Foam cannons are an essential tool for any car enthusiast, and the Selkie Foam Cannon is one of the most popular on the market. It’s easy to use and produces a thick, rich foam that will help you clean your car quickly and effectively. However, if you’re not familiar with foam cannons, you may not know how to take it apart to clean it or replace parts. This guide will show you how to do it in a few simple steps.
Before you begin, gather your tools. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. Once you have your tools, follow these steps to disassemble your Selkie Foam Cannon:
1. Remove the nozzle from the cannon. To do this, simply unscrew the nozzle by turning it counterclockwise.
2. Remove the filter from the cannon. To do this, use the flat head screwdriver to pry the filter out of the cannon.
3. Remove the mesh screen from the cannon. To do this, use the pliers to pull the mesh screen out of the cannon.
Gathering Necessary Tools
Before you begin disassembling your Selkie Foam Cannon, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Here’s a comprehensive list of the recommended tools:
Safety Gear:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Gloves | Protect hands from chemicals |
| Safety Glasses | Prevent eye injuries from flying debris |
Disassembly Tools:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Phillips Screwdriver | Unscrew Phillips head screws |
| Flathead Screwdriver | Pry apart components, such as o-rings |
| Allen Key | Remove screws that require an Allen key |
| Needle Nose Pliers | Grip and remove small parts, such as O-rings |
Cleaning and Maintenance Tools:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Soft Cloth | Wipe away dirt and debris |
| Lubricant | Apply to O-rings and moving parts for smooth operation |
| Water Container | For rinsing and cleaning components |
Safety Precautions to Consider
Prior to dismantling your Selkie Foam Cannon, it’s essential to observe certain safety measures to prevent any potential hazards or injuries.
1. Disconnect from Water Source
Before attempting to disassemble the foam cannon, ensure that it is disconnected from the water source. This will prevent any accidental water discharge or spraying during the disassembly process.
2. Wear Protective Gear
When handling the foam cannon components, it’s advisable to wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, safety glasses, and a mask. This is especially important if the foam cannon has been used with harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these may emit harmful fumes or residue. The following table provides a more detailed breakdown of the recommended protective gear:
| Protective Gear | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Gloves | Protect hands from chemicals, abrasions, and sharp edges |
| Safety Glasses | Shield eyes from flying debris, chemicals, and splashes |
| Mask | Prevent inhalation of harmful fumes or particles |
3. Ensure Stable Environment
Select a stable and well-lit environment for disassembling the foam cannon. Avoid working in areas with excessive wind or moisture, as these conditions can make the process more challenging and potentially hazardous.
Disconnecting the Cannon from Water Supply
To safely detach the Selkie Foam Cannon from your pressure washer, follow these steps:
- Shut off the water supply: Turn off the faucet or valve supplying water to the pressure washer.
- Release the pressure: Squeeze the trigger on the pressure washer wand to release any remaining water pressure.
-
Disconnect the Cannon:
Method Description Quick-connect fitting: Locate the quick-connect fitting on the cannon’s end and pull it straight back to disconnect. Ensure to apply firm pressure to release the coupling. Threaded connection: Unscrew the threaded collar connecting the cannon to the pressure washer’s wand by turning it counterclockwise. Use a wrench or pliers for a secure grip. - Inspect the connections: Check the fitting or threads for signs of damage or wear before reattaching the cannon.
Removing the Exterior Shell
1. Remove the Nozzle
Locate the nozzle attached to the end of the foam cannon. Twist the nozzle counterclockwise to remove it.
2. Unscrew the Base
Identify the base of the foam cannon, which connects it to the pressure washer hose. Using an adjustable wrench, loosen and remove the base by turning it counterclockwise.
3. Pull Apart the Body
Gently pull the body of the foam cannon apart from the base. The body should slide off easily, revealing the internal components.
4. Disassemble the Mixing Chamber
Locate the mixing chamber, which is the cylindrical component inside the body of the foam cannon. It consists of:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Mixing Ball | A small, spherical device that creates turbulence and helps mix the soap and water. |
| Mixing Tube | A hollow cylinder that houses the mixing ball and directs the solution to the nozzle. |
| O-Ring | A rubber ring that creates a seal between the mixing chamber components. |
To disassemble the mixing chamber:
- Remove the mixing ball by gently pulling it out of the mixing tube.
- Pull apart the mixing tube from the body of the foam cannon.
- Check and remove any O-rings or seals from the mixing chamber components.
Detaching the Nozzle
The nozzle is the part of the foam cannon that dispenses the foam. To detach the nozzle, first unscrew the locking ring that is located at the base of the nozzle. Once the locking ring is loose, you can pull the nozzle straight out of the foam cannon.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Detaching the Nozzle
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Unscrew the locking ring at the base of the nozzle. |
| 2 | Pull the nozzle straight out of the foam cannon. |
Disassembling the Quick Connect Fitting
The quick connect fitting on a Selkie foam cannon is a small, plastic piece that connects the foam cannon to the pressure washer. It is designed to be quick and easy to remove, so that you can easily clean the foam cannon or switch it out for a different one. To disassemble the quick connect fitting, follow these steps:
1. Locate the quick connect fitting on the foam cannon. It is usually located at the base of the foam cannon, where it connects to the pressure washer hose.
2. Grip the quick connect fitting with one hand and the foam cannon with the other hand.
3. Pull the quick connect fitting straight away from the foam cannon. It should come off easily.
4. If the quick connect fitting is stuck, you can try using a pair of pliers to gently pry it off. Be careful not to damage the fitting.
5. Once the quick connect fitting is removed, you can clean it with soap and water. You can also lubricate the fitting with a silicone-based lubricant to help it move more easily.
6. Insert New Gasket And Grease:
– Inside the quick connect fitting, you’ll find a small, rubber gasket.
– This gasket helps to create a seal between the fitting and the pressure washer hose.
– If the gasket is damaged or worn, it can cause the fitting to leak.
– When you reassemble the fitting, be sure to inspect the gasket and replace it if necessary.
– Once you’ve replaced the gasket, apply a small amount of grease to the inside of the fitting.
– This will help to lubricate the fitting and make it easier to use.
7. To reassemble the quick connect fitting, simply insert the fitting into the foam cannon and push it on until it clicks into place.
Taking Apart the Soap Regulator
1. Unscrew the Soap Regulator Knob
Locate the soap regulator knob on the side of the foam cannon. It is usually a small, round knob with a handle.
2. Remove the O-Ring
Once the knob is removed, you will see a small O-ring inside the soap regulator housing. Carefully remove the O-ring by hand.
3. Remove the Regulator Spring
Underneath the O-ring, you will find a small spring. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently remove the spring.
4. Remove the Regulator Valve
Once the spring is removed, the regulator valve can be pulled out of the housing. It is a small, cylindrical piece with a hole in the center.
5. Rinse and Dry the Valve and Housing
Rinse the regulator valve and the housing with clean water to remove any soap residue. Allow them to dry completely before reassembling.
6. Lubricate the O-Ring and Spring
Apply a small amount of lubrication to the O-ring and spring. This will help to prevent wear and tear and ensure smooth operation.
7. Reassemble the Regulator
Place the spring back into the housing, then slide the regulator valve over the spring. Insert the O-ring into the groove on the regulator valve. Finally, screw the soap regulator knob back into place.
Additional Tips for Taking Apart a Selkie Foam Cannon
- Take pictures of each step during disassembly to facilitate reassembly.
- Use the provided torque wrench to properly tighten the soap regulator knob.
- If you encounter any difficulty, do not hesitate to contact Selkie customer support for assistance.
Separating the Lance and Housing
Once you’ve disassembled the quick-connect fitting, it’s time to separate the lance from the housing. This process requires a bit more force than the previous step.
Step 8: Twist and Pull
Grasp the lance firmly with one hand and the housing with the other. Twist the lance counterclockwise while pulling it away from the housing. The joint should break apart with a little effort. If necessary, use a pair of pliers to gently pry the lance loose.
| Step 8: Twist and Pull |
|---|
| Grasp the lance and housing firmly. |
| Twist the lance counterclockwise while pulling it away from the housing. |
| If necessary, use pliers to pry the lance loose. |
Cleaning and Inspecting Components
Once the cannon is disassembled, it’s important to thoroughly clean all the components to remove any dirt, debris, or residue. This will help to ensure that the cannon functions properly when reassembled. Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean the components, and be sure to rinse them thoroughly before drying them.
Once the components are clean, it’s a good idea to inspect them for any damage or wear and tear. Pay particular attention to the o-rings, as these can easily become damaged and cause leaks. If you find any damaged components, it’s important to replace them before reassembling the cannon.
O-Rings
The O-rings are responsible for creating a seal between the different components of the cannon. They can become damaged over time, so it’s important to inspect them regularly and replace them if necessary. When replacing the O-rings, be sure to use the correct size and type of O-ring for the specific component.
Seals
The seals are also responsible for creating a seal between the different components of the cannon. They can also become damaged over time, so it’s important to inspect them regularly and replace them if necessary. When replacing the seals, be sure to use the correct size and type of seal for the specific component.
Nozzles and Tips
The nozzles and tips are responsible for creating the stream of foam that the cannon produces. They can become clogged over time, so it’s important to clean them regularly. To clean the nozzles and tips, use a soft brush and warm water. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly before drying them.
Reassembling the Cannon
Once you have cleaned and inspected the individual components of your Selkie foam cannon, it’s time to reassemble it.
1. Insert the Ball Bearing into the Nozzle Body
Locate the small ball bearing and insert it into the nozzle body, ensuring it sits securely in place.
2. Insert the Nozzle Body into the Venturi
Align the nozzle body with the venturi and gently slide it in until it sits flush against the inner surface.
3. Screw on the Adjustable Nozzle
Thread the adjustable nozzle onto the nozzle body and hand-tighten it. Use a wrench if necessary to further tighten it.
4. Insert the O-Ring into the Nozzle Body
Take the O-ring and place it around the base of the nozzle body.
5. Screw on the Brass Nozzle
Thread the brass nozzle onto the nozzle body, ensuring that the O-ring is compressed between the two components.
6. Insert the Chemical Tube into the Soap Reservoir
Push the chemical tube into the soap reservoir until it reaches the bottom, ensuring a snug fit.
7. Insert the Soap Reservoir into the Venturi
Align the soap reservoir with the venturi and slide it in until it clicks into place.
8. Screw on the Pressure Washer Connection
Thread the pressure washer connection onto the body of the foam cannon and hand-tighten it. Use a wrench if necessary to further tighten it.
9. Insert the Spray Tip
Insert the spray tip into the top of the adjustable nozzle, making sure it sits securely.
10. Test the Foam Cannon
Attach the foam cannon to your pressure washer, connect it to a water source, and turn it on. Adjust the nozzle as necessary to achieve the desired foam consistency. Inspect for any leaks and ensure the foam cannon is operating correctly before using it with your cleaning solution.
How to Take Apart a Selkie Foam Cannon
Taking apart a Selkie foam cannon is a simple process that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your foam cannon is properly cleaned and maintained, which will help it to perform at its best. You will need the following tools to disassemble the cannon: a Phillips head screwdriver and a pair of pliers.
- Unscrew the top cap of the foam cannon using the Phillips head screwdriver.
- Remove the inner body of the foam cannon from the outer body.
- Use the pliers to remove the nozzle from the inner body.
- Unscrew the filter screen from the bottom of the inner body.
- Rinse all of the parts thoroughly with water.
- Reassemble the foam cannon in the reverse order of disassembly.
People Also Ask About How to Take Apart a Selkie Foam Cannon
How often should I take apart my Selkie foam cannon?
It is recommended to take apart your Selkie foam cannon every 2-3 months for cleaning and maintenance. This will help to prevent the build-up of soap scum and other debris, which can clog the nozzle and cause the foam cannon to malfunction.
What is the best way to clean a Selkie foam cannon?
The best way to clean a Selkie foam cannon is to use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the foam cannon.
Can I use my Selkie foam cannon with other types of soap?
Yes, you can use your Selkie foam cannon with other types of soap. However, it is important to note that some soaps may produce more foam than others. If you are using a new type of soap, it is best to start with a low concentration and gradually increase the amount until you achieve the desired level of foam.
