Your spray gun has several small components that work together to provide a smooth, controlled application. One of these components is the gland seal. Although it may be a small part of your equipment, keeping it properly adjusted and maintained is important for consistent spray gun performance.
If you notice leaking, changes in solution flow, or your spray gun is not performing the way it normally does, the gland seal is one component worth checking.
What Is a Gland Seal?
The gland seal helps create a seal around the needle as it moves through the spray gun. This helps keep solution where it belongs while allowing the needle to move properly when you pull and release the trigger.
Over time, regular use, cleaning, and adjustments can affect this area of the spray gun. Knowing what to look for can make troubleshooting easier.
Signs to Check Your Gland Seal
Your gland seal may need attention if you notice:
- Solution leaking from around the needle or trigger area
- Solution appearing where it normally should not
- Changes in how smoothly the trigger or needle operates
- Inconsistent spray gun performance
- Leaking that continues after the spray gun has been properly cleaned and reassembled
These symptoms do not automatically mean the gland seal is the problem. Start by inspecting and cleaning your equipment before making adjustments.
Step 1: Clean Your Spray Gun
Before troubleshooting individual components, thoroughly clean your spray gun. Dried solution or buildup can sometimes create symptoms that look like a mechanical problem.
Pay particular attention to the needle, nozzle, and surrounding areas. Once everything is clean, properly reassemble the spray gun and test it again.
Step 2: Inspect the Gland Seal Area
If the problem continues, inspect the gland seal area for visible buildup, improper positioning, wear, or damage.
Small components can have a big impact on your equipment, so avoid forcing or overtightening anything while inspecting your spray gun.
Step 3: Check the Adjustment
A gland seal that is not adjusted correctly can interfere with the movement of the needle or allow solution to leak.
If an adjustment is needed, make small changes rather than immediately tightening the component as much as possible. Overtightening can restrict the needle’s movement, which can create additional performance problems.
After making an adjustment, check that the trigger and needle can still move smoothly.
Step 4: Reassemble and Test
Once the gland seal has been inspected or adjusted, carefully reassemble your spray gun and test its operation.
Look for:
- Smooth trigger movement
- Consistent solution flow
- An even spray pattern
- No solution leaking around the gland seal area
If the original problem is gone, your equipment should be ready to return to normal use.
Step 5: Know When a Part May Need Attention
If cleaning and proper adjustment do not resolve the issue, the gland seal or another component may require further inspection or replacement.
Continuing to spray when your equipment is leaking or performing inconsistently can make troubleshooting more difficult. Addressing changes when you first notice them can help prevent interruptions during appointments.
Help Keep Your Apollo Sunless Equipment Spraying Smoothly
Regular cleaning and equipment checks are some of the easiest ways to catch potential spray gun problems early. Becoming familiar with components like your gland seal can also make it easier to understand what is happening when your equipment does not perform as expected.
If you’re unsure about an adjustment or replacement, contact Apollo Sunless before forcing or overtightening any spray gun components. Proper equipment care can help keep your spray gun delivering smooth, consistent applications appointment after appointment. Check out our YouTube channel for more information on how to troubleshoot your Gland Seal.
