Maximizing Pan Tension On Your Mp-550: Tips And Tricks

The MB-550 trap comes with approximately 3 lbs of pan tension, but some trappers may want to adjust the trap to a lower tension. This can be done by bending the dog up or down. Bending the dog down will decrease the pan tension, and bending it up will increase the tension. Each 5 degrees the dog is bent down will result in approximately a 0.5-pound decrease in tension. It is recommended to bend the dog from 1/4 to 1/2 from the notch end. Additionally, filing the notch on the dog back to flat and then setting the pan height back to flat can also help increase pan tension.

Bending the dog down

To bend the dog down, you will need to use a tool such as a vice or an anvil to carefully bend the dog. It is important to note that only a small amount of bending is required to adjust the pan tension. A slight bend of around 5 degrees can decrease the pan tension by half a pound. When bending the dog, it is recommended to bend it about a quarter to half an inch from the dog's end.

Additionally, you can also adjust the spring strength and pan level to increase or decrease the pan tension. Checking and adjusting these components can help fine-tune the trap to your desired settings.

It is worth noting that some trappers choose to use the MB 550 traps without any modifications, especially when targeting larger animals such as coyotes. The factory settings on the MB 550 traps are designed to provide a certain level of pan tension, and some trappers find this sufficient for their needs. However, for those who want more control over the pan tension, bending the dog down can be an effective method to achieve the desired results.

Filing the notch on the dog

To get more pan tension on an MP 550, you can try filing the notch on the dog. This involves using a file to carefully adjust the angles on the night-latched dog of the trap. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

First, identify the three key angles on the night-latched dog that will be adjusted. Angle #1 is where the pan drops in and sits. By filing this angle to 90 degrees, you can ensure the pan sits nicely. The amount of material removed coming towards the rear of the dog will determine how high the pan rides.

Next, focus on angle #2, which is the most crucial for adjusting pan tension. Start by filing it flat or at 90 degrees from angle #1. Test the trap by setting and tripping it, and if you are happy with the tension, move on to the next step. If you want to decrease the tension, angle the file slightly downwards towards the end of the dog. This will allow the pan to slide off the dog more easily, reducing the tension.

Finally, adjust the end of the dog, or angle #3. This will determine the pan travel before the trap fires. When testing the trap, you may feel some travel or a "stop" before the trap is triggered. File some material off the end of the dog to get rid of this "stop" and ensure a smooth trigger. Be careful not to remove too much material, as this will result in a hair trigger that goes off too easily.

It is important to work slowly and carefully when filing the notch on the dog, as these adjustments can significantly impact the trap's performance. Always test the trap after making adjustments to ensure it functions as desired. Additionally, you can combine this filing technique with other methods, such as bending the dog or replacing the springs, to further adjust the pan tension on your MP 550.

Checking the spring strength

Inspect the Springs:

Begin by visually inspecting the springs on your MB 550 trap. Look for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Over time, springs can lose their strength due to metal fatigue, so it's important to check for any visible signs of deterioration. Pay close attention to the recoil spring, as it plays a crucial role in the trap's performance.

Test Spring Tension:

To get an accurate measurement of the spring tension, you can use a spring tension tester or a spring scale. These tools will help you quantify the amount of force required to compress the spring. Compare this value with the recommended spring tension for your specific trap model. If the spring tension is significantly lower than the recommended value, you may need to adjust or replace the spring.

Adjust Spring Tension:

If the spring tension is too low, you can adjust it by carefully bending the spring. This process should be done with caution, as bending the spring too much can compromise its integrity. Make small adjustments and test the spring tension frequently to avoid overdoing it. Remember that bending the spring will only increase the tension to a certain extent, and excessive bending may lead to spring failure.

Replace Springs if Necessary:

If the springs on your MB 550 are severely weakened or damaged, it's best to replace them entirely. When replacing springs, ensure you use springs that are specifically designed for your trap model and application. The replacement springs should have the correct dimensions and tension specifications to ensure optimal trap performance.

Regular Maintenance:

To maintain the performance and longevity of your MB 550 trap, it's important to inspect and maintain the springs regularly. Before each trapping season, check the springs for any signs of wear or damage. Additionally, lubricate the springs as recommended by the manufacturer to reduce friction and prolong their lifespan.

By following these steps and paying close attention to spring strength, you can effectively adjust the pan tension on your MB 550 trap. Remember to work carefully and refer to the manufacturer's guidelines whenever adjusting or replacing springs.

Adding a small spring

If you're looking to increase the pan tension on your MP 550, one effective method is to add a small spring. This simple modification can increase the tension from 2.5 pounds to 3 pounds, providing a more secure and reliable trap.

To begin, you'll need to purchase a small spring that is compatible with your MP 550 trap. Ensure that the spring is specifically designed for this model to avoid any issues with fit and performance. Once you have the spring, follow these steps:

• Carefully disassemble the trap to access the internal components.
• Identify the location where you will install the new spring. Typically, it should be positioned near the existing spring to provide additional tension.
• Secure one end of the new spring to the trap, ensuring it is firmly attached.
• Stretch the spring to the required length and secure the other end in place.

By adding this small spring, you will increase the overall tension of the trap, making it more responsive. This modification is a straightforward way to customize your MP 550 without making significant changes to the trap's design.

It is important to note that adjusting pan tension requires careful consideration. Excessive tension can make the trap too sensitive, while too little tension may result in ineffective trapping. Always test your trap after making any adjustments to ensure it functions as desired. Additionally, regular maintenance, such as checking spring strength and pan level, is crucial to the overall performance of your MP 550.

Checking the pan level

Firstly, it is important to understand the components of your trap. The "dog" is a crucial part of the trap mechanism, and adjustments to it will impact the pan tension and level. The "night latch" or "night latched dog" refers to the specific part of the dog that engages with the pan. The "notch" is the groove on the dog where the pan rests.

To check the pan level, begin by examining the pan and the dog. Ensure that the pan is sitting evenly and level with the jaws or slightly below them. If the pan is pointing upwards, it can cause the trap to be overly sensitive and fire unintentionally. Adjust the pan level accordingly.

Next, check the spring strength. Weak springs may result in insufficient pressure to keep the trap set. Replace the springs if necessary to maintain optimal tension.

After adjusting the pan level and ensuring sufficient spring strength, test the trap by setting it off in your hand. You should feel a slight travel or movement before the trap fires. Fine-tune the dog by filing the notch to ensure a smooth and consistent release.

It is important to note that adjustments to the dog will impact multiple aspects of the trap's performance. Bending or filing the dog can affect the pan tension, pan height, and travel before the pan breaks. Therefore, it is recommended to make gradual adjustments and test the trap after each modification.

Additionally, consider deburring the contact point on the underside of the pan where it engages with the dog. This can help improve the smoothness of the release mechanism.

By carefully checking the pan level, adjusting the spring strength, and fine-tuning the dog, you can optimise the performance of your MB 550 trap and ensure it functions as intended.

Frequently asked questions