cold and you are sure the system is in the neutral / safe position (not cocked), unscrew immediately and contact the Thunder Equipment.
4. CONNECT TRI-TRONICS OR DOGTRA ELECTRONICS
Systems will operate with most Tri-Tronics or Dogtra remote launch transmitter / receiver systems. Make sure to read a follow manufacturer’s instructions for installing, charging and operating the remote launching system you have chosen. Receiver can be attached to outer housing using Velcro adhesive strips (not included). Insert the plug into the receiver. Turn on the remote system
Note: When using a Dogtra receiver be careful not to let the wire fall inside the machine. If it does you will need to remove the case to retrieve. BE CAREFUL NOT TO STRIP THE SCREW THREADS WHEN REINSTALLING COVER.
5. STABILIZE UNIT AT PROPER LAUNCH ANGLE AND PLACE BUMPERS ON FRONT BUMPER TUBES
Legs unfold from launcher body by unscrewing the thumbscrews on the legs and sliding the foot forward. Place launcher at desired location and angle (normally 30–45 degrees). Legs extend from base position. Make sure system is located in a stable position. Bumpers slide over metal tubes on the front rotator. Caution: (1) NEVER ROTATE BUMPER TUBES BY HAND. This will result in internal damage and is not covered under warranty. (2) Cover all of the tubes with bumpers. Do not shoot repeatedly without bumpers on rotator tubes. NOTE: The short leg pieces have holes that allow for additional ground spikes to be added for stability if needed.
WARNING: Never place any object other than approved Thunder Equipment bumpers in/on rotator tubes. Failure to follow this precaution will severely damage the machine and could lead to property damage, injury, or death.
6. MOVE THE POWER SWITCH TO ON POSITION
WARNING: IF YOU DID NOT PERFORM STEP #1-#2 ABOVE THE SYSTEM MAY ROTATE AND FIRE.
WARNING: NEVER STAND IN FRONT OF MACHINE WHEN THE POWER SWITCH IS ON.
7. LAUNCH SEQUENCE
Move behind machine (a minimum of 20 feet) and depress launch activation button on transmitter. This releases the safety, “cocks the hammer” and readies the launcher to fire. Press the transmitter button again to “pull the trigger” and the bumper will fire. Caution: Never fire launcher if not in the upright, 30–55 degree launch position. Shooting a launcher lying on the ground can lead to fire hazard, personal injury, and damage to the launcher.
A new system may seem a little “tight” or rotate a little slower after ignition. This will not impact performance, system timing, and is normal in new systems. The system is designed to exacting tolerances and can require a break-in period.
STANDARD TRAINING SEQUENCE USING YOUR LAUNCHER
Remember that the procedure closely mimicks what a burd boy would do in the field during a marking setup. When the dog reaches the line and begins to mark a gun station press the transmitter button to “cock” the system. When the dog is ready to mark press the transmitter button again and the bumper will fire. If you have additional launchers in the field for multiple mark setups just press the transmitter button to “cock” while you are moving your dog from one bird to another. When the dog is ready for the mark, press the transmitter button again to fire.
NOTES:
Sometimes the electronic transmitter / receiver may not always get the signal to “cock” the system. This is not a problem because the launcher only requires 1 second to reload. If you press the transmitter button and the system doesn’t fire don’t panic, just press the transmitter button again to “cock” and press again in 1 second.
It is impossible to overload the system or allow it to be cocked too long. The maximum shot distance is after about 3 seconds. Beyond that time there is no additional benefit except in extremely cold conditions. There is nothing wrong with “cocking” the system early but you will not gain any additional launch benefits.
8. RELOAD PROCEDURE
When approaching machine always ensure you do not hear gas flowing in the system. This means the system is in cocked position. You should stand behind the launcher and press the transmitter button again to “pull the trigger” before continuing to reload. Caution: The noise from the shot will be VERY loud. Make sure to take proper precautions. To reload always approach from the rear, turn power switch to OFF position, reload bumpers, and then turn power to ON position. Rotator turns counter-clockwise when firing.
NEVER STAND IN FRONT OF MACHINE WITH POWER SWITCH IS ON.
9. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
FUEL DETAILS
Your Thunder Equipment launcher is powered by LP gas (MAPP or Propane). Bernzomatic, Weller, and Worthington are common brand names. The LP Gas 16 oz. cylinders are 3” in diameter by 10” long. MAPP GAS IS RECOMMENDED TO USE FOR LAUNCHING AND WILL PERFORM IN THE WIDEST RANGE OF TEMPERATURES AND HUMIDITIES. It will provide louder ignition and longer throws! When you get 400 - 600 launches per canister the small additional expense for MAPP gas over propane is nominal. If you are getting inconsistent throws with propane (especially in colder times of the year) switch to MAPP gas. The number of launches will vary from cylinder to cylinder. You can estimate the volume of remaining gas by shaking the cylinder. If there is minimal liquid, install a new cylinder. Dispose of empty cylinders appropriately based on applicable local regulations.
CAUTION: Refilled LP Gas Cylinders:
Thunder Equipment does not endorse or recommend using refilled LP gas cylinders. Always use factory new LP gas cylinders for best performance and safety. Varying pressures of refilled containers yield sporadic and unreliable field results and may result in property damage, injury or death. Thunder Equipment accepts no liability for performance, reliability, or safety using these cylinders.
VARIABLE DISTANCE CONTROL (REMOTE):
There are two ways to vary launches with your system. In combination they can provide infinite variability for shot distance, arc, and sound.
1. SIDE DISTANCE VALVE: The valve located on the side of your machine can be loosened or tightened to produce variable shot distances and volume. It is factory set open to provide the longest, loudest shot. Rotating clockwise (toward OFF position) will reduce the shot distance. Be careful not to force the valve or pry to hard. It should be easy to move with a small regular screwdriver.
2. LENGTH OF TIME LAUNCHER RAMAINS IN “COCKED” POSITION: If you want to vary the height, velocity, or launch noise remotely you only to vary the length of time the launcher is in the cocked position: PUPPY MARK = IMMEDIATE: Depress the transmitter button the cock and depress again immediately. This will result in a shorter, quiter throw
NORMAL MARK = 1-2 SECONDS: Depress the transmitter button the cock, pause 1-2 seconds and depress again. This results in a normal throw. NOTE: If you time the training process this is the average time between a bird thrower cocking the hammer on a training gun and shooting.
EXTENDED MARKING = 3+ SECONDS: Depress the transmitter button, pause 3 seconds and depress again. This results in maximum throw heigth and distance and is can be used for extremely long marks.
BUMPERS
Thunder Equipment launcher bumpers have been designed exclusively for use on the Thunder Equipment Model 5000, Thunder Bird 400, 800, and 1200 launchers, Pro Max 7000 and Max 5000 remote Launchers. USE ONLY FACTORY BUMPERS ON YOUR LAUNCHER.
Extra launcher bumpers and colors are available for purchase. Visit our website for more information www.thunderequipment.com
LAUNCHER SHUT DOWN
1. Switch power button to off position
2. Remove gas cylinder and store in cool, dry place
3. Turn off the Remote Receiver
NEVER STORE OR TRANSPORT YOUR SYSTEM WITH THE GAS CYLINDER INSTALLED. ALWAYS REMOVE AFTER EACH USE.
WHEN THE GAS CYLINDER IS REMOVED IT IS NORMAL FOR A SMALL AMOUNT OF GAS TO BE EXPELLED FROM THE SYSTEM. THIS DEPRESSURIZES THE LAUNCHER FOR TRANSPORT AND STORAGE.
WARNING: NEVER SMOKE OR POSITION LAUNCHER NEAR OPEN FLAME OR HEAT SOURCE
EXTREME COLD WEATHER OPERATION
OPERATING TEMPERATURE RANGE: Your launcher will provide reliable operating performance between 20 degrees F / -7 degrees C and 90 degrees F / 38 degrees C. Outside of this range you may experience inconsistent performance.
REMEMBER: MAPP GAS IS MORE RELIABLE AND WILL PERFORM UNDER A WIDER RANGE OF TEMPERATURES AND HUMIDITIES. IT IS THE ONLY GAS GUARANTEED UNDER WARRANTY TO PROVIDE RELIABLE AND CONSISTENT FIRING.
Optimal performance will be obtained when gas cylinders are stored at indoor temperatures (70 degrees F/ 20 degrees C). If you allow your gas cylinders to fluctuate widely in temperature your system may react erratically. In extreme cold weather it is advisable to keep spare gas cylinders in your vehicle where they will stay warm. After a period of time, if you begin to experience erratic firing, replace the cylinder with a warmer one. The length of time you can use the cylinder is relative to temperature.
WARNING: NEVER STORE YOUR SYSTEM PRESSURIZED. ALWAYS REMOVE GAS CYLINDER AND DEPRESSURIZE FOR EXTENDED STORAGE PERIODS.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
1. DO NOT place in tall dry grass or any area that may be a potential fire hazard. Never use machine for any reason other than its intended purpose.
2. Never smoke within 20 feet of your launcher and keep the launcher away from any spark or flame.
3. Never transport with gas cylinder installed. Always turn off power switch.
4. Stand behind the unit (20 ft. minimum). Never stand directly in front of the machine or look directly in the front of the bumper tubes.
5. DO NOT load or launch any item other than approved bumpers in your Thunder Equipment Launcher. Failure to comply could result in property damage, injury or death and will void manufacturer’s warranty.
6. Keep out of reach of children. Individuals aged 18 years and older should only use product.
7. Store in a safe dry place and remove gas cylinder.
8. Never discharge the launcher while holding or transporting.
9. Make sure the system is properly set up on the ground and stand a minimum of twenty feet behind the system to fire.
10. When the Thunder Equipment launcher fires it makes a loud noise, simulating a shotgun blast. Verify all applicable city and local ordinances prior to using launcher.
Failure to comply with applicable safety precautions could
cause property damage, injury or death.
Thunder Equipment accepts no liability for personal injury, property damage, or death sustained while handling same or damage caused during the operation or transportation of this machine.
FACTORY WARRANTY:
Registration and/or proof of purchase (sales receipt) are required for warranty claims.
Your Thunder Equipment launcher is covered by a One (1) year Limited Warranty on parts and labor. Extended warranty is available online at www.thunderequipment.com. The warranty does not cover physical abuse or damage and is limited to original purchaser (not transferable). The warranty does not cover bumpers, batteries, damage to the internal motor caused by manual turning of the rotator, problems with third party remote electronics (transmitters or receivers), damage due to launching anything other than approved bumpers, damage and cross threading of threads to gas cylinder, and damage to distance valve due to improper manipulation, and is VOID if the launcher has been tampered with in any way or unauthorized service work has been performed. The limited warranty does not cover return shipping costs.
WARRANTY REGISTRATION:
Warranty can be registered online and is essential to tracking warranty claims and extended warranty
SERVICE SUPPORT
In the event that your Thunder Equipment launcher requires service, call and inform us that you wish to return your launcher for repair. Warranty repairs require original purchase receipt, serial number, and corresponding information from product registration. Write a short letter describing the problem you have experienced. Be sure the letter includes your name, address, daytime and evening phone number.
Visit our website at www.thunderequipment.com for details on return address.
On the outside of the box, in large legible lettering, write "RETURN FOR REPAIR". We recommend UPS Ground Service for return shipping.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Your Thunder Equipment Launcher should require virtually no maintenance assuming it is not misused. If you have any questions concerning your launcher, or if you suspect that it is malfunctioning, call or write to us. We will be happy to assist you. Before you call, check the "Troubleshooting Guide". Visit our website at www.thunderequipment.com for additional service information.
Rotator does not turn when I press the Transmit Button.
Is the power switch on the launcher turned on?
Is the Remote Receiver turned on?
Is the Receiver plug from the launcher inserted fully into the receiver?
Are the receiver and transmitter batteries fully charged?
Do the batteries in them need replacing?
Do the batteries in the launcher need replacement?
The Rotator turns but the bumper does not launch.
Is the LP gas cylinder threaded fully into the launcher?
Does the LP gas cylinder have fuel?
Are you using the propane instead of MAPP gas?
Are your AA batteries old and need replaced
Is your gas tank cold from long-term exposure outdoors?
Are you using a heat maintainer for temperatures below 40 degrees?
I have to press the Transmit Button two or more times to get the launcher to rotate or fire.
Do the AA batteries in the launcher need replaced?
Are the transmitter or receiver batteries holding a charge or do they need replaced?
Launcher does not work at long range.
Do the batteries in the remote receiver and / or transmitter need to be charged or replaced?
Are the transmitter or receiver batteries holding a charge or do they need replaced?
Is the receiver positioned toward the top of the machine in launch position?
Are there significant factors (trees, hills, rocks, buildings, etc.) between you and the receiver?
Launcher does not work in cold weather
Are you using propane instead of MAPP gas?
Do the AA launcher batteries need replaced?
Is the gas cold from being stored outside?
Have the batteries been stored in a cold environment for long periods?
Have you let the system remain in the "cocked" position for a few extra seconds?
Bumpers fall off machine during operation
Do the bumpers show visible signs of wear due to use?
Is the machine at an optimal angle? (30 degrees - 45degrees)
When I press the fire button the unit fires but continues to load
Do the AA batteries in the launcher need replaced?
Machine occasionally fires more than one bumper
Are you holding your transmitted button down too long?
Are you depressing your transmitter button multiple times? |
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