Removing set screw gas block?

[johnson]

I have a complete BCM upper that I'm trying to change the handguard on but am stuck at removing the gas block. I've put a heat gun to the screws and it doesn't feel like it's giving at all and may strip the screw/allen key if I try any harder. What other methods should I try?

http://www.aww-kittah-aww.com/up/public/192481/IMG_1292.jpg

[Robb Jensen]

Get them really hot with a heatgun or butane torch. If that doesn't seem to work someone may have Rocksett the screws. If so soak in water for 24hrs and then smack the gas block a few times with a brass hammer before attemping to loosen the screws.

[Surf]

Agreed. Heat it with a torch.

[johnson]

Should the screws be easy to turn when I get them hot enough?

It's a 16" bfh middy that i'm swapping for a Centurion lw 16" middy. Changing from DD Lite 12.0 to VTAC TRX 11". When my SBR stamp comes Im ordering a Centurion Arms 12.5" with DD Lite 10.0 and will move the VTAC to the SBR and the 10.0 to the middy, then use the 12.0 for a semi precision build. I know, lots of swapping.

[slomo]

Wouldn't using a penetrating oil such as Kroil be a good idea? Especially after the heating.

[constructor]

Don't heat the screws heat the sides of the gas block where it is thinnest so the diameter of the gas block increases releasing tension on the set screws. Hopefully locktite wasn't used on the screws.

[johnson]

We got it off using a propane torch. It took a few minutes so most likely permanant loctite was used.

[justin_247]

Who is the manufacturer of the BCM gas blocks?

[johnson]

It looked like Midwest Industries.